A fire at the rear of the Marion Launderama, 1201 W. Main early today damaged the rear heavily but was quickly brought under control by Marion firemen. Firemen were summoned to the Launderama at 12:20 am when the blaze broke out in the furnace room. Fire Chief Lonnie Dungey reported that the fire was under control in about 20 minutes. Dungey made no estimate of damages early today. The fire chief said an estimate would be made later. “A part of the front of the Launderama was damaged,” Dungey said. “Some of the machines and dryers were damaged by smoke and heat.” Dungey reported the cause of the fire was unknown pending further investigation. “The fire was contained in the furnace room for the main part,” Dungey said. The building is owned by Dave Sneedon, Marion. Dungey identified the operator of the Launderama as John Barnes, Herrin.

(Extracted from local newspapers and compiled by Harry Boyd, posted at http://www.marionfire.us )