OSHKOSH NORMAL IS PARTIALLY BURNED

Loss of $160,000 Sustained in Fire of Unknown Origin – Prof. H.R. FLING Hurt

Oshkosh, March 22. – The fire at the Oshkosh normal was under control this afternoon after it had completely destroyed the central portion of the school, built in 1869 and opened in 1871, and three wings, all of which were practically one building. The loss is estimated at between $150,000 and $160,000, with insurance in the state insurance department of about $36,000.

No definite cause has been assigned for the fire. It is believed it had burned for some time before it was discovered.

The industrial building was not touched and the gymnasium was saved. The total valuation of the normal school plant, including buildings and land, is $500,000.

PROF. H.R. FLING, teacher of biology, sustained a dislocated shoulder in leaping from a window of the library on the second floor. He, with others, was trying to save some books and had to jump for safety. Blankets were held to catch him, but they were torn by the force of the fall and he dropped heavily to the ground.

Arrangements were completed tonight to start classes tomorrow in local schools and churches for the 600 students. Some of the buildings that will be used for classes are the high school, Plymouth Congregational church, First Congregational church, First Presbyterian church, Christ Lutheran church and the First Baptist temple.

The state board of regents is expected to arrive here tomorrow for an investigation.

The Duluth News Tribune, Duluth, MN 23 March 1916

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NORMAL SCHOOL FIRE

Oshkosh, Wis., March 22. – Three buildings of the state normal school here were burned this morning. One teacher was injured. The loss is placed at $150,000.

Aberdeen Daily News, Aberdeen, SD 22 March 1916
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Transcribed by Tim Taugher. Thanks, Tim!