Investigators Suspect Arson in Fire at State Historic Site
Investigators suspect that someone deliberately set the fire that damaged the home where former Gov. Charles B. Aycock was born.
Posted — UpdatedFire broke out around 4 a.m. in the main house, but numerous fire alarms and a rapid response by firefighters kept the fire from spreading, officials said. The fire was confined to the house's parlor, back porch and loft.
Most of the house and its furnishings sustained some smoke and water damage. One original Victorian turntable was destroyed.
Aycock was born in the house in 1859. He was elected governor in 1900 and focused on improving public education in North Carolina. Critics of Aycock's legacy have claimed he promoted segregation and white supremacy.
Fremont, N.C. 27830
State officials were also looking for a local craftsman willing to volunteer to reproduce the Victorian turntable destroyed in the fire.
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