Historic Muskogee Furniture Store Destroyed By Overnight Fire

Muskogee firefighters are investigating a fire that destroyed a historic, family-owned furniture store. Many residents have stopped by today to see what is left of the antique store that has stood here for more than half a century. 

"I don't have the words sometimes other than to first pray for the McClain family," Muskogee Mayor Marlon Coleman said. 

McClain Furniture is a Muskogee family business that has been passed down from one generation to the next. 

"When a structure burns it's almost like history being wiped away,” Mayor Coleman said. 

Mayor Coleman said he is heartbroken because this store is a staple of the community. 

"This building was almost considered a tourist attraction. People would stop, take photos to see what was in the McClain building,” Mayor Coleman said. 

Mayor Coleman says there is no place like McClain’s. 

"In the backdrop now, the lion on the ground, the statue of the oilman, the bear, there were unique items in this store that you couldn't find and probably to this day can't find anywhere else,” Mayor Coleman said. 

Muskogee Commissioner Kenny Payne grew up in the city and said he remembers driving by McClain’s as a kid. 

"You're entering town, so you think 'Here's Muskogee' and for someone who lives here, 'There's McClain’s,'" Payne said. 

Assistant Fire Marshall Mike Haley said firefighters arrived on the scene just after 3:30 this morning to find the building engulfed in flames. Haley believes the fire may have started in the office area. His department will be out here the rest of the day dealing with hotspots and investigating the cause of the fire. 

“I'm always proud of our crew here. I mean, they never fail; they'll never fail this city," Haley said. 

Mayor Coleman said this is a loss the city will not easily overcome. 

"My prayer right now is that the Lord will find a way to give our city beauty for ashes,” Mayor Coleman said.  

 Muskogee Fire said one firefighter got overheated and was checked out by EMS but refused to be taken to the hospital.