The Ashland Union

Richland County.--The residence of Dr. O. J. Rotsel, near the village of Rome, in Richland County, came very near being destroyed by fire last week. The Dr. and his lady were away from home on a visit, leaving the small children alone, who, it is thought, in playing with matches about a straw stack near the house, accidentally fired the straw, which was soon in a flame. By the prompt and energetic efforts of the neighbors, directed by A. S. Chew, Esq., the fire was subdued and the buildings saved. But for their timely and efficient efforts, the barn, office and dwelling, would have been destroyed. The Dr. is particularly unfortunate with fire accidents. This is the third time his property has been exposed within a few years. The first time his dwelling and everything in it was consumed, so complete was the destruction, that not even the clothing of the family was saved. That fire occurred in the night and the occupants of the building barely escaped with their lives, without clothing. It was no doubt the work of an incendiary.