On Wednesday, April 18, 1906, an earthquake, measuring 7.8 on the Richter magnitude scale and lasting 48 seconds, erupted along the San Andreas fault with a flash point originating in the San Francisco Bay area. The force of the earthquake tore apart buildings and roads, causing water and gas mains to twist and break. The resulting effects of the quake ignited a series of fires throughout the city. In this article, the author states that the combined San Francisco earthquake and fires were described as one of the worst disasters of the twentieth century. Furthermore, the letter, featured in this article, expressed concern over food rations received by Mrs. Larsen of Filbert Street, who was living at the camp with her family of seven. The single-page description provides insight into life in the refugee camps. It also prompts questions about how the camps cooperated with local organizations and how the refugees received assistance. (Contains 10 notes.)