NEW BRITAIN, CT - A historic building known as the Frederick Whittlesey House, built in 1881, was heavily damaged by fire on March 8th.

Firefighters arrived at 9 Grove Hill around 2:15 A.M., with heavy fire on the first floor in the rear of the building and extending to the second floor. Firefighters had to evacuate the building as fire raced up through the walls and took over the third floor and attic. A strong wind at times helped fan the flames.

The cause is under investigation.