Famed Hobby Store Remains Closed As Fire Scene Cleanup, Investigation Ensues In Manchester

MANCHESTER, CT — Though it was spared total destruction by a raging fire at an adjoining address, Time Machine Hobby, a staple of collectible and hobby enthusiasts in the region, has been forced to close indefinitely.

"We are closed until further notice, we look forward to seeing you again soon," said an upbeat message on Time Machine's Facebook Page.

The rear section of the parcel, at Nos. 71 and 75 Hilliard St. in Manchester, lay in ruins Thursday morning. The smell of smoke was still lingering.

The fire broke out at At 3:23 p.m. Wednesday.

Multiple calls reported a large fire on Hilliard Street, first identified as a house and then confirmed to be 75 Hilliard St., which is the same building as Time Machine Hobby. The fire broke out in a rear address, attached to the 40,000 square foot old mill building, originally built in 1888, fire officials said. Heavy fire could be seen in the rear occupancy, extending out multiple windows and the roof, they said.

Two people were in the building at the time and were able to escape without injury, fire officials said.

Manchester firefighters initiated an aggressive fire attack and, during their efforts, a "significant collapse"occurred that brought down the roof and second floors at the rear of the property," fire officials said. A pile of bricks could be seen where the structure once stood.

"Luckily, the fire was contained to the initial occupancy and Time Machine Hobby is largely undamaged," fire officials said. Still, a restoration company was at the property Thursday and a sign on the door said 71 Hilliard was "unsafe" at the moment.

The local fire marshal's office and building department are investigating the scene.

No injuries were reported.

On Wednesday evening, heavy equipment was requested to dismantle the collapse, fire officials said.

Hilliard Street was closed for the work.

The building daters back to 1888 and was the home of Bon Ami, which made eco-friendly cleaning products before the term was fashionable. It's famed chick logo told customers the products left no scratches.