History of Dover

A large concourse was attracted to Castle Street on Sunday afternoon about two o’clock to an alarm of fire having broken out at Boyce’s Victoria Hotel. On proceeding to the spot it was found that this was incorrect the facts being briefly as follows;

From foulness or some other cause the soot in the chimney of the Victoria ignited. The adjoining house was at the time under repair, and the slate being off its place was supplied with a large sailcloth. Several fragments of the burning soot fell on this covering and lighted it. The flames rapidly communicated to the exposed joists and but for the prompt intervention of most efficient aid the house in question, and no doubt other property too, must have fallen a prey to the devouring element.

The two Corporation Engines with their Captain’s Messrs G. T. Parks and Wood were promptly on the spot, and one of them (which was sufficient) was forthwith brought into operation. A plentiful supply of water was at hand and in less than 20 minutes the fire was got under. The short time that elapsed from the commencement of the engines playing on extinguishing of the flames is in some measure to be attributed to the mode of proceeding on the occasion. Though no porters are said to have been present the engines were ably manned. Mr. Wood directing operations below and Mr. Parks bearing the hose on the scene of danger thus the water was directed downwards on the burning masses.

The effect of its application in that manner was soon evinced by all apprehensions of a further spread of the fire being shortly removed. The damage sustained will require an outlay of about £50. We understand that not the slightest injury is done to the Hotel on one side of the burning house or the residence on the other side. We would not omit complimenting those having control of the engines on the promptness and energy displayed. We visited the Engine House after the conflagration, it is situated in Caroline Place near St. Mary’s Church. An additional room has been provided for the arrangements and the order in which it is kept reflects much credit on Mr. Parks. Now the practised hand need waste no time in equipping for any emergency. (1853)