Burning of Cork: Family recalls night that inspired generations of firefighters

As well as his great-grandfather and grandfather, Martin Higgins’ father, brother and son all joined the fire department in Cork.

Fifth-generation firefighter Kevin Higgins next to a 1952 Dennis wheeled escape at Cork Fire Station. Kevin is the great great grandson of firefighter Patrick Higgins who was second in command during the burning of Cork in December 1920. Picture: Dan Linehan

On the night of December 11, 1920, a father and son were among the group of firefighters tackling the overwhelming blaze that swept across the city of Cork.

One hundred years on, several generations of that same family have followed in their footsteps, serving in the fire brigades of Cork city and county.