Fire at Levin.

Manawatu Herald, 14 April 1904, Page 2

Fire at Levin.

At 4.30 on Tuesday fire broke out in the premises of Mr Hall, draper, Oxford-street, Levin. The newly-formed fire brigade was quickly on the spot with their manual engine, but owing to something jambing in one of the pipes, the engine was practically useless, and the fire had almost to be left to burn itself out. It quickly spread, and before its progress stopped it had completely destroyed the premises of Mr J, B, Clarkson (Rudge-Whit-worth cycle depot), Mr Phillip’s office (native interpreter), Mr J. Smith's livery stables, Mr Jones’ plumbing works, a saddler’s shop and confectioner’s premises (names unascertainable), and Mr C. Newman’s butchery. All these were burnt to the ground, and had it not been for the unfortunate accident t(T the engine the fire would have been confined to the draper’s shop, in which it originated. Mr Clarkson’s heavy stock was mostly removed. It was] insured for £SO, and as far as can be ascertained the loss will be about £4O or £SO. Arrangements have been made for carrying on the business in premises immediately opposite the old shop. There was an insurance of £4OO on Mr Hall’s drapery stock. Mr Smith, formerly of Smith and Hall, Palmerston, saved all his horses and vehicles. Messrs Clarkson and Hall occupied the one building, which was insured for £l5O.