100 Years Ago
Taken from the files of the Wheatland Times
August 28, 1918
Compiled by Patsy Parkin
Courtesy of Platte County Historical Society
A destructive fire started from lightning near Owen ten days ago has done great damage to a large section of government forest land covering about 17 miles in circumference. Local residents had hoped to quell the blaze, but because of shifting winds and spreading destruction have called for help from the Wheatland Home Guard and any other available citizens. 80 men are now working in shifts trying to stop the flames.
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100 Years Ago
Taken from the files of the Wheatland Times
August 28, 1918
Compiled by Patsy Parkin
Courtesy of Platte County Historical Society
A destructive fire started from lightning near Owen ten days ago has done great damage to a large section of government forest land covering about 17 miles in circumference. Local residents had hoped to quell the blaze, but because of shifting winds and spreading destruction have called for help from the Wheatland Home Guard and any other available citizens. 80 men are now working in shifts trying to stop the flames. From a later dispatch: Strong winds have scattered fire brands over much new territory and those fighting the fire with wet sacks, rakes, and shovels are making no headway. It looks like a helpless struggle with only a good rain capable of stopping the inferno.