At two o’clock in the morning of July 11, 1894, the Alburg Springs House burned to the ground. The resort was a popular summer destination known for its “medicinal springs.” People from throughout the country came for the therapeutic power of the springs, or simply to enjoy the scenery and to sail or fish.

Of the 50 people in the hotel at the time of the fire, no one was seriously injured. A strong breeze off the lake fanned the flames, and within two short hours, the commanding wooden structure was completely destroyed.

The building was insured, but furnishings and patrons’ personal belongings were lost.

Photo courtesy The History of the Town of Alburgh, Vermont boy Allen L. Stratton.