Shoreham’s 200 Year Old Newton Academy Lost To Fire
By Sandy Koorda
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In the wake of a fast moving, late-night thunder storm, the Newton Academy – that was home to a nursery school and the Shorewell Clinic – was believed to have been struck by lightning shortly before 1 AM. Upon arrival, first firefighters on-scene were reporting that flames were through the roof of the three story building, and by 4 AM, it was clear that the once historic structure was a complete loss. Yet due to the valiant efforts of the Shoreham, Orwell, Cornwall, Whiting and Bridport fire departments, (who were also aided by Vergennes Fire Department’s ladder truck) - a nearby dwelling, the elementary school and 2 school buses were protected from harm.
Shoreham First Response and Middlebury Ambulance also responded, and were on stand-by.
Like the fabled ancient Phoenix that rises up out of its ashes, so will the Shorewell Clinic, a sorely needed provider of local medical care. Although all was lost in the fire, the Voice spoke directly with Dr. Curtiss on Saturday April 10th. he stated emphatically that he is not retiring as previously reported. the clinic is scheduled to reopen Monday, April 19th. at the former Dewitt Blake Insurance Building next to the Shoreham Post Office on Route 74 West. Patients are urged to contact June at 897-2163 or the clinic at 897-2673 to schedule or reschedule all appointments.