Fire destroys historic home

By Nathan Mayberg
VERNON — A Vernon woman was left homeless after her home, built by one of the town's first settlers, was totaled in a fast-moving fire Thursday morning.

Joan Magura lost nearly everything after the blaze gutted her house at 5 Sleepy Hollow Road. She was not injured.

The fire, which was reported at about 11:45 a.m., started in the basement of the wood-paneled home, Sussex County Fire Marshal Joe Inga said.

Magura noticed smoke from behind the furnace and oil burner in the basement, Vernon Police Dept. Lt. Brian Jernick said.

The fire is not believed to be suspicious, they said.

The home was full engulfed by the time firefighters arrived, Jernick said.

Responding to the fire were the Vernon Township. Highland Lakes, McAfee, Pochuk Valley, Hardyston, Sussex and Pine Island. Nobody was injured during the firefighting efforts.

The home was built by Israel Sammis, one of the town's first settlers, in 1786. The year 1786 was posted above the door of the home.

Magura's insurance company has found a room at a local hotel for her to stay at while she finds temporary housing.

Magura is a past president of the Vernon Township Historical Society.

Vernon Township Historical Society President Jessi Paladini is leading efforts to funds to help Magura.

"It's a shame that we lost one of our most historic homes," Paladini said.

"It's a devastating loss."
In a Facebook posting by the Vernon Township Historical Society, Magura was said to need clothing and other household items. She can use size 7 shoes or boots, size 5 pants, size medium shirts and size 7 coat.

Magura was said to have "raised all of her children in that house and is completely devastated by this loss. As president of the Historical Society, Joan did much for her community. Hopefully, her community can give something back to her now."

Those looking to assist Magura can contact Paladini at 973-764-6545 or by emailing vernonhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.