The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
In Burlington, Burns To Ground
by Dessa Rodeffer, Quill Publisher
One of Burlington's historic churches sits in ruins after a fire destroyed the entire insides and roof of the First United Methodist Church at 421 North Washington Street.
The beautiful stone church is one of two landmark churches along Washington Street, near the foot of Burlington, Iowa's fame Snake Alley. It is situated across the alley from Prugh's Funeral Home and across the street from another beautiful stone house of worship, the First Presbyterian Church, which also was reported as having an attempted fire set inside its sanctuary.
A young man 28 years old has been charged with arson.
The Burlington Hawkeye, who has been covering the event extensively, has many stories some photos and video clips available on their web site.
You may access them from their home page at: http://www.thehawkeye.com/ on the right side of the page under:
Latest features * First United Methodist Church Fire
Although the outside stone looks still in tact, the congregation and church pastor have not decided if they can rebuild the structure. A few of the items, like the church bell, have been saved, but most everything was reported destroyed.
Driving by the old structure makes your heart sink and sympathize with the deep feeling of loss church members as well as community members must be going through.
It is hoped enough money can be raised to bring the church back to becoming the stately landmark it had been for so many years.