Established by the United States government in June 1861, the U.S. Sanitary Commission provided soldiers with food and medical care. Over 4,000 chapters were created, including one in Elmira, to collect supplies. Fairs were held to raise money. From March 14 to 18, 1864, Elmira hosted the Southern Tier Sanitary Fair at the newly constructed Second Presbyterian Church. Like other sanitary fairs, there were items for sale, exhibits, refreshment stands, a restaurant and evening entertainments. Though over $12,000 was raised, the fair ended in tragedy. On the evening of March 18, decorations caught fire. The church burned down and two men died.