The Fleming Elevator

by Montana McMullen

The town of Fleming, Saskatchewan experienced a great loss when its historic grain elevator burned down on 9 February 2010. The community had worked hard to raise money for its preservation as a local treasure and tourist attraction and was planning a grand reopening celebration.

Before its destruction by arson, it had been the oldest remaining elevator of its kind. It had a distinct wood frame and peaked roof which distinguished it from others.

FLEMMING ELEVATOR, BEFORE RECONSTRUCTION, N.D.; COURTESY OF ADAM BOUVIER.

Before its restoration began, the elevator was weathered, worn down, falling apart, and not very appealing to the eye.

FLEMMING ELEVATOR AFTER RESTORATION; PHOTOGRAPHER: TIM VAN HORN; SOURCE: CANADIAN MOSAIC, PIX OF THE DAY.

Restoration gave the elevator new life, representing how it may have looked when it was first built in 1895.

FLEMMING ELEVATOR UP IN FLAMES; PHOTOGRAPHER: TIM VAN HORN; SOURCE: CANADIAN MOSAIC, PIX OF THE DAY. THE EARLY MORNING FIRE WAS A SAD SIGHT FOR AREA RESIDENTS.

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