A landmark in downtown Tweed was destroyed by fire on Wednesday, March 10, 2021.
Firefighters were called to the Tweedsmuir Hotel on Victoria Street North/Highway 37 shortly after 6 a.m.
When the first fire crews arrived, there was nothing that could be done to save the historic, 140-year-old building that has been a staple of downtown Tweed.
Quinte News Anchor Tim Durkin heard the call and knowing the area immediately got in his vehicle to attend the scene north of Belleville.
“I had a feeling knowing the building it might be something serious,” Durkin told Today’s Northumberland.
Having a number of family members from the Tweed area, Durkin said, “it’s woven into the social fabric of the community.”
While travelling to the fire, smoke could be seen from 15 kilometres away.
Arriving approximately 50-minutes after the initial call, Durkin took a number of dramatic photos and videos of firefighters battling the flames.
Describing the Tweedsmuir Hotel and what it means to the community, Durkin said, “it’s one of those places known by friends, parents and grandparents. Many people had their first drink there.”
“Locals knew it year round, campers and cottages knew it through the summer.”
With the walls of the historic building knocked down, the hotel is a total loss.
“It was much more than just a bar, restaurant or tavern. It was Tweed.”
Damage estimates are not known.
The Ontario Fire Marshal’s office was called, but due to the structural damage and collapse of the walls they will not be attending.
All images/video courtesy of Quinte News Anchor Tim Durkin
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
