A fire that began early Tuesday morning, February 23rd, consumed 4 downtown buildings by fire before being contained. The Vandalia Fire Department, with assistance from Ramsey and Brownstown Fire Departments were on the scene for more than 12 hours fighting the flames and smoldering rubble.
Buildings/Businesses affected were:
Cages Bar (formerly The Hi-Hat)
Donaldson's Carpet (former location of Sears)
Gathe's Tax & Accounting
State Farm Insurance
Withstanding smoke & water damage to their building were the offices of Vandalia GMAC Real Estate & Bray Title Services.

The majority of displaced businesses are looking at alternative locations in Downtown Vandalia. Check back often; as more information becomes available, it will be posted here.