Local historic farmhouse destroyed by vandals, probably

Give it up for the youth of Fayettenam!

A fire likely started by vandals gutted a nearly 200-year-old mansion in Fayette County that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The destroyed property was the Levi Springer House, built in 1817 as an inn for travelers along 40, which was ultimately rerouted. The historical society hoped it could've been renovated one day, although the cost to do so likely exceeded its value, and it's been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982. The vandalism occurred early Tuesday morning.

“If you would have seen this place before, it was beautiful,” said Roger Victor, a former deputy coroner who for decades has kept tabs on the house while tending to a nearby county cemetery. “Somebody needs to be held accountable for this.” 

Absolutely. It's a shame that a historic mansion like this has been destroyed, seemingly because of some kids having fun. Fun doesn't have to be immature, irresponsible, and inconsiderate, kids!

Pointing to empty beer cans and aerosol canisters outside the smoldering building, Victor said the blaze likely was started by vandals. He said the secluded building, which is at the end of a dirt road outside Uniontown and not visible from nearby Route 40, has been a popular party spot for young adults for years.

I didn't realize partying in abandoned mansions was a thing people did around here, but I guess it's not surprising. I mean, I know it can be hard to find fun stuff to do when you're young and bored in the Nam, but it can be done without setting shit on fire. I speak from experience.

Commissioner Zapotosky, for all his flaws, had some harsher words:

“It was done by stupid individuals who should do more productive things in life than set buildings on fire,” Zapotosky said. “Somebody was there who shouldn't have been there, and this home, built in the 1800s, is no longer part of our rich history in Fayette County.”    

A fire marshal is investigating.