DRAPERY STORE BURNED AT PUTARARU

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 268, 2 February 1928, Page 15

DRAPERY STORE BURNED AT PUTARARU

HEAVY LOSS INVOLVED ONLY A BUCKET BRIGADE (From Our Own Correspondent) PUTARURU, To-day. A spectacular fire involving losses estimated at £B,OOO occurred last night shortly after midnight, when McDermott Bros.’ drapery shop, situated in the main street of Putaruru, was completely gutted. The building was of wood and iron, and approximately 33 feet by 76 feet, and had only been erected a few years. The absence of a water supply prevented anytrhing of value being saved, but fortunately brick walls on either side prevented much greater destruction. A bucket brigade did good work and saved the living quarters at the rear of Miller’s billiard saloon. The damage to McDermott: Bros’, is estimated at close on £B,OOO, while the total insurances with the South British are approximately £6,000. Miller’s loss is estimated at £2OO and is covered by insurance. Other losses to adjoining owners caused through heat ancj water are estimated at £ 50. The cause of the outbreak is unknown, though the fire apparently started in the women’s department. The premises were all in order when visited by Mr. McDermott and a friend about two hours previously.