FIRE IN BLENHEIM.

Colonist, Volume XXX, Issue 5024, 6 October 1887, Page 2 (Supplement)

FIRE IN BLENHEIM.

INSURANCES, £8,150. [By Electric Telegraph.] [Per United Press Association.] Blenheim, September 15. Shortly after one o'clock this morning a fire broke out id High street, completely destroying the wine and spirit store occupied by Ealph Andrews, and the large naw warehouse and stablea of Holmes and Bell. It is impossible to say where the fire originated, as it had, when first noticed, a good hold of both premises. The fire spread bo rapidly over Holme 3 and Bell's that the efforts of the Biigade, who had the steam fire engine at work, were powerless to check it. The brick building of Bogers & Barleyman on the west aide stopped the progress of the flames in that direction, and the Brigade prevented the fire spreading on the east side to the Marlborough Hotel, which was much scorched, as were also one or two buildings on the north side of High street. Litchfield's sample rooms in Wynen street were in great danger, and were saved with difficulty. Had the fire obtained a hold here, the whole of this splendid block of buildings, including the Bank of New Zoaland and the Masonic Hotel, would bave stood a poor show. Very little of Holmes and Bell's large stock was saved. Andrews lost everything. Fortunately there was no wind. Andrews was at his store till 11.30 last night, and detected no signs of fire then. iMr H. M. Lyon, Secretary to the Underwriters Association, is at present at Blenheim. The insurances are:— Holmes—Building: National £50/ Union £150. Stock: National £100. Holmes & Bell—Store; Union £250, South British £500, United £250, Colonial £400. Stock: Union £500, Standard £500, Norwioh Union £250, Phoenix £1200, Colonial £750, Equitable £500, New Zealand £750, Victoria £100, Liverpool London and Globe £500, and Northern £500. Holmes and Bell are unable to Btate whal is their loss over and above insurances, bul think £2000 to £3000, es they had a veij large stock, and recent shipments of tea? woo!packs, &c. Some goods in bond wen saved, but they cannot ascertain their value A great deal, however, is much damaged.