Today in Johnson City History, Tuesday, January 28, 2025

False fire alarms, old newspapers and the Science Hill wresting team

Wednesday, January 28, 1925: A century ago today, the Johnson City Staff-News reported that “Three alarms were turned into the local Fire Department Tuesday morning.

“One was a false alarm. Someone probably saw a blaze issuing from a smokestack and thought Walker’s Coal Yard on Walnut street (sic for Street) was on fire and sent in an alarm and a run was made by Company No. 1.

“The second was a small blaze at the home of F. K. Mountcastle at 203 E. Watauga avenue (sic for Avenue) which was answered by Company No. 1. The fire was probably caused by a defective flue and was put out after a slight damage which was covered by insurance.