Fire Guts Italian-American Club In Phoenixville

PHOENIXVILLE, PA —A fast-moving blaze gutted the inside and severely damaged the roof of Santa Anna Italian-American Club, 442 Dayton St.

The blaze broke out just after midnight Wednesday and was under control within 45 minutes, fire officials said.

A damage estimate was not yet available.

An air of sadness pervaded Friday morning as several club officers were outside waiting for insurance adjusters to arrive.

“It’s horrible,” one of the officers, who declined to be identified, said. "It’s so sad.”

The club, founded in 1936, provided a special place for Italian Americans to socialize and share their heritage.

The club members Friday said that membership has been dwindling since the pandemic broke out in 2019, noting that private social clubs generally are losing members.

They said breweries are growing in popularity in the borough. The club provided food, catering, and rental space for social gatherings.

According to Phoenixville Fire Company:

The fire company was alerted by a caller just after midnight that flames were coming from the roof.

Fire Chief Eamon C. Brazunas requested assistance from nearby fire departments and ambulance services.

The chief said the building suffered major smoke, fire, and water damage.

Ridge Fire Company and Paoli Fire Company manned the Phoenixville station.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Chester County Fire Marshal’s office.
Berwyn, Black Rock, Kimberton, Liberty, Royersford, and Valley Forge fire companies were at the scene.

Aid was also provided by Chester County Emergency Services, TowerDirect EMA, and UPT Fire and Emergency Services.

Firefighters were on the scene for 13 hours.