We remember the Big Fire of 1894 that destroyed many houses right here on Main Street and Court Street here in downtown Marion, NC!

“Before the fire of 1894, which gutted the town, Main Street in Marion was a collection of mostly wooded huts, houses, and buildings. The old Courthouse, located at its present location, was, however, of brick construction with two outside stairways meeting each other at the second floor. Construction began in 1843 and court was first held in 1845.

“The devastating fire of November 25, 1894 started on Sunday morning in an old building known as the ‘Ark’ which was located behind the Courthouse. The courthouse did not burn. The fire spread to Main Street and roared down the street across the railroad bridge and beyond.

“Next, it jumped across the street and went back up Main Street to Court Street. The few brick buildings were also gutted, as there was no public water supply.

“Cinders and burning timbers were blown all the way to Mt. Ida, but some houses miraculously escaped with the help of bucket brigades. Marion's citizens took in neighbors and shared what they had until permanent abodes could be established 2 or 3 years later.

“Actually, the rebuilt houses and business structures were much sturdier and much better built; and a new Marion, like the ‘Phoenix, arose from the ashes’!”

(Source: Facebook)