Crawfordsville fire officials are sorting out details after Harry’s Hideout was damaged by fire early Wednesday morning.
Crawfordsville Fire Division Chief Paul Miller said crews were called to the downtown restaurant at 101 E. Main St. just after 3 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and heat conditions coming from the walk-in sized vault in the back of the restaurant. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes.
Firefighters and investigators, including a representative from the State Fire Marshal’s office, remained on the scene until late Wednesday morning. An official cause of the fire has not yet been determined, but no foul play is suspected.
Harry’s owner Chris Stockdale said investigators told him the vault actually helped contain the fire.
He said appliances and dry products were inside the vault.
“I’ve probably lost thousands of dollars in product and appliances, not to mention what it will take to clean up the smoke, soot and water damages,” he said. “But I’m so grateful no one was injured and we didn’t lose the building. It would be awful to lose another historic building.”
Stockdale, who leases the space, anticipates the restaurant will be closed for at least a month to allow for repairs and renovations. The fire has also displaced his eight employees.
“They’re all very upset, but said they will be back when it’s time to reopen,” Stockdale said.
Early on Wednesday, Stockdale posted the following on social media:
“Harrys (sic) had what appears to be some kind of electrical fire last night above the old vault in the mechanical area. Unfortunately, we will be closed for a while until the cause is figured out and the damage is repaired. We appreciate all of your love and support and hope to be providing everyone, your favorite Harry’s dishes again soon.”
The building on the corner of East Main and Washington streets also houses several apartments upstairs. Miller added everyone escaped safely and no injuries were reported.
“I want to thank the Crawfordsville Fire Department for minimizing the damage as best they could,” Stockdale’s post said. “After spending some time in there this morning once the fire was put out I don’t know how those guys tolerate the residual effects of a blaze. My throat was burning, and my eyes were watering like I had been gassed in basic training all over again. Thank you for everything you do.”
