Phenix Gazette

Richmond, February 7.—The Gallego Mills, owned by Mr. J. Chevallie, were entirely destroyed by fire last night. The fire originated about 7 o'clock, from friction, it is supposed, of the machinery, in the loft of the new Mill. The Mill was in operation at the time, and when the fire was discovered, three wheat fans were in a blaze, and their action on the air immediately wafted the flames to the roof, which in a few moments was in a complete blaze; and the old Mill adjoining being to leeward, soon caught also, and in half an hour both Mills were wrapped in flames from top to bottom.

Engines No. 1, 2, and 3, proceeded promptly to the fire, a mile and a half up the canal, and rendered what assistance they could. Mr. Rutherford's mill, near those on fire, and partially to leeward, was considered at one time in danger, but the hose of No. 2 protected it completely. Nos. 1 and 3 distinguished themselves also, and exhibited what may be calculated on from them where the exertions of fire companies can be available. The pathway along the canal bank was too narrow to admit of the Hydraulion going up. One Hundred Thousand Dollars will hardly cover the damage done by this destructive fire. Near that amount is insured. These Mills were flour of the most superior quality, nearly all of the most extensive in this country, and turned out finer flour than any other except the flour from Haxall's which found a market in Brazil, at a higher price. This is the first season the Gallego mills were in operation, since the new mill was built, and already they had ground 220,000 bushels of wheat.

Mr. Chevallie is out of town, but it is presumed no time will be lost in erecting other mills equal to those destroyed on their site. About fifteen years ago, the old Gallego Mill was destroyed by fire, also produced by friction of the machinery. Mr. Rutherford had his mill burnt previous to that, and more recently the Messrs. Haxall theirs, the fire in each originating, it was supposed, in the same way.