Fire Breaks Out In Arbor Vitae
Source: Minocqua Times, March 1, 1929
Fire last Thursday afternoon destroyed two buildings at Mrs. Zefrina Grenier's Arbor Vitae Inn in the village of Arbor Vitae.
The fire broke out in a one and one-half story dwelling occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Otto Mielke. It is beleived that it started from a defective chimney.
The Minocqua Fire department was notified and the five-mile run was made in record time, the department arriving in Arbor Vitae before the fire had broken through the roof of the dwelling. The local firemen were handicapped in fighting the fire, however, as a source of water supply for the truck could not be reached. Chemicals were applied to the flames but without effect.
After the flames had died down and from all appearance, adjoining property was out of danger, the local fire department returned to Minocqua. Other volunteers who had gone to offer their assistance also left and soon after they departed another two story building burst into flames. It is believed that embers from the first fire were blown into the basement of the building as a stiff wind was blowing and buildings were directly in its path. Firemen again found themselves helpless in fighting the flames and the second building also burned to the ground.
Insurance to the amount of $1500 was carried on the Mielke furniture. While some of his belongings were saved, Mr. Mielke states that the insurance does not cover the loss, as much of his furniture and personal effects were stored in the upper rooms and could not be reached.
The loss of the buildings probably amounts to approximately $4000 and it is believed that the property is covered by insurance. Mrs. Grenier spending the winter in Milwaukee and definete information as to the actual loss and the amount of insurance carried could not be obtained.
