The Lancaster Gazette

The Late Steamboat Disaster.

Madison, Ia., April 23.

By the officers of the Steamer Wisconsin, and an eye witness to the horrible scene, we are enabled to glean the following facts in connection with the burning of the Belle of the West. About half past 12 o'clock last night, the Steamer was discovered to be on fire in the hold. She was immediately run ashore, near Warsaw, and made fast and stage planks run out. Up to this moment the flames had not burst forth. The after hatch was then raised for the purpose of getting water into the hold. Such was the pressure of the flames that all efforts to quell them were utterly fruitless, and in a few moments the bow was wreathed in flames.

The total number of passengers on board is estimated at 400, amongst whom were two California companies and about thirty families removing west. From the register, it is ascertained that over sixty have perished and the probability is that many more have been lost, whose names were not enrolled.

Such was the progress of the fire that, before the passengers could get out of their state rooms after the first alarm of fire, all communication between the after cabin and forward part of the boat was cut off and all of either were compelled to jump overboard or perish in the flames.

The scene is described as most heart-rending. At the time of the falling of the Ladies' cabin, gentlemen standing with children in their arms between the chimneys were burned to death.