Investigation, Salvage Work Continue at Rebel’s Rest

by Kevin Cummings, Messenger Staff Writer

The University of the South re-opened Rebel’s Rest to fire investigators on Aug. 11 and continued to try to save as much as possible from the remnants.

Late on July 23, fire destroyed the second floor of the 148-year-old house, and the first floor suffered smoke and water damage. Investigators from the University’s insurance company and the contractor’s insurance company are seeking the cause of the blaze. The building was undergoing renovations at the time of the fire.

Laurie Saxton, the University’s director of media relations, said there is no timeline for a conclusion to the investigation, but salvage work is ongoing.

“Because we opened it back up this week for investigations anyway, the University is removing a few more pieces that were physically attached to the building,” Saxton said. “What’s still there is still there, and we are just not sure how much is going to be able to be used going forward.”

Items removed this week from the building include fireplace mantles and a chandelier, she said. Workers had already removed some furniture and art following the fire. Restoration experts, including an art conservator, are determining what items can be saved.

Saxton said the community and alumni will be updated as the recovery and restoration continue.