A historic structure with national significance was destroyed by a massive fire in Butler early Sunday.
The Bantam building, the birthplace of Jeep, collapsed during the fire, Butler FIre Chief Chris Switala told WTAE, adding that heavy fire was showing when the incident was reported.
The fire continued to burn througout the day Sunday.
"Jeep is an important contribution to our nation's history. And, again, we're just very proud to have that come from Butler County. So, to see this building like this is, is really sad for us," explained Amy Pack with Explore Butler County.
Bantam created the first Jeep in 1940 within 49 days. The U.S Army had requested auto manufacturers to help them create a new reconnaissance vehicle, she added.
Friends of Bantam Jeep Association wrote in a statement: "While information about the incident continues to develop, the organization extends its heartfelt gratitude to the first responders and firefighters who acted swiftly and selflessly to contain the fire and ensure the safety of the community. Their courage and dedication reflect the same resilient spirit that defines the Jeep story."
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Susan Nicol
News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.