Camden, ME Hotel Fire, Nov 1917

"THE ELMS," HISTORIC HOTEL AT CAMDEN, ME., DESTROYED BY FIRE.

Camden, Me., Nov. 13. -- Fire which started round the kitchen chimney yesterday morning, caused the destruction of "The Elms," Camden's historic hotel.
MISS KATE AHERN, a waitress, first saw the fire and aroused the owner, JAMES A. DUANE. Seizing a few articles of clothing, MR. DUANE notified the guests, dressing as he ran through the corridors. Help was summoned from Rockport and Rockland, but was not needed, as the slate roof and absence of wind kept the fire from spreading.
The hotel had been renovated at a cost of $9,000 within two years and citizens subscribed to have it painted this summer. The building and contents were valued at about $22,000; insured for $15,000.
Among the guests were TIMOTHY J. CARROLL of Peabody, Mass., MR. and MRS. DONOHUE of Providence, JOSEPH E. BUTLER of Waterville, and J. H. McDONALD of Camden.
A portion of the hotel was built in 1796 and the first meeting of Amity lodge, A.F. and A.M., was held there in 1799. During the war of 1812 it was known as the Megunticook house. It had sheltered many distinguished guests.

Lowell Sun Massachusetts 1917-11-13
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Researched and Transcribed by Stu Beitler. Thank you, Stu!