The large two story frame structure known as the Elliott Hotel on West College near the C&EI yards was practically destroyed by fire on Friday night at about 9 o’clock, together with practically all of the contents. The fire originated from the explosion of a coal oil stove in the kitchen on the ground floor. One man, Frank Jacobs, a C&EI fireman was asleep upstairs and came near being burned to death. He was carried out and down a ladder but a few minutes before the room in which he was sleeping was filled with the flames. The building was owned by T.A. Elliott and was occupied by his son in law, Charley Cox, who has been conducting the place for several months. The house was recently improved. Mr. Elliott carried some insurance but not enough to cover his loss. The fire department responded on time and fought well, confining the fire to one building. The blackened frame of the building stands today as evidence of the good fire fighting. While fighting the blaze, the firemen came into contact with a live wire which was upon the ground and every man who had part in the work of manning the nozzle was thrown to the ground. None were hurt seriously.

(Extracted from the Egyptian Press and compiled by Harry Boyd, posted at http://www.marionfire.us/ )