After the fire was extinguished this popular dining spot located at 1170 Indianapolis Boulevard was completely destroyed by the blast and in suing inferno. Dozens of people were injured along with three fatalities. Damage to the building and its contents were estimated at $125,000.

Also lost in the flames was a worldwide whiskey collection, which Phil Smidt had collected over the years from every country in the world. The restaurants regular inventory of liquors and whiskies valued at some $10,000 was also considered a total loss.

Had this unfortunate event in time occured just an hour or so later, scores more could have been injured and fatally wounded as the restaurant's banquet halls would have been filled with several hundred guests, attending various banquets. The Northern Indiana Industrial Nurses Association, The Tri-City Personnel Managers Association and The American Legion all had dinners scheduled for later that evening.

Through the night a crowd of around 5,000 curious onlookers watched as fire fighting and rescue efforts were underway. Police reported automobiles were parked up and down Indianapolis Boulevard for about a mile.

Since then the restaurant has rebuilt at a new location - 1205 Calumet Avenue and still remains a popular place for fine dining. Visit their website at PhilSmidts.com

Photos Top row: Height of the blaze, remaining pictures show the destruction's aftermath.