Jaffrey, NH Monadnock Bank Fire, Mar 1875

From the beginning, in 1851, the office was in Mr. Upton's house until their first building was completed, in November, 1873. This edifice cost about $15,000, was conveniently arranged, well built, and nicely finished. It was burned March 21, 1875, together with the Granite State hotel. The second building was similar to the first, built on the same foundations, and cost about $11,000, over and above what was saved of the ruins of the other. This, too, was burned, March 23, 1877, the fire doubtless being the work of an incendiary. Each building was insured for $8,000.

After being thus tried by fire, it was decided to build only large enough for the business of the bank. Accordingly the old site, with the brick walls still standing and the nice hammered stone-work remaining uninjured, was sold to Mr. Benj. Pierce, who erected the present Granite State hotel thereon. The former hotel site was secured by the bank, and a building erected second to none in the state in architectural beauty, convenience of arrangement, and elegance of finish.

History of the Town of Jaffrey, New Hampshire, 1881, pages 504-505
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Transcribed by Linda Horton. Thank you, Linda!