Edna “Pud” and Jody Searson and several of their children lost clothes, furnishings, pictures and many other items. But most of all they lost their 1½-story home, which they had built together.
The Snelling Fire Department and the Red Oak, Long Branch and Barnwell rural departments were called to the scene about 7:30 p.m. The Barnwell City Fire Department also sent its ladder truck to assist in fighting the large fire.
Authorities said firefighters battled the blaze for more than six hours and were called back to the scene shortly after 10 a.m. Tuesday after the fire rekindled.
The cause of the fire has not been determined, said Snelling Assistant Fire Chief Neal Morris.
Morris said it appeared the fire started in the upstairs game room area. The fire was halfway across the roof line when his department arrived, he said.
Although several members of the family were home when the fire started, no one was injured.
Donation drop-off locations are being established and will be posted.
