Fire breaks out at historic Mote Morris House in Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla. — Fire crews from Leesburg and Lake County worked to save a local landmark that caught fire Tuesday morning.

The fire, which started after 2 a.m. Tuesday, burned a hole through the Mote Morris House at 1195 West Magnolia Street in Leesburg.

"It's like a punch in the gut quite frankly," said Sandi Moore, with the Leesburg Chamber of Commerce.

The home was built in 1892 and is part of the national register of historic places.

The home was moved in 1990 from North Main Street to its current location. Weddings and several other events are held at the venue, according to its Facebook page.

"You know, it's just devastating. It's devastating for the community. It's just a sad day," Moore said.

The city is assessing whether the building should be condemned.

The Leesburg Chamber of Commerce, which was held at the Mote Morris House, will relocate to the city's business incubator building at 600 Market Street.

No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Watch below: Fire damages Mote Morris house:

Raw video: Fire at Mote Morris House A fire damaged portions of the Mote Morris House in Leesburg.

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