Abandoned historic structure near Brotherhood Bridge destroyed by fire

Ruins of building are among the remnants from Juneau’s original dairy farms

Firefighters work to contain a fire at an abandoned structure near the intersection of Sherwood Lane and Glacier Highway on Thursday, June 18, 2026. (Capital City Fire/Rescue photo)

By Mark Sabbatini

Juneau Independent

An abandoned building in a meadow near the Brotherhood Bridge, which was among the historic remnants of the Juneau’s original dairy farms that originated more than a century ago, was destroyed by a fire Thursday afternoon, according to Capital City Fire/Rescue.

Firefighters responded after multiple people reported a large column of smoke near the intersection of Sherwood Lane and Glacier Highway, according to a CCFR Facebook post.

"Initial reports indicated smoke and fire coming from an old homestead building," the post states. "Responding units observed a significant smoke column while en route. Upon arrival, crews found an abandoned structure heavily involved in fire."

"Firefighters worked quickly to contain the fire and prevent extension to surrounding vegetation and nearby exposures. Due to the visible smoke column, the incident generated significant attention from residents in the area. Unfortunately, the structure was a complete loss. No injuries were reported."

The cause of the fire is under investigation, according to CCFR.

The remnants of a building from one of Juneau’s original dairy farms after a fire on Thursday, June 18, 2026. (Laurie Craig / Juneau Independent)

A 2023 "Curious Juneau" feature by KTOO states the site is where the ruins of two wooden houses affiliated with Juneau’s long-ago dairy industry stood. The story notes "the industry began in earnest in the early 1900s" and the last dairy closed in 1965.

• Contact Mark Sabbatini at editor@juneauindependent.com or (907) 957-2306.