Bush Fires at Levin.

Manawatu Herald, 24 February 1894, Page 3

Bush Fires at Levin.

— . . » . — Yesterday (Thursday) it was Levin's turn to undergo the ordeal of fire and smoke, and as the logs ignited and dry trees showered down their fiery sparks the residents got alarmed. The fire crept on unpleasantly toward the town, and it soon became evident that a strong force would be requisite to keep the lire in check. Those whose dwellings were near the bush were powerless to keep the enemy awayj for the fierce heat made work impossible. If a bucket of water was thrown over a stump just igniting, the same process was necessary over another close by, and rotten wood being like tinder to a spark, soon made the work of carrying water u.-elws. By 1 o'clock the township was thoroughly alarmed and business* was Husnentied mo that all cou'd do the best they could to Have property. Mr Webber's house was in great danger, and its wilva'ion may be said to be due to the efforts of Mr Smithson. The fire crept on to Mr Ryder's boot shop. Then the wind changed and spread the lire in another direction, and endangered the business places from Mr Smithson's bakery to Mr Gardener's shop. At night the wind changed again and with the fire all round the heat wrh almost unbearable. The Hinoke wax blinding, and the residents did not know what to do with themselves. The night passed wearily away, some of the residents keeping watch.— Fitrwr.