1989 Bennett House Fire, Rossville, Kansas

Title

Subject

Fire

Description

The Kenneth and Norma Bennett residence at 304 Main, Rossville, Kansas, was destroyed by fire the evening of Friday, December 15, 1989. Cause of the fire is unknown, but broke out in the walls about 8:30. Firefighters were on the scene until 8:00 Saturday morning. The Bennetts and their daughter, Yvonne, escaped unharmed. According to Fire Chief Robert Sieh, all attempts to save the house and its contents were hampered by temperatures of 15 degrees or more below zero.

Article transcription:

FIRE HAD BEEN RAGING in the walls of the Kenny and Norma Bennett home on Rossville's North Main street before Mrs. Bennett called the fire department about 9 p.m. Friday, December 15. Cause of the fire had not been determined at press time, but the house and contents of the home are considered a total loss.
Fire Chief Bob Sieh called St. Marys for fire personnel to assist in fighting the fire, as well as a paramedic unit. Firefighters were at the scene until about 3 a.m. Saturday. One of the firemen said that it look two people to remove the firemen's gloves and the snaps on their fire uniforms also froze. There were no injuries in this fire, which was finally considered "out" at 5:30 a.m.
Ice buildup on the second floor and in the basement make the structure unsafe to enter at this time. People arc cautioned, once again, to be very careful of portable heaters, Christmas lights and other items which could cause fires at this time of year.
Photo by Brandon Magette
Page 5 St Marys Star December 19, 1989

ICE FORMED as quickly as the water came from the hoses at the terrible fire in Rossville Friday, December 16. Alan McKenzie and Assistant Fire Chief Steve Guyle man the hose. The tree took on the appearance of a winter wonderland as the water hit it and froze solid.
Photo by Brandon Magette