The Burning of Chelsea by Walter Merriam Pratt

The work of relief started almost before the flames of the first section destroyed had died away. Acting Governor Draper, who had arrived in Chelsea about the middle of the afternoon, at once realized the immediate need of assistance, turned about and had his chauffeur take him speedily to his office at the State House. Here he got into communication with the City Hall, and a meeting was arranged at the mayor's office. Mayor Hibbard, who was at his summer home in Provincetown, arrived about six o'clock. The first move was to get hospital service to the city and all available doctors, nurses, and ambulances were sent to Chelsea.

Messengers were despatched to bring many prominent citizens to a citizens' meeting, and among the first to arrive was Major Henry L. Higginson of the firm of Lee, Higginson & Company, who at once offered all immediate financial assistance necessary. Provisions for the refugees were the first necessity, and the authorities in Boston and Chelsea combined to secure them. Bakers, provision dealers, and restaurant keepers readily volunteered to furnish them, and what is more important, had them ready and delivered in Chelsea by midnight.