Panic in the Court of King’s Bench, Dublin, as a neighbouring chimney catches fire, sending a thick cloud of smoke billowing into the courtroom. The incident caused widespread alarm among those present, as smoke quickly filled the chamber and spectators scrambled to escape, fearing a greater conflagration.
While the fire itself remained contained, the chaos it triggered highlights both the crowded conditions of courtrooms at the time and the ever-present fire hazards in 18th- and 19th-century urban Dublin. No serious injuries were reported, but the scene was described as one of confusion and near-stampede.