Will County Gazette

The Patrick Haley Mansion in the South Center area of Joliet was damaged Wednesday afternoon by a fire that caused no reported injuries but triggered an ongoing investigation, according to NBC 5 Chicago.

Pending the outcome of this investigation, there is no official cause known for the fire. Although the blaze was under control in approximately 40 minutes, firefighters remained at the scene and put out hot spots for hours, the article said, adding experts are assessing the full extent of the damage. 

Salvaging this landmark is a key concern for the Joliet community. Many a wedding has taken place inside this 1890s structure, which Joliet residents associate with not only special occasions but local culture and history.

Robert Hernandez, who witnessed the fire, told authorities that he could see smoke pouring out of the building while the fire raged on. He expressed the hope that the mansion can be saved and restored to its original splendor for all to enjoy.

“There were so many people coming out here on the scene that were here with the historic preservation committee that were crying because of the historic significance to the city of Joliet,” Hernandez said. “In my own mind, I was praying this wouldn’t be the last we see of the Haley Mansion, because it means so much to the residents of Joliet.”

The Haley Mansion's website announces the venue's temporary closure due to a fire and directs the public to its Facebook page for more information and updates. It also describes the history of the mansion which the mayor of Joliet envisioned in 1889 to be a "grand castle overlooking the rolling hills and the beautiful waterfront." 

The Haley Mansion's Facebook page said on Feb. 4 that the renovation and restoration will take several months with the most severe damage in the third-floor hospitality suite. 

"We would like to thank the city of Joliet's first responders for their expedient response," an earlier Facebook post said. Thanks also extended to the community for its support and prayers.