Friends of Timberline raise funds for restoration of lodge roof

While the fire damage was minimal in the historic Timberline Lodge on Thursday, April 18, repairs and restoration are needed. To help fund this work, the Friends of Timberline are collecting donations.

The group put out a call Sunday, April 21, to its email list, acknowledging that many people had already reached out to ask how they could offer support to restore the roof where the fire took place.

Supporters can submit donations for the fire clean-up, restoration and preservation process online at tinyurl.com/yc8xd2vz .

“Donations for the lodge’s roof restoration are crucial,” Friends of Timberline said in its email. “Damage was limited to central areas and the fire was extinguished quickly, but a project of this scale requires private donations and support. 100% of your donation is tax deductible, and all proceeds from this fund will go to roof repairs, restoration and clean-up efforts, including preservation of historical artworks and artifacts.”

A brief recap:

It was around 9:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18, when a staffer at Timberline Lodge reported a fire in the headhouse attic and its exterior roof area. All hotel guests and staff were evacuated. Scores of firefighters made their way up the mountain to combat the three-alarm blaze. Fortunately for all involved, there was minimal damage and no injuries.

Fire crews from Hoodland Fire, Clackamas Fire, Gresham Fire and Estacada Fire responded to protect the building. First responders extinguished the fire by 11 p.m.

Guests were welcomed back to the lodge on Sunday, April 21.

“The process, communication and containment saved the Historic Timberline Lodge from what could have been a much worse outcome,” the lodge wrote in an statement Following the fire.

There is an ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire, led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Forest Service. That investigation led to the closure of the lodge and ski area Friday, April 19. Fire investigators say preliminary thoughts are that fireplace embers ignited the roof.

According to the lodge, the damage is “somewhat minimal, with water contained in the headhouse and lobby areas and no internal fire or smoke damage.”

Power was restored once the fire was out, and guests were relocated offsite.

“First responder and Timberline staff efforts have been nothing short of remarkable during a very difficult time,” said John Burton, Timberline’s director of marketing and public affairs. “The successful recovery is because of their dedication. The deepest appreciation is not only extended from everyone here at the Historic Lodge, but by past, present and future visitors.“