ROCHELLE — This week marks the 52nd anniversary of a fire that destroyed the WRHL radio station studios and Builders Components factory, causing over $1.2 million in damage. The blaze, which broke out at 1:07 AM. on May 5th, 1973, rapidly consumed two-thirds of the 65,000-square-foot building. Firefighters from several local and regional departments battled the fire for hours, despite challenges with water supply and mechanical difficulties. Exploding cans of paint and strong winds fueled the flames, spreading burning debris as far as Hillcrest. Though the fire caused one injury and completely destroyed the radio station’s equipment, WRHL was back on the air in a couple of days after setting up a temporary studio in the back of a semi-trailer.
Photo Via Rochelle News Archives
