Cause of Salem fire that leveled historic home remains under investigation

SALEM — A Charles Burchfield painting will now be used to show the home across the street from the artist’s childhood residence.

Dick Wootten, who has been the director and the president of the Burchfield Homestead Society, said today that the artist had painted the house at 850 E. Fourth St. at least four times.

The 110-year-old frame house burned down Thursday afternoon. The vacant house was owned by Courtney Realty.

Salem Fire Department Captain Shawn Mesler said the state fire marshal’s office, Columbia Gas, and the Public Utilities Commission are investigating.

For the complete story, see Saturday's Vindicator and Vindy.com