FIRE IN ROYAL TERRACE

Otago Witness, Issue 3510, 21 June 1921, Page 26

FIRE IN ROYAL TERRACE

An old ten-roomed wooden house, situated in Royal terrace, caught fire shortly after 2 o’clock on Friday morning, and ianned by the heavy northern gale which was blowing, the flames quickly wrapped the building in a destroying embrace, and left but a few blackened studs to mark their onrush. The house was occupied by Mr M. W. Wheatland, grocer, of King street, and his family. They had to escape in their night attire, and were unable to save any personal effects. The strong wind carried the flames and flying sparks in the direction of the house adjoining, occupied by Mr F. Duncan, solicitor, and the City Brigade exerted its efforts to saving this property. They wore successful in this, due to the capable manner in which the men stuck to their task. The damage to Mr I) uncan’s houso was confined to broken windows and scorching of the pa nt, caused by the heat from the burning l building. ’I he destroyed building was owned by Airs Margaret M’Pherson, and was insured for £7OO with the Atlas Assurance Company, while the fqjgiituro was insured for £4OO in the same office. The cause of the fire is a mystery.