The Knickerbocker Snowstorm (Images of America (Arcadia Publishing))

On the evening of January 28, 1922, several hundred people fought their way through the greatest snowstorm in Washingtons history to see a show at the Knickerbocker Theater, the citys largest and most modern moving picture theater of the time. Unbeknownst to the theater patrons, the Knickerbocker Theaters flat roof was tremendously burdened by the weight of the snow. During the shows intermission, the snow-covered roof crashed down upon the crowd. As the roof fell, it collapsed the theaters balcony and pulled down portions of the surrounding brick walls, killing 98 people and injuring 133. Some of Washingtons prominent politicians and business owners were among the casualties. The disaster ranks as one of Washingtons worst in history, and the snowstorm continues to hold the record for Washingtons single greatest snowfall.