The fire at Ferguson’s Chocolate Factory occurred on the morning of January 9, 1817, and was among the most serious incidents of that winter in Halifax. The blaze consumed the chocolate “manufactory & dwelling house” of John Ferguson, a member of the Sun Fire Company. The building was situated at the southeast corner of Granville and Sackville Streets.
The fire was discovered between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., originating at the rear of the premises. Although the first engine arrived promptly, delays in establishing a reliable water supply allowed the interior of the building to become fully involved. The fire destroyed the factory, Ferguson’s residence, and a stable. In an effort to contain the spread, a neighboring stable owned by Mr. Loveland was pulled down. Mr. Tierney’s blacksmith shop on Hollis Street also suffered damage, described at the time as “somewhat deranged.” Nonetheless, nearly all of the household furniture and some factory inventory were successfully salvaged.
This fire marked the third significant blaze of that winter season and prompted a response from both the fire service and military. The same day, new general orders were issued for the conduct of garrison troops at fires, and a cache of one hundred buckets was placed near guardrooms for rapid deployment during such emergencies.
John Ferguson, the factory owner, had joined the Sun Fire Company in 1812. He was born around 1790 in Halifax, married Frances Manning in 1813, and died in 1855.