Local historical landmark empathize with Notre Dame tragedy

A Good Friday procession was held in Paris Friday. Parisians carried centuries-old religious treasures that were saved from the Notre Dame fire.

But, as many artifacts and artwork that was saved, there are pieces of France’s religious history that will be lost forever.

This tragedy reminds us to appreciate a precious piece of history right here in our community and how the fear of a natural disaster is something historic institutions around the world think about every day.

The Sanguinetti House Museum is considered the jewel of historic Yuma.

Built in the 19th century, the artifacts within the home span from the late-1800s to mid-1900s.

Yanna Kruse, vice president of guest experience at the Arizona Historical Society, understands how just irreplaceable the pieces of history are.

Kruse said, “Some type of devastating threat such as fire, which is what we would view as the highest risk that we have here…the artifacts would be gone forever. It truly would be an emotional loss to not only the Arizona Historical Society but to the community and state of Arizona.”

Kruse feels it’s a privilege and responsibility to ensure the Sanguinetti House is here for generations to come.

That’s why they take precautions to lower the risks of damage, like avoiding the use of fire, making sure electrical outlets aren’t overused, and complying with standard safety law.

Interestingly, Paris police investigators said they think it was an electrical short-circuit that most likely caused the fire at the Notre Dame.

The Sanguinetti House Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.