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July 19, 2003

The former Capreol Hotel and Tavern burned down on Friday, July 18, 2003.

The hotel is warmly remembered by many Capreol old-timers as a place to meet friends, have a few and, if necessary, a place to put their heads down. In the early 1900's the facility served as a CN bunkhouse but was converted to a hotel in the 20's.

In 1996 the hotel was closed down and then rapidly became an eyesore to citizens and visitors alike. Not only an eyesore and a danger but also a place often entered by Capreol youths and vagrants. The fear of a fire by downtown residents and business owners became reality on Friday evening. The absence of a northwest wind and the prompt action by 35 fire fighters from Capreol and Valley East prevented the feared calamity. No other buildings were apparently saffected

For the past two years Capreolonline has pleaded for the demolition of the hotel - click here for story - and it was finally scheduled for take-down in August. The fire was quicker.

No injuries were reported.

The fire is now under investigation by the Fire Marshal

P.S. This was the only fire I have ever attended where everybody had a smile on their face, except the fire fighters of course.