Bio: Russel, Arthur - Home Fire (1932)

Contact: Kathleen E. Englebretson
Email: kathy@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Russel, Swantes, Wolff, Winn

---Source: Marshfield News-Herald (5 October 1932)

NEILLSVILLE, October 5 -- Fire caused from a spark from the kitchen chimney lighting on the roof of an adjoining shed, immediately burst into flames. Almost entirely destroying the home of Arthur Russel on Clay Street Monday afternoon at 5:45. The Neillsville fire department immediately answered the call but before they arrived the fire had spread through the house. Neighbors and fireman carried out the furniture, much of which was ruined by the flames and water. Windows in the house were broken and all furniture carried to a place of safety. Mr. and Mrs. Russel were at home at the time of the fire. In the rear shed was stored a new popcorn wagon owned by William Tragsdorf. The machine was completely destroyed.

Less than two years ago, the Russell family experienced a similar tragedy in this house, but not of such great damage. Mr. Swantes, a roomer in the Russel home, hearing of the fire, ran home and with the aid of a ladder climbed to his room on the second floor and saved his clothes.

The home is owned by George Wolff of Chicago. Both house and furniture are insured. The Russel family will make their home with Mrs. Russel's mother, Mrs. Webster Winn.