Historic Business Destroyed by Fire in Ontario County
An Ontario community is showing sympathy towards a local business owner following a devastating fire that destroyed the Ryerse Garden Gallery in Simcoe. This business has been serving the community since 1912.
On June 20, around 4:30 a.m., fire crews responded to a call about a structure fire on Norfolk Street, as shared by fire chief Gord Stilwell in an email to The Epoch Times.
“Upon arrival, the first responding crews encountered a fully involved structure fire,” he mentioned.
A total of forty firefighters from five stations nearby quickly responded, and Mr. Stilwell commended their efforts in containing the fire and minimizing the damage.
The fire caused no injuries and fortunately, there was no one inside the building at the time. The Ontario Provincial Police also assisted by managing the traffic in the area for emergency response.
At this time, there is no estimate available for the extent of the damage.
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A statement on the Ryerse’s Flowers shop website mentioned the business’s unfortunate loss due to a fire, resulting in extensive damages to their facilities. They assured to provide updates as soon as possible.
“We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult period,” the statement read.
The current owner of the shop is David Rusling. Ryerse’s Flowers, established in 1912, is a family-run business with a single location catering to all of Norfolk County, as detailed on their website.
The Ryerse name traces back to the late 1700s when Samuel Ryerse (also known as Ryerson) settled in the area with his family. He established a sawmill and a grist-mill, marking the origins of Port Ryerse.
Various members of the community, including MP Leslyn Lewis, have shared their sentiments regarding the incident.
“Our community faced a tragic event overnight,” she expressed in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “Haldimand-Norfolk residents stand in solidarity with the Rusling family and the entire team at Ryerse’s Flowers during this time.”
Karen Matthews, the executive director of the local Chamber of Commerce, also offered words of support for the affected business.
“Our hearts are with Dave, his family, and the team at Ryerse’s Garden Gallery, a long-standing pillar of our community,” she expressed in an email to The Epoch Times. “We mourn this loss together.”
Norfolk County Mayor Amy Martin conveyed her sorrow upon hearing the news.
“Our condolences go out to the Rusling family and employees at this time. Norfolk stands ready to assist them whenever needed,” she added. “We extend our gratitude to the first responders for ensuring the safety of our community, with no reported injuries.”
