The origin of the fire is not definitely…
source date: 1891
availability: public-domain

ed like tinder. But little stock or furniture was saved, and nearly everyone lost their entire wardrobe, escaping in several instances in their night clothes. It is extremely doubtful that the town will be rebuilt immediately, as some of the business men have lost their all. The origin of the fire is not definitely known, but is supposed to have been the work of an incendiary, as a few moments before the alarm was given, an unknown horseman dashed madly through the town, taking the direction toward this city. The fire was first observed in the middle room of the second story of the Baxter house, and as it burst through the roof, the alarm became general. Following is the amount of insurance as near as could be ascertained up to the hour of going to press: E. B. Baxter, $1,250; F. J. Wright, $1,100; Jo Williams, $2,000; J. W. Ripley, $500; H. T. Smith, $2,150; Geo. D. Jones, $800; Wm. Watson, $2,200; Ensinger & Judel, $800; Bell & Stephens, $500. The above companies are represented by Mrs. O. S. Warren, of this city. Max Schutz was insured with E. M. Young for $1,000. The damage to the Mountain Key store has not yet been esti- mated. The loss which was total, will fall heavily upon several who were not insured. No correct estimate of the total loss can be ascer- tained as yet, but it will approximate $100,000.