CARROLLTON, Ga. — A lightning strike sparked a fire at the historic Maple Street Mansion on Saturday night, damaging the building’s upper exterior while firefighters protected the main-floor retail space.
The September 5 fire was concentrated around the mansion’s steeple and turret. Passersby saw flames coming from the roof and called 911, allowing emergency crews to respond before the fire spread into the lower portions of the building.
Damage limited to the upper exterior
The Heirloom Store’s owners said the steeple, turret and balcony sustained significant structural damage. They reported that the main-floor shop and its inventory did not suffer fire or water damage.
The owners had been waiting outside for a severe storm to pass when lightning struck nearby. They briefly entered the building to reset a breaker and turn off flickering lights, but they did not initially realize the mansion itself had been hit.
Inspection and repairs ahead
A daylight structural inspection was planned to determine whether the strike caused hidden electrical or structural problems. The owners said exterior repairs would begin as they worked to preserve the historic property.
Maple Street Mansion, located at 401 Maple Street, is a prominent Carrollton landmark dating to the late 19th century. The business indicated that it intended to remain open while the repair process moved forward, subject to safety assessments.
