Granville Elementary in Washington County nearly destroyed by fire, investigators suspect arson

CALIFORNIA, Pa. — A historic elementary school in Washington County that was built in the early 1900s was nearly destroyed by flames on Saturday night.

Officials say a portion will have to be completely torn down.

Investigators believe this could be arson.

“It just looked like a ball of fire,” said Frances Wolfe.

Wolfe was babysitting on Saturday evening when officers came banging on the door telling her to get out. When she came outside, she saw the old Granville Elementary School engulfed in flames and smoke billowing from the windows.

“We got evacuated at 6:30 p.m. and I know they didn’t leave here until almost 11 p.m. and then they were back yesterday,” Wolfe said.

Eight fire departments worked for several hours to battle the fire before getting the flames out.

“I just stood there for a minute and said, ‘Whoa, This is a wall fire, this one will go on the wall,’” said Fire Chief Tom Hartley Jr.

The historic school was built in 1910, with an addition added in 1916.

“I went to kindergarten here,” Hartley said.

While it was empty at the time of the fire, it was rich with history and design. We asked the chief if the building will be torn down. He said that’s up to the owners.

“The right side of it has to be torn down. The stairs are gone, the roof is gone,” Hartley said.

“I’m glad it is out, and I am just glad nobody got hurt,” Wolfe said.

California Borough Police are investigating and charges may be forthcoming.

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