Pauls Valley History, Memories Lost in Fire

By Colleen Chen, NEWS 9

PAULS VALLEY, Oklahoma -- A fire in downtown Pauls Valley destroyed two businesses Tuesday afternoon. Firefighters battled the blaze and hot spots for almost 5 hours.

Firefighters said the fire began on the 100 block of S Chickasha. Precision Driving and Honest Bus Pawn Shop were destroyed by the blaze. Both buildings were over 100-years-old.

Downtown Pauls Valley Fire

Many residents believe they lost not only their favorite businesses, but pieces of history.

Like many small downtowns in our state, the buildings are old and filled with years of memories. Downtown Pauls Valley is no different. The day's fire destroyed what was Oklahoma's oldest remaining pawn shop.

"It was part of the family. I can't imagine such a fine building go down like that," Honest Bus Pawn Shop Owner Joan Hunter said.

Historical Society curator Adrienne Grimmett said the building's been in Pauls Valley longer than most memories. Built back in 1898, it was many things before it ever became Honest Bus Pawn Shop.

"You just look at these panorama pictures of Pauls Valley and all the buildings are still here," Grimmett said.

The Hunter family said they're not sure if they'll try to open up their pawn shop at a different location.

There were no reports of injuries from the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.