Fire destroyed a back workshop building and a treasure trove of hardwoods in storage at McMartin and Beggins Furniture Makers last night in Wittman.
According to Jim Beggins, a neighbor noticed a fire behind the large complex at 11:00 p.m. last night, and alerted authorities.
Fire crews worked till 3:30 am putting the fire out. An arson investigation is underway.
Jim McMartin and Jim Beggins purchased the old Howeth Lumberyard property in 2004, and completed extensive renovations to create a large artisan complex, housing a number of studio artists and woodworkers.
The furniture makers are known throughout the region for their distinctive furniture, made from local hardwoods. They built the Governor’s Legacy Desk from part of the historic Wye Oak tree, and have designed and built furniture for many historic estates in the region, as well as the Vice President’s Mansion in Washington D.C.
The property includes a 4,500 sq. ft. main building that was untouched by the fire. In the rear of the property, a large shed holding a substantial collection of planked hardwood was completed destroyed, and a rear workshop is partially ruined and water damaged.
The loss includes some 20,000 board feet of local white oak, walnut, red cedar, cherry, maple and poplar, which had been drying in place for years and was intended to become cherished heirloom furniture.
Jim McMartin estimates the loss at around $50,000.
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Jake Flory says
It brakes my heart to here of this awful news. My family suffered a warehouse fire many years ago, it’s tough.
I’ll be there to help clean up.
Jake