The bright red caboose that sits at the intersection of Cedar Avenue and 4th Street, west of the railroad tracks in Marysville, suffered substantial damage in an accidental fire Sunday, July 19.

The fire apparently started outside the building, according to Parks maintenance manager Mike Robinson, although the origin and cause were not yet known.

The caboose is owned by the city's Parks and Recreation Department, and has been used by Maryfest, the organization that produces the annual Strawberry Festival, for several years. Although the interior space was small, the volunteer organization functioned efficiently from the central location.

"We're so grateful to the fire department for their quick response as well as their help in moving some items out of the caboose," said Maryfest vice president Angie Miller. Volunteer John Hiatt and Parks director Jim Ballew also helped empty the office.

"At this point, we can say the fire is suspicious, because we don't know what caused it," said Robinson. "All we know is that our facility is damaged."

Parks and city officials were meeting with an insurance adjuster this week to establish a damage estimate. Preliminary reports put the estimate at $7,500.

In the meantime, Maryfest is looking for alternate office space. Much of the office sustained either fire, smoke or water damage.

"We don't need a lot of space," said Miller. "But we are still traveling with the float to other locations and have already started planning for next year's festival."

If you can help Maryfest find a new home, e-mail Miller at angiem@maryfest.com.

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