Breaking News – Video – Golden Rooster Destroyed By Suspicious Fire in Colborne

In Editor Choice, Local, Photo Gallery
For video click below
An historic building in downtown Colborne was destroyed by fire on Friday, January 22, 2021.
The Golden Rooster Restaurant located at 5 Toronto Road in downtown Colborne was totally engulfed by flames when Cramahe Township Fire Department crews arrived shortly after being dispatched at 6:05 p.m.
A firefighter on scene confirmed to responding crews that it was a working structure fire.
Fire Chief Bruce Greatrix said arriving crews were met by a wall of flame coming from the three floors of the building which was quickly spreading to the rest of the building.
Embers from the intense fire showered Toronto Road and extended to the east.
Cramahe Fire Department immediately called for assistance from Brighton and then requested a platform (aerial) truck from Trent Hills Fire Department and Hamilton Township for their air supply truck to fill air-tanks.
The owner of the restaurant told Today’s Northumberland he had just closed up approximately 15-30 minutes prior to the fire being discovered.
Cramahe Township Mayor Mandy Martin said the building was built in 1850 and was an“poignant piece of history in downtown Colborne so many memories.”
Initially the building was a residence, then a combined residence/store and finally a restaurant.
New ownership of the building approximately five years ago.
“It was a magnificent building.
“What people may forget is all of Canada used this route from Montreal to Toronto.”
The building had many uses and contributions to Colborne.
“It’s like losing your pinky finger.  You think it doesn’t matter until it’s gone.”
Martin said a number of people including herself had concerns about the fire spreading to the neighbouring Town Hall because of the flying embers.
“In the last year we have done a yeoman’s service getting our system and records uploaded to ensure that our records will continue.”
Watching fire crews battle through high winds, intense heat, and cold temperatures she had nothing but praise not only for the firefighters, but other emergency responders.
“I was incredibly moved by all the firefighters.
“In a crisis like this, nobody makes the distinction whether you’re full-time or volunteer.  You’re there to save lives and protect the community.  That also includes invisible people like utility workers, people who turn off the gas, turn off the hydro, ensure there is enough water to douse a flame that threatens a community.
“This is why we have mutual aid. This is why we co-operate and come together when it counts.
“If we still care for one another – it works.”
It’s believed the fire started in the basement, but that hasn’t been confirmed.
Witnesses were amazed at how quickly the fire engulfed the building.
The office of the Ontario Fire Marshal will be contacted and will likely attend on Saturday.
The last of the Cramahe Fire Department left the scene shortly after midnight, but will be checking on the building throughout the night.
Northumberland OPP is maintaining the scene until further notice.
There were no injuries and no damage estimate.
Pete Fisher
Author: Pete Fisher

Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love

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