Fire in Beattyville Threatens City Block Before Extinguished

The Beattyville Enterprise. - Thursday, February 17, 1955

Fire of undetermined origin, but believe caused by defective wiring, broke out in a two-story frame building last Friday morning about 8:30am and threatened an entire business block before it was brought under control by the volunteer fire department.

 Fire Chief Wallace Baumgardner said the building in which the fire started housed a grocery store belonging to Buford Bowman, the law office of Col. C.E. Tyree, offices of Dr. A.B. Hoskins, and some apartments; fortunately, the apartments were unoccupied at the time of the fire.

 Damage was estimated at $15,000, but Baumgardner said the blaze could easily have destroyed the other building in the block, which included several stores, a hotel and bank.

 The blaze was well under way when it was reported. The fire fighters using a new truck and a new shipment of hose brought the fire under control within two hours.

 Except for canned goods, the entire stock of the grocery was damaged by fire or water. The contents of Dr. Hoskins office also were damaged extensively. Water damage was considerable to merchandise in an adjoining store owned by J.G. Price.

 Dr A.B. Hoskins, owner of the building said only a small amount of insurance was carried on the structure.