Thursday April 9, 1925

One of the oldest homes within many miles of Frederick, occupied by Mrs. Amanda Mercer, at Braddock Springs, facing on the National Pike, was destroyed by fire Wednesday afternoon. The flames, which originated in the chimney on the second floor, quickly spread to all parts of the dwelling. The automobile engine of the Independent Hose Company responded to the alarm but the flames had practically destroyed the house before the arrival of the firemen. The Mercer home was built about 75 years ago.

Mrs. Mercer was the only occupant of the house, her husband, a Civil War veteran, having died about six months ago.