In March 2005, a late winter blizzard snuck up on the central Massachusetts town of Charlton. A fire broke out in a sawmill on the outskirts of Charlton, on Berry Corner Road, which proved quite a challenge for members of the Charlton Fire Department.

Water supply was difficult to establish, and heavy snow and wind contributed to the fire's spread. Additionally, the fire had a head start because the owner of the mill attempted to extinguish the blaze before calling the fire department.

The fire consumed the sawmill, as well as a couple vehicles and some equipment that was stored inside.

Photo by Alan Brackett