River Falls, WI Normal School Fire, Nov 1897

A SCHOOL BURNED.

RIVER FALLS NORMAL WIPED OUT BY FIRE LAST NIGHT.

IT IS TO BE REBUILT VERY SOON.

A LARGE PORTION OF THE CONTENTS WAS DESTROYED, AND THE LOSS IS ABOUT $75,000, THE INSURANCE BEING TWO-THIRDS OF THAT AMOUNT.

River Falls, Wis., Nov. 30. -- The River Falls state normal school building is a ruin. Fire broke out in the laboratory on the third floor about 8 o'clock last evening and in spite of the efforts of the firemen, the flames forced their was to the attic and in a few moments the whole roof was ablaze. Owing to the height of the structure the firemen worked at a disadvantage and in a short time the main building was burned. The wing containing the engine room was saved. A great portion of the contents was destroyed. A good share of library and pianos and the furniture in the kindergarten were saved. The building and contents were insured for $55,000, and the loss is about $75,000. The building was erected in 1874. Steps have been taken to continue the school in halls and churches. The school has been very prosperous and the attendance up to the capacity of the building. It will be rebuilt without delay.

Daily Telegram Eau Claire Wisconsin 1897-11-30
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Researched and Transcribed by Stu Beitler. Thank you, Stu!