Historic Allen Building in Lebanon Destroyed by Fire

A massive fire destroyed the historic Allen Building in Lebanon, Missouri, late Sunday night, rendering it a total loss. The building, formerly known as the Rice-Stix Building and a significant site for H.D. Lee jeans production, was over 100 years old and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Firefighters battled the blaze, but extensive damage led to immediate demolition orders due to safety concerns. Streets around the site have been closed as crews continue their work, and cadaver dogs were deployed to ensure no victims were trapped in the rubble, though none have been identified so far. Local officials expressed sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the building's cultural significance to the community. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Missouri State Fire Marshal.