07/03/2026
Today’s News in Flagler County’s Past...
THE FLAGLER TRIBUNE
Bunnell, Florida
Thursday, July 2, 1970
The main building at Bunnell High School was severely damaged by a fire early Saturday morning (27 Jun 1970). The fire was reported by Lew Wadsworth, a nearby resident, who first noted the smoke boiling from the windows and vents.
The fire apparently started in the janitor supply room which is in the basement on the back side of the building. Fires spread into the wood walls and floor joist in that area. The building is of wood construction with a brick veneer.
The floor in the classrooms above the janitor store rooms had sagged badly where the floor joists were burned out. Smoke damage was evident over the entire building. Most of the plastered classrooms were soaked and damage cannot yet be determined.
The wood floors were soaked and water continued to drop on the floors from the ceilings for several days so t there will be floor damage. While most of the books were saved, there was some damage to electronics equipment.
Superintendent Jim Craig said that he met with the State Fire Marshal who was called to the scene. Craig said the fire marshal made a very careful investigation and was able to locate the exact spot where the fire originated in the store room in a locked storage area.
Craig said the fire marshal told him his official report would indicate the fire started from undetermined causes. However, there was no suspicion of arson. The deputy sheriff who arrived at the scene ahead of the fire trucks informed the superintendent that all doors were locked and the windows closed.
Firefighting units assisting Bunnell Fire Department were from Flagler Beach, Hastings, Halifax, and Palatka. Many local citizens assisted in the fire fighting. Students assisted after the fire was brought under control, in removing books and equipment.
Superintendent Craig said the building is insured and an insurance adjuster was on the scene Saturday. However, no settlement could be discussed until engineering studies have been made by both the school board and insurers.
Craig said that he had contacted the State Department of Education who have the final say concerning the safety of a school building and are sending officials to study the damage.
It may he several weeks before a final decision is made relative to an insurance settlement and whether or not the building is sound enough structurally to be repaired.
NOTE: The building was taken down June 1972
