Destruction Of The Old Congress Hall

Philadelphia, May 22.- The most disastrous firo in West Phüadelphia since the destruction oí the Pullman Car shops three years ago occurred when the old Congress hall, of Centennial fame, was destroyed. The building was of brick four-stories high and oceupied by the Belmont Iron company. After the Centennial the building was empty for a long time, but in 1882 the firm of Manly & Cooper took possession of it. Twomonths ago the Belmont Iron company succeeded the Manly -Cooper company. The firm was doing a rushing business, and gave work to about 150 men. F. H. Taylor, president of the company, states that the total loss on the building, machinery and stock will reach $70,000; almost fully covered by insurance.