December 21, 1857

On Sunday, 21st, a fire broke out in Hannibal, in the large three story building of Dr. Anderson, on Main, near the corner of Hill street. The first efforts were to save the large and valuable stocks of goods stored in the houses adjacent to, and in the burning building; and in an astonishingly sort space of time, the entire stocks of Marienthal, Block & Co., clothing merchants, on the corner of Main and Hill streets; of Messrs. Lewis & Co., grocery merchants, occupying the first story of Dr. Anderson’s building; of Mr. R. D. Brewington, wholesale and retail saddle, harness and leather merchant; of Mr. M. Strong, dry goods merchant, and Mr. B. F. McElroy, book and stationery merchant, were removed, and put in a place of safety.