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January 20, 2009

Fire claims Ellenburg business

<a href="mailto:avanvalkenburg@pressrepublican.com">By ANDREA VanVALKENBURG</a>

ELLENBURG — A raging inferno destroyed one of the oldest businesses in this northern town Tuesday afternoon.

The fire consumed Dominics’ Hardware and Supply around 3 p.m., bringing dozens of firefighters to the popular Canaan Road business that also housed two occupied apartments.

Thick flames and billowing smoke were visible for miles as crews worked to extinguish the blaze that left the family owned establishment in ruins.

Crews from 11 area departments battled the fire through the evening.

Officials said volunteers from the Ellenburg Depot, Ellenburg Center, Churubusco, Champlain, Dannemora, Mooers, Lyon Mountain, Altona, Chateaugay, Burke and Hemmingford fire departments were all involved in the emergency response.

Fire officials frequently called out for additional personnel to help relieve weary volunteers as the firefighting efforts continued for several hours.

Ellenburg Supervisor James McNeil said the hardware store was a staple among many area residents and was one of two supply stores in the small community.

“It used to be McGregor’s and it’s been in business for probably 60 to 70 years,” McNeil said as firefighters battled the blaze around 4 p.m.

McNeil was shocked by news of the fire and believed the store employed about four people.

Neighbors kept a close eye on the blaze through the evening as winds whipped flames across the road and knocked out power to several area homes.

“It was such a landmark in our community,” Linda Cheeseman said as she watched the action unfold from her home across the road from the large two-story building.

“I couldn’t believe it when I got home and saw it. The smoke was so bad, I can’t even describe it.

“This is just awful. I feel so bad. But everyone got out safe, and that’s what’s important.”

Red Cross officials were called in to assist the two families displaced by the blaze that reportedly left one firefighter with minor injuries.

Neighbors said the business is owned by Ellenburg resident James Dominic.

Crews were still at the charred building as of 8 p.m., and no additional information about the blaze was available at that time.

It was unclear Tuesday night what sparked the blaze.



E-mail Andrea VanValkenburg at:

avanvalkenburg@pressrepublican.com

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