A devastating fire tore through a historic Victorian home at 186 Summer Avenue in the early hours of Wednesday, July 9th leaving the community in shock. The blaze, which also consumed a barn on the property, required a significant response from the Reading Fire Department and mutual aid from neighboring towns.
Firefighters were dispatched to the scene shortly after midnight following a firefighter returning from another call, reported seeing heavy flames at the 1848-built home, which was under construction at the time. According to the Reading Fire Department, the fire originated in a barn behind the main house, quickly reducing it to rubble. The flames then spread to the main structure, reigniting a portion of the home and causing extensive damage. Video footage from the scene showed intense flames pouring from a window, with thick smoke billowing into the night sky.
The home, a 7,609-square-foot Victorian with eight bedrooms and three fireplaces, has long been a cherished part of Reading’s historic district. Known for its distinctive gable roof and wood siding, the property narrowly escaped demolition in 2014 after community efforts, including a GoFundMe campaign that raised $1,905, preserved it for future restoration. The ongoing construction work aimed to restore the home to its 19th-century grandeur, making the fire’s destruction particularly heartbreaking for residents.
No injuries were reported, as the home was unoccupied during the blaze. Fire officials described the response as a “third alarm” operation, indicating the severity of the fire, with defensive tactics employed to contain the spread to both the barn and the house. Firefighters from at least one neighboring town assisted in battling the flames, which were brought under control after several hours of intense effort.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with officials yet to release further details. The Reading Fire Department has urged anyone with information about the fire to come forward.
I am so devastated to hear of this. My sister and brother in-law and sisters and six children owned this house for many years in the 1960’s. I personally grew up in that house as well!! So sad so disappointed to hear of this. Many awesome memories I have in that house. 💔