HATTON, N.D. — The landscape of Hatton looks much different after one of the town’s elevators was reduced to rubble.

More than 100 first responders from Traill, Grand Forks and Steele counties battled the blaze that started Wednesday, Nov. 5, and took nearly 12 hours to put out. Winds continued to blow smoke into the sky over Hatton on Thursday.

“It’s really a tragedy. It’s been an important fixture here for many, many years,” said Hatton resident Steve Heskin.

Heskin believes the elevator on the north side of town was built in the 1940s and has had several owners over the years. He recalls hauling grain there in his farming days.

“Just a small-time farmer, but it was an important place for me,” he said.

The elevator, which was full of wheat, caught fire at about 3 p.m. Wednesday. Fla

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