Wolfeboro Historical Society
Photograph Archive
Fire and Town Services
Goodwin Block Fire, 1899


At 9:00 in the evening, Saturday, May 28, 1899, the largest fire in Wolfeboro history broke out in the Mount Washington Wharf Building. It began in a Waiting Room used by the Boston and Maine Railroad, and quickly engulfed the building. The exact cause is unknown. Winds off the lake quickly spread embers everywhere. Even though fire fighting equipment from Eagle Hose Company No. 3 and Rollins Hose Company No. 1 were quickly on the scene, massive destruction resulted. It is noted that Wolfeboro had a hydrant system, operation had begun in 1889, and the downtown hydrants were fully operational during the fire. As the fire spread to the Goodwin Block, efforts had to be concentrated on saving the Peavey Block. Many residents were involved. Nearby roofs were set on fire, some several times, and were protected by residents and helpers. The Bank Block across South Main St. had serious roof damage, but was saved by Brewster Academy students, mostly with small hoses. The fire destroyed the Goodwin Block and several buildings on the Wharf. The former elegant 3-story Goodwin Block was replaced the same year by a one story simple wood clapboard structure. Unfortunately, the new building was destroyed by fire on Oct. 13,1908. Rebuilt again in 1909, the building still stands today. Most of the photos in this group are from the 1899 fire. Two others from the 1908 fire are noted.

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