Firefighters returned Friday morning to extinguish hotspots after a fire rekindled at Harewood Farm in Sandy Spring, following a destructive blaze that was initially contained Wednesday night.
Roughly 75 firefighters responded to the original incident, finding heavy fire throughout the two-story farmhouse. The property, located in a non-hydrant area about 4,000 to 5,000 feet from Olney-Sandy Spring Road, sustained significant damage. Initial reports suggested a possible missing occupant, prompting a full search of the structure; it was later confirmed the home was unoccupied at the time. No injuries were reported. The fire was determined to be accidental, though the specific cause remains undetermined.
According to the Library of Congress, Harewood was built in 1793–1794 and served as the homestead of the influential Stabler family. One of the few surviving homes built by the founding Quaker families of Sandy Spring, it reflects the hall-and-parlor plan common at the time and features timber frame construction and simple detailing consistent with Quaker values. In 1925, it was purchased by Dean Acheson, Secretary of State under President Truman, who occasionally hosted the president at the home during his tenure. The house retains much of its original character and is considered a rare and significant example of early regional architecture.
Sandy Spring, MD — Aerial view of 17600 Meeting House Rd this morning, where the structure rekindled following Wednesday’s fire. @mcfrsPIO @HHFireProds @ArmisteadIsaac @mcfrs #mcfrs @MoCoFireWire @Lawzfirephotos @command11b pic.twitter.com/W48yEGuiex
— MyDrone.Pro (@MyDronePro) June 20, 2025