BRIDGEVILLE, N.Y.-- A popular eatery in Sullivan County for more than 60 years, the Old Homestead Restaurant, brings back fond memories for many in the community.
"It has nostalgia and when that's gone you're lost," said Lenora Egan, from Grahamsville.
"A terrible terrible loss a lot of us in the community have gone here for many many years," said Kevin Rieber with the Rock Hill Fire Department.
The Fire started around 10 p.m. Wednesday, and officials say it quickly spread throughout the building. More than 150 firefighters spent more than nine hours battling the flames in frigid temperatures.
"It was a tough fire because of the cold we had lines you know the water that was freezing," said Rock Hill Fire Department Assistant Chief Kris Gwiozdowski.
But despite their best efforts, firefighters were not able to save the landmark restaurant.
"The Old Homestead it's known all through New York, New York City anybody that’s come to the Catskills," said Rieber.
Sullivan County fire investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the fire.
"It's a staple for people in the community. It's just going to be sadly missed," said Ruth Curley, of Hurleyville.