No Horses Injured in Pennsylvania Barn Fire
Description:
A restored 200-year-old horse barn at Greenbriar Farm in Alburtis, Pa., was completely destroyed by fire the night of June 26. No horses were injured.
The farm is jointly owned by George, Margaret, and Michael Chovanes.
Eight Thoroughbreds, including two mares and two foals, were evacuated by farm personnel as the fire engulfed the barn in a few minutes. More than 4,000 bales of hay and straw were stored in the historic bank barn, the farm said in a June 27 press release.
The Chovanes family said they have a renewed respect for volunteer firefighters, as more than eight fire companies and 100 firemen helped fight the blaze until 3 a.m. EDT, drawing water from the adjacent pond for the pumper trucks.
"Fortunately, our loyal farm help, Caitie Chovanes, Tom Merkey, and Danielle Conrad were just starting evening turnout and saw the blaze just after turning out the first few horses," said Dr. Michael Chovanes, an equine veterinarian. "Their quick reaction saved the remaining six horses just before the ceiling caved in onto the stalls.
"Our friends and neighbors have been wonderful in supplying everything from water trucks to cat food, in addition to providing moral support, and we wish to thank them," Chovanes said.
All five barn cats are accounted for, the family said.