Fire ravages historic building

UPPER MARLBORO, Md. (AP) -- The county court complex remained closed today as investigators probed smoldering rubble from a fire that devoured a 123-year-old building.
It is not yet known what caused Wednesday's wind-driven blaze, which began on the roof area as work progressed on a $27 million renovation.
The building's hose taps and sprinklers had been disconnected during the construction, and firefighters decided to let the flames gut the red-brick structure so they could save the modern courthouse next door.
That building, which opened in 1991, contains the county's criminal files, land records and other documents.
Crews were expected to continue aerating the undamaged section today. It could reopen for business Friday.
The modern building had not opened for the day when fire broke out in the so-called Duvall Wing. Officials believe more than 55 construction workers were on site.
Fire spread quickly
Old beams, wooden flooring and construction materials provided ample fuel and wind gusts of more than 25 mph spread the flames quickly.
Calling the building a county treasure, County Executive Jack Johnson said he would seek state assistance for restoration.
Court operations have been conducted at the site since 1720. The burned building was completed in 1881.
A cupola and columns added during renovations in the last century were damaged, but officials hope to salvage and restore them. Officials also hoped to find a bell used to sound the daily opening of court.