The following photos were part of a News-photo story about the fire in Bradford in 1988. The first photo's caption reads: "Possible electrical trouble is the suspected cause of Thursday's $3 million fire in Bradford. Al Nosworthy, of the Ontario Fire Marshall's office, says materials recovered from the blaze will be forwarded to the Canadian Standards Association for detailed examination. "We are satisfied it wasn't arson," Nosworthy said yesterday, adding that some wiring may have possibly shorted out. "When the flames started, they went high in the walls, above the sprinkler system and up on the roof where they were fanned by strong north-east winds." The building was about 40 years old and used to be an ice house before it was used for storage. Wooden chips were used as insulation in parts of the structure. Nosworthy said insurance representatives have been through the remains but said they may not be able to put an exact dollar figure on the damage. "We may never really know." "

The following are part of a news-photo story on a fire in Bradford on May 3, 1988.

The following are part of a news-photo story on a fire in Bradford on May 3, 1988.

"When the fire alarm sounded at 4.30 o'clock on Monday afternoon, the billowing smoke at the top of the hill in town confused, giving the impression that the fire was closer and presenting rather an alarming picture. However, when the fire-fighting equipment went on to the brow of the hill, the fire was located on the Stoddart property and it was the barn.
The older timber provided material for a real conflagration and the fire, having gotten away to a good start, was out of hand before the firemen arrived on the scene. All they could do was stand by to protect neighbouring properties.
Later Monday night, with a breeze blowing, the brigade returned when sparks menaced the neighbourhood.
The cause of the fire is unknown."

South Simcoe News
Volume 6, Number 274
p.2

Newspaper article about a fire at W. H. Thornton's mill and machinery.

Photograph of firefighters tending to a bush fire on the edge of the Holland Marsh.

"Fire, Fire, Fire!
Bradford Watch, Clock and Jewelry Establishment.
J. Keetch, From England,
Begs to inform the inhabitants of Bradford and surrounding country, that in consequence of the late fire in Bradford, he has removed to a shop Next Door to Bingham's Hotel where he intends carrying on the business with the strictest attention, and thereby hopes to meet a general patronage.
Watches, Clocks, and Jewelry of the latest improved make and the best quality always on hand and made to order.
Watches, Clocks, Jewelry, and all kinds of Fancy Goods and Musical Instruments repaired to order and Warranted.
Although he has sustained a considerable loss, yet he has great satisfaction in informing his customers that their property in his possession is all safe.
Bradford, July 3, 1862."

Postcard and letters from the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office regarding fire wastage in war time.