Fire destroys historic building at Toccoa Falls College

TOCCOA FALLS - An early morning fire has destroyed a historic building at Toccoa Falls College.

The building known as Gate Cottage had been a part of the campus since 1939. At the time of the fire, it housed the School of Counseling at Toccoa Falls College, Gate Cottage Restaurant and Toccoa Falls Gift Shop.

An investigation continues into the cause of the blaze, which occurred about 2:30.

College officials say fire crews from the surrounding area worked through the early morning hours, but were unable to save the building. The building housed the School of Counseling, Gate Cottage Restaurant, and the Toccoa Falls Gift Shop.

The school released a statement saying "The college family is grateful that there was no loss of life or injury suffered in the building as it was unoccupied at the time. The campus is closed today as firefighting crews continue their work. The college is tremendously appreciative of the many calls, emails, and gestures of support already received."

Dr. Wayne Gardner, President of the College, expressed his appreciation for "the intense prayer support the college is receiving during this time."