A fire devastated a beloved local landmark in the Dry Creek Community on Wednesday. The historic Dry Creek School building, known locally as "The White House", was consumed in a fire on Wednesday Feb 17, 2021.

There have been no reports of anyone harmed in the fire, but the building was considered to be a total loss. 

Those who wish to help the Dry Creek Baptist Camp in their time of need, can donate to their official GoFundMe page. 

On Thursday, The Dry Creek Baptist Camp issued the following statements on their official Facebook Page in regards to the loss of the White House, and their fundraising effort going forward:

"Friends, by now many of you have heard our sad, sad news about the loss of the White House. The past year has been one of the hardest in the history of our camp, and though we rejoice in the hope we have in Christ, we lament the losses we have seen. Would you join us in praying for encouragement for our staff and that we would be able to resume ministry soon? If you are able, would you also prayerfully consider giving to our camp so we can continue that ministry? Thank you!"

Started in 1912 and 1920, the White House served as Dry Creek High School for decades. In more recent times, the White House is was a part of the Dry Creek Baptist Camp, where many locals attended camps over the years in their youth. The White House was even recognized on the official National Register of Historic Places. The building has ties that run deep into the local community as local residents were shocked and saddened at its loss. 

The following excerpt comes from the description of the official GoFundMe page and describes the Dry Creek Baptist Camp's fundraising effort in more detail:

"The heart of Dry Creek Baptist Camp is to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with thousands of campers yearly, through weekend retreats and summer camps.  The White House was central to the work done each year at the camp by housing summer staff, ministers, and worship teams.  The year 2020 was financially difficult for the Camp due to the pandemic canceling all summer camps, their primary source of income. Then, this fall, the Camp received significant damage from the hurricanes.  Although the camp has insurance to cover the loss of the building itself, this loss will have a significant impact on the Camp's future ability to generate income. We know this ministry is close to many of our hearts, and now we have an opportunity to give back and help Dry Creek Baptist Camp continue its ministry. If you feel led, please donate to this campaign and share on any social media platform you use.  Donations go directly to help Dry Creek Baptist Camp continue to share the Gospel for generations to come and are 100% tax deductible."

To donate to the fundraiser, log on to www.gofundme.com and search for "White House Dry Creek Loss."

This article originally appeared on Leesville Daily Leader: GoFundMe set up for Dry Creek Baptist Camp