The Kingsgate home of Laurie and Teddy Mahood was severely damaged by fire after being struck by lightning around 10:30 p.m. May 30. Their neighbour, Dave Simpkins, saw the lightning strike the home’s roof.
The Yahk Kingsgate Volunteer Fire Department and the Eastport, Idaho, Hall Mountain Volunteer Fire Department responded to the fire, containing the fire to the roof and upper floor, which were destroyed. A travel trailer parked beside the home was also saved, as were nearby chickens and chicks.
“People, pets and chickens are all safe,” said Laurie. “The rest is just stuff.”
Some of their possessions were rescued, though, from the uninsured home. Both are sculptors, and neighbours formed a “bucket brigade” to help rescue 60 pieces — worth about $50,000 — of Teddy’s West Coast native artwork, which he plans to sell to recover enough to start over. Also rescued were the couple’s medications, Laurie’s green silk wedding dress (a 1520’s German Renaissance gown with pearls and garnets) and her digital camera.
Lost, however were Laurie’s professional medium format camera system, a large collection of fabrics and birthday presents hidden for Teddy’s 71st birthday on June 7.
The Mahoods plan to rebuild their house, and will hold art shows in the near future to raise the funds.
”I’m just so thankful for all the wonderful neighbors who helped us, for the fire departments from Yahk-Kingsgate and Mount Hall, and the Creston police,” said Laurie.
For more information, contact Laurie at 250-550-8202 or visit MahoodSculptures.com.