The Great Blizzard of 1888: How a Department Store Buyer Turned a Profit on Snow Shovels
In a twist of fate, a buyer for the department store Edward Ridley & Sons in New York City, John J. Meisinger, made a seemingly foolish purchase on March 1, 1888. He bought a carload of 3,000 unclaimed wooden snow shovels for $1,200, just as winter was coming to an end. Many laughed at his decision, but little did they know what was about to unfold.
Days later, a historic blizzard hit the east coast, bringing with it great drifts of snow up to 15 feet high. The Great Blizzard of 1888 claimed nearly 400 lives, with 200 of those in New York City alone. Communication, commerce, and travel were all severely disrupted for days.
Despite the chaos, Mr. Meisinger’s gamble paid off. Ridley’s was the only store with a large stock of snow shovels, and they sold out within a day. Mr. Meisinger had the last laugh, turning a profit on his unexpected purchase.
The story of the Great Blizzard raises questions about blizzards, snowstorms, and nor’easters. The National Weather Service defines a blizzard based on specific criteria, including snowfall, wind speed, and visibility. True blizzards are rare occurrences, but when they hit, they can be devastating.
In Canada, the criteria for a blizzard are slightly different, depending on the region. Snow doesn’t have to be falling from the sky for a blizzard to occur; ground blizzards can form when wind picks up snow from a previous storm.
Understanding how blizzards form and how to stay safe during one is crucial. The best way to stay safe during a blizzard is to stay indoors and be prepared with an emergency kit. If trapped in a car during a storm, it’s important to avoid venturing out and to be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The word “blizzard” has an interesting origin, with various theories about its etymology. Regardless of its origins, the impact of a blizzard is undeniable, and being prepared and informed is key to staying safe during these extreme weather events.
