Major Fire in the Market Town of Mals

On 7 May during the night between 1 and 2 o'clock, a fire broke out in the centre of the market town of Mals, which spread so rapidly that a large part of the row of houses from the Grisch post house to the pharmacy was already engulfed in flames before the residents of the surrounding villages could rush to their aid. Yet in a short time, people from all neighbouring municipalities and no fewer than 9 fire engines were on site. Through united cooperation and relentless efforts on all sides, it was possible to save the entire Burgeisergasse and the whole wing toward Tartsch, the church, the decanal rectory, and the Capuchin monastery, even though cotton and oil barrels among freight goods favoured the rapid spread of the destructive element. Within 3 hours, 19 residential buildings were reduced to ashes. The 70-year-old unmarried coppersmith Jos. Adam was found dead beneath the smouldering ruins. The origin of this conflagration, which also claimed 9 horses, has not yet been discovered. How extensive the damage is can easily be fathomed, as the fire spread so unbelievably fast over a wide stretch that most victims were scarcely able to save more than their lives. Public thanks to all who rendered active assistance — sympathy and support to the poor who have lost much — or everything.

Glurns, 8 May 1836. Neißl, Landrichter.

Note. The editorial office is prepared to accept contributions from philanthropists for those affected by the fire and forward them to their intended destination. It will publish the receipt thereof in the Intelligenzblatt.