Burning Lamp Causes Fire On Penn Street

On August 7, 1910 between the hours of 10 and 11:00 p.m. most of the towns people had retired for the night when the Vigilant’s bell tolled for an alarm of fire. It was soon realized that the alarm was for the Harry Diller residence in Hollar’s row, North Penn Street. Mr. Diller was preparing for bed when a lamp flared up, grabbing the lamp Harry attempted to toss if from a window without realizing the screen was still intact. The lamp struck the screen and bounced back breaking when it hit the floor and spreading flames though out the room. Realizing he could not control the fire he sounded the alarm. Neighbors from across the street quickly came to his aid; attaching a garden hose a stream was played through the window. When the water struck the screen it formed a spray extinguishing the fire. Firemen were soon on the scene attaching to a plug and stretching a line but there water was not needed. The carpet was ruined along with several pieces of furniture causing an estimated $35.00 in damages. Mr. Dillers arm and hand were badly burned. The Vigilant Hose and Cumberland Valley Hose companies answered the alarm.