Atlanta, GA Simon's Store Fire, Mar 1910

MIDNIGHT FIRE ON WHITEWALL

Simon’s Store Damaged to the Extent of $20,000.

Fire shortly before midnight last night broke out in Simon’s store, the ladies’ and children’s furnishers, at 49 Whitewall street, in the very heart of the shopping district, and did damage to the extent of between $15,000 and $20,000 before the situation was under control by the fire department. The establishment is a four-story brick building, with a basement, and held the new stock of Easter goods.

The fire originated in the basement in the back part and had gained considerable headway before being discovered by a patrolman passing on the street. Smoke gained access three floors through the elevator shaft, although the fire proper was confined to the basement.

Although smoke poured in dense volumes from windows on each floor, at no time were adjoining buildings of J. P. Allen & Company and Davis & Freeman threatened.

In the basement was stored a reserve stock of hats, underwear and suits, and all were badly burned.

Officials of the establishment could give no definite information after the fire as to the extent of damage until the stock is gone over thoroughly, but it was stated that fully three-fourths of the goods were damaged. The loss is covered by insurance.

The firemen fought the blaze fiercely for the better part of an hour, a great throng of people witnessing the spectacle.

The Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta, GA 23 Mar 1910
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Transcribed by Jenni Lanham.