Truckee's Chinatown Burned

TRUCKEE’S CHINATOWN BURNED.

Two Imprisoned Highbinders Perish from Suffocation.

TRUCKEE, June 17.—At a little after noon to-day a fire broke out about the central portion of Chinatown, on the opposite side of the river from Truckee, and nearly the whole of Chinatown, including the joss house, was burned and completely destroyed, only one of the three fire-proof buildings withstanding the flames. The wind was blowing a terrific gale and the flames swept everything before them. Piles of ashes are all that indicate where Chinatown existed. Since the departure of the Chinamen many of the houses have been deserted, and, as they were mere shells, they succumbed readily.

The fire originated from an exposed stovepipe extending through the roof. A couple of Chinamen, whom their fellow-countrymen had refused food and lodging, went into a house to cook something and built a fire in the stove. It is supposed that the cobwebs hanging on the pipe and rafters in the attic were ignited. Despite the heroic efforts of the fire department all the buildings were consumed in less than one hour. It was only by persevering efforts that the bridge was saved.

Two highbinders that were confined in the cellar of the Tuck Chung Company by the Chinamen, were suffocated; but by the strenuous efforts of the firemen, midst the flames and smoke, they were taken out and all possible means used to resuscitate them, but without avail. The Coroner’s jury has not yet concluded its labors.

It looks as if it would be proven that there has been a deliberate plot of the Chinese to burn their quarters and then revenge themselves by burning Truckee. Extra guards are on duty and the town is abundantly able to protect itself. The Chinamen have been busy ever since the fire abated digging up their buried treasure. One heathen dug up $500 in gold coin and several others smaller amounts.

The people managed to save some $500 worth of property from the burning buildings of one Chinese merchant.

The excitement that was once so intense has nearly abated, and what few Chinamen are left in this section are making preparations to leave.