Concord Historic Mansion Fire Ruled 'Tragic Accident'

CONCORD, MA — The massive fire that leveled a historic, multi-million dollar mansion in Concord on Friday was ruled an accident. The fire started in the chimney, according to a statement released Monday by State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Concord Fire Chief Thomas M. Judge.

The blaze at 240 Fairhaven Hill Road burned for hours on end, with firefighters putting out hot spots into Saturday morning. Investigators determined that a fire in the fireplace extended from inside the chimney through a breach in the mortar. This allowed super-heated gases to escape and ignite structural components. As crews battled the fire, flames and plumes of smoke shot out of the roof and windows.

The home, which is over 6,500 square feet and appraised at nearly $3 million, is a total loss.

“We’re confident the fireplace was used in a correct and appropriate manner by the occupants of the home, and that this was a tragic accident," Chief Judge said.

Getting the fire under control and extinguished was made more difficult by the lack of access to free flowing water. The only hydrant connected to the town water line is down the hill from the estate, on Fairhaven Road. The neighborhood had a cistern installed that holds 30,000 gallons of water but fire crews worked through the tank quickly.

There were no injuries.

The sprawling estate was built in 1899 for Charles Francis Adams III, great-grandson of President John Quincy Adams. The mansion holds historic significance, not only through it's connection to the Adams' family but as one of the first large country estates not associated with farming in the town. The Adams' family called the home "Mount Vernon."