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Community Rallies Around Herkimer Diamond Mines’ Owner After Fire, New York

Published: October 23, 2017 |

[Click image to enlarge]

[Click image to enlarge]

Following a devastating fire a week ago, the owner of the Herkimer Diamond Mines is overwhelmed by the community response — locally and internationally.

“We have been completely overwhelmed with the response,” said Renee Shevat. “We always knew that Herkimer diamonds had a global impact, but it’s so heartwarming.”

Shevat’s family has owned the mines since 1979.

Shevat said she has received thousands of messages, from local, state, national and international sources in the last few days. Some are offering their sympathies and others are asking what they can do to help.

An early morning fire on Saturday, Oct. 14, gutted the mine’s museum and retail store, leaving little of the two-story structure standing. The mines, along with a restaurant and a KOA campground across the street were not damaged.

Seven fire departments responded to the blaze. Three volunteer firefighters that were staying at the campground also rushed to help. No one was injured.

Officials still are investigating the cause of the fire, but it is believed it will take weeks to make a final determination.

Shevat said she has received messages from area officials on the state and local level, the lieutenant governor and from local shop owners.

One area official that reached out was Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente Jr. He said he has known Shevat and her family for years.

“The diamond mine has been a staple in this region,” Picente said. “It’s one of the attractions of this region.”

Herkimer diamonds are well known nationally in part due to the gems being sold on the Home Shopping Network and internationally by being featured on QVC in Germany and Japan.

The Herkimer Diamond Mines were first opened in 1955, allowing visitors to dig for diamond-like quartz crystals, known as Herkimer Diamonds.

The camping area, restaurant and mining are open until Wednesday, Nov. 1.

Source: Observer-Dispatch


To stop by Herkimer’s website, CLICK HERE


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