Photos/Story by Jason R. Henske

BERNARDSTON, Mass -- On the morning of Wednesday, February 20, fire destroyed a century old inn in Bernardston, MA -- a small town near the Vermont border in Western Massachusetts.

Firefighters responded shortly after 5 a.m. to the Falls River Inn at the intersection of Mass Routes 5 and 10 when a fire alarm awakened an innkeeper. On arrival firefighters were met with fire in third floor rooms on the 3rd floor, northeast corner, of the wooden, balloon frame structure. Fire rapidly spread through the upper two floors and into the attic of the three-story building, causing the roof to collapse just after 6 a.m.

Mutual aid was utilized by 12 fire companies from both Massachusetts and Vermont, who operated numerous handlines, and master streams, including 3 deck guns and 2 ladder pipes. Firefighting efforts were hampered by a water supply unable to cope with the demand. Several long hose lays were utilized, including nearly 4200 feet laid up Route 5 to a small river, and using three pumpers to relay. The fire was brought under control shortly after 8:30 a.m.

Still under investigation by the Massachusetts State Police, it is believed the fire started in vacant rooms on the third floor. Damage to the building was extensive with heavy fire damage to the upper floors, and water damage below. Firefighters were able to salvage valuable antiques and items of historic and sentimental value from the building, which also housed a restaurant and bar. No injuries were reported, a family staying in the inn was temporarily relocated to the home of a local minister. It is unknown whether the Inn, owned by Peter and Beverly Kerber of Guilford, Vermont will be rebuilt