"This week's photo, courtesy of the Bradford Fire Department, depicts the fire in February of 1959 which destroyed a large block of the downtown section, from Evans and Evans to the police department. The fire swept through several businesses, unprotected by fire walls. Firefighters from five arena departments battled almost 20 hours to quell the stubborn blaze which caused an estimated $500,000 damage. This week's photo was suggested by Ernest and Lola Peterman of Bradford who sent in a newspaper clipping of the fire."

The house currently located at 73 Simcoe Road was built by Morton in 1995 . The original structure at this site was destroyed by fire. It had been the home of Ernest (Boo) Rogers and his wife and children (Frank, Eric, Florence, Amos, Jacqueline, and Jack) many years ago. They moved here from a farm on the 6th Concession in West Gwillimbury. A barn to the south (near the Hendersons’ large garden) was used by their horses and cows. (1, 2)

Contains news clippings and articles on various fires of Bradford West Gwillimbury; articles ranging from 1864 - 1958

Article about the history of the Trinity Anglican Church, written by its minister, Rev. E.R. Woolley.

Correspondence, invoices and debenture information related to the purchase of a fire truck for Bradford, dated 1923-1925.

An article about farmers providing food to those in need after a fire and the Emergency Relief Committee.

The Evans' Men and Boys Wear store prior to the 1959 fire on Holland Street W. which damaged the building.

The Canadian Bank of Commerce prior to the 1959 fire on Holland Street West. This building was saved due to its fire wall on the left of the photograph.

The ruins of the Holland Street stores which were affected by the fire.

"Bradford's fire siren apparently is not in working order, and the old bell, which used to cause a big alarm, now gives only a faint tinkle, and the few who do hear it, hear so little they are seldom sure just what they head. all in all, our fire alarm system is not alarming.
Saturday firement had to attend Kapisak's vegetable booth when fire cause considerable damage. had it not been for the sire on the fire truck it is doubtful if even the main street business people would have known there was a fire.
Most of us are interested enough in the fate which befalls the other and want to lend a helping hand if fire is destroying a friend's property and would therefore encourage the idea of the repair or replacement of the fire siren."