Milledgeville, Georgia, USA
1897 - GEORGIA ASYLUM ON FIRE. NEGRO SECTION OF THE MILLEDGEVILLE INSTITUTION DESTROYED - NO LIVES LOST OWING TO EXCELLENT DISCIPLINE.

Milledgeville, Ga., Nov. 9. - The negro section of the Georgia Insane Asylum burned today. There were within the walls at the time the fire broke out inmates and all over 700 persons, but the efficiency of administration was such that no lives were lost.

The group of buildings constituting the section covered about four acres. The fire started in the attic above one of the wards on the east side, and was discovered by DR. OETALL, who was attending one of the patients. The fire walls of the building did not extend to the roof, and as a consequence the fire traveled under the roof and dropped the sparks below. The tiers being divided by solid brick walls, the progress of the fire was slow, but very steady, about ten hours elapsing before it was checked. Portions of the section were saved, but the major part was gutted. The asylum water service was excellent, and was reinforced by engines from the Fire Department of Macon, thirty miles away which were brought here upon a special train.
DR. POWELL, Superintendent of the Asylum, estimates the loss at about $100,000, including the buildings and furniture, upon which there is insurance of about 50 per cent. There was room enough in the other buildings temporarily to care for those who were dislodged by the fire. The Legislature of Georgia is now in session, and prompt relief will be granted the asylum.

The New York Times
New York, New York
November 10, 1897

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