Fire at Patea.

Manawatu Standard, Volume X, Issue 1, 8 May 1885, Page 2

Fire at Patea.

DESTRUCTION OF THE MEAT FREEZING CO.'S PLANT AND BUILDINGS. FURTHER PARTICULARS. Herald Correspondent Patea, May 7. The Patea Meat and Produce Company's Works were burned to the ground this morning. It seems that the fire originated m the tallow room, which is detached from the main building. The sight was something grand, the tallow keeping up a tremendous volume of flame for over three hours. Our small Brigade, under Captain Kells, was soon on the ground, and did some splendid work. They were able to save the f ellmongery building, which was almost attached to the main building, and it seemed almost v miracle how it was done. The wind was favorable, and there was a plentiful supply of water. I do not know yet what insurance there is on the building. The origin of the fire is a mystery, as there has not been a fire m the building where it originated for days past. The general opinion is that it is the work of an incendiary, but for, what purpose it is hard to fathom. It wjll be a great loss to the district.. Everything seems to retard the progress of the concern. Just as the company is clear of the annoyance of a vexatious law suit, they are into another trouble. It is hoped that they will soon be again m working order, for without the company it would have boen, during the last twelve months rather up-hill work for the settlers m this district.