Richardson Leaves Tar on Stove; Returns to Find Kitchen Ablaze
Source: Daily Hampshire Gazette
Goshen, Sept. 25 – The home of Henry Richardson of South St. was burned to the ground about 10 this morning when a fire started in his kitchen from a pail of tar being heated on the stove to waterproof the barn roof.
Finds Kitchen Ablaze
Mr. Richardson, who lives alone, went to the barn to attend to more work and coming back, found the kitchen all ablaze. The Williamsburg Fire Department was called but the fire was so well underway that neither house nor barn could be saved.
A little furniture was saved, also a horse, cow and a pig. It is, however, doubted if any fire department could have done anything as there was no water supply within half a mile except a small brook which was inadequate.
Fire Chief Thomas Barrus estimated the loss of the house as about $5000 and $1000 for the barn. The loss is partially covered by insurance.