BROCKWAY HOME BURNS TO GROUND

BROCKWAY

Posted By: Judy Kelley (email)
Date: 10/7/2012 at 14:41:52

Fire Originates In Attic Between Two Flues-Furniture Saved-Loss Estimated at $15,000.

A fire of unknown origin completely destroyed the J.M. Brockway residence, about two miles west of Grandview, about nine o'clock last Friday night. When the fire was discovered the entire attic was in flames.

The people of Letts and Grandview were at once notified by neighbors, and after a short time the Grandview chemical apparatus arrived, accompanied by a large crowd of Grandview residents. The fire, however, by this time had gained such headway that nothing could be done to save the house, although the firemen succeded in keeping the flames from spreading to the adjoining buildings.

Practically all of the furniture in the house was removed, although many articles of value were destroyed. The fire was so threatening for a time that one building was completely torn down to save it from the flames and another structure within a few feet of the house kept the attention of the firemen constantly to keep the flames from spreading to it.

The loss is estimated at about $15,000. The Brockway residence was one of the largest and most modern country homes in this section of the state, consisting of about 25 rooms. Had it not been for the efforts of the neighbors and people from Grandview and Letts the loss would have been far greater.

Mr. Brockway declared that he had no idea what caused the fire. When discovered it seemed to be hottest about midway between the two flues which were in use. He said, however, that he had no reason to believe either of the flues was defective. But it is altogether probable that the fire originated in some manner from the flues.

Insurance to a little more than half the amount of the loss was carried. The Brockway family have moved into the small bungalow just across the road, which they will occupy as a temporary residence. Mr. Brockway said that he would rebuild the home, probably late in the summer.

source: clipping from unknown newspaper