For this Throwback Thursday, we’re taking it back to a historic fire that destroyed a landmark in the Leonardtown community!

On June 8, 1956, the St. Mary’s Hotel, a very popular destination for lodging in Leonardtown, Md. erupted in flames just before 4am! The twenty or so occupants that evening were able to escape the three-story structure, using fire ladders and leaping from the 2nd and 3rd floors of the burning structure

Only three occupants were treated for burns to the hand and face, a leg fracture and internal injuries.

Companies from across St. Mary’s County, including #SDVFDRS (then the McKay’s Beach VFD), rushed to the scene to assist Leonardtown VFD. At least 20 apparatus from all over the county fought the blaze, pumping water from Breton Bay to battle the fire. Witnesses state the fire and smoke were visible from miles away.

The St. Mary's Hotel, a local landmark since 1905, was ultimately lost in the fire, having previously survived a substantial fire in 1908.

This historic event shows the amazing volunteer spirit in St. Mary’s County, and how deeply rooted all fire departments in Southern Maryland are deeply rooted in this #Community.

Do you have any stories to share about the historic fire? Share them in the comments!

Photos Courtesy of The St. Mary's County Historical Society, The Enterprise and the following video by Dickie Duke: Old Hotel St Marys in Leonardtown, Md.