The Rich History Of Blanchester

 The Big Fire of 1895

Published in the NYTimes October 19, 1895
Bad Fire at Blanchester, Ohio; Sixty Stores in Ashes - Twenty Residences Burned Down -- Two Churches Destoryed
Blanchester, Ohio, Oct. 18  A large portion of this town is in ashes. A fire started at noon in Burke's Liver stable, from carelessness of some smoker, and rages up to 10 o'clock to-night.  A high wind prevailed theentire time, sweeping the flames and brands in every direction. Buildings four blocks away caught fire from burning cinder.
Every business house in town suffered. sixty stores are in ashes. Twenty-odd residences were burned down. Two churches, two bank buildings and the Odd Fellows' and Masonic Halls were also destroyed.
Following are the principal losers: W.H. Carnahan, $7,000; Blanchester Bank, $6,000; H.L. Day, $4,000; T. Baldwin $5,000; Odd Fellows' Hall, $6,000; Thomas Hodley Opera house, $6,000; M.E. Church, $6,000; Masonic Hall, $3,500. Numerous small losses occurrred. The total loss will be over $150,000 with insurance not exceeding $40,000