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Dec. 06--MODESTO -- The Modesto Fire Department successfully extinguished a fire at the historic McHenry Mansion in Modesto.
Modesto Fire received a call at 7:32 p.m. The fire started at the front exterior of the building, causing significant damage. Crews were able to get inside the mansion to prevent the flames from spreading.
Despite there being very little smoke or fire damage inside the mansion, the basement was flooded with a few inches of water from the firefighting efforts. Some of the carpet and a few pieces of furniture took on water damage as well.
Firefighters are remaining on the scene to make sure the fire stays out.
In a statement on their Facebook page, the McHenry Mansion thanked a man for quickly spotting the fire.
The statement reads: "A local business person discovered it and called in the fire immediately while also trying to put the fire out. We are thankful for the local support and our awesome Modesto Fire Department for taking action so quickly!"
The damage to the mansion is being estimated at $200,000.
The mansion was built in 1883 by Robert McHenry, a prominent Modesto-area banker and rancher. It was donated by the Juan R. Gallo Foundation to the City of Modesto for community use.
McHenry Mansion is on the National Register of Historic places.
