Andrew Serra’s Powerful Tale Of 1911’s Deadliest Fire

from Conversations with Rich Bennett · host Rich Bennett / Andrew Serra

Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC Step into history with author and retired firefighter Andrew Serra as he joins Rich Bennett to discuss Hell’s Hundred Acres, his gripping novel about the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire. From first responder insight to untold immigrant stories, Andrew brings the tragedy—and its legacy—to life. This powerful conversation reveals why the fire still matters today and how storytelling can spark change. Guest: Andrew Serra Andrew Serra is a retired New York City firefighter and acclaimed author known for his deeply researched historical novels. With firsthand experience in emergency response and a passion for storytelling, Andrew brings history to life through powerful narratives. His latest novel, Hell’s Hundred Acres, explores the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire and its lasting impact on labor laws and fire safety. Main Topics: · The historical significance of the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire· How the fire influenced labor laws and fire safety regulations in the U.S.· Andrew Serra’s personal connection to the story as a retired NYC firefighter· The process of writing Hell’s Hundred Acres as historical fiction· Challenges of balancing factual accuracy with storytelling· The human impact of the tragedy and the lives behind the statistics· Corruption and political context of early 20th-century New York· Andrew’s previous books and transition from firefighter to author· The emotional toll and therapeutic power of writing about 9/11· Preserving forgotten stories through historical fiction Resources mentioned: Books by Andrew Serra:Hell’s Hundred AcresThe Dead FlorentinesLa Petite ParisienneFinding John (Non-fiction, 9/11 memoir)Zuccotti ParkThe Tenement (E-book short story series)Historical Events & References:1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory FireTammany Hall politicsThe New Deal9/11 terrorist attacksOccupy Wall Street MovementLetters from Iwo Jima (Film)Civil War letter collectionsOrganizations & Institutions:FDNY Ladder Company 20NYU (New York University)Cornell University Labor StudiesNew York City Fire MuseumFreedom Federal Credit Union StudiosHarford County LivingWebsites:AndrewSerra.comEcoCoolHVAC.com – Episode SponsorSend us Fan MailCelebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland!https://bookfairatbelair.org/Eco-Cool HVACYOUR FRIEND IN THE SUMMERS & WINTERS! Heating & Air Conditioning Service and Repair, Furnace & BoilDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTokSponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCastSubscribe by Email

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This episode was published on March 26, 2025.

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