The 38,000-acre Borel fire in Kern County has destroyed the historic mining town of Havilah.

The fire, which started in Kern River canyon and spread quickly due to strong winds, ravaged Havilah on Friday night, leaving almost the entire town in ruins.

Resident Sean Rains reported that nearly everything in the town was lost, though some buildings, including the town hall, were saved with the help of local residents.

The fire also reduced the town’s historical museum to rubble, with only a commemorative plaque remaining.

Havilah, an unincorporated community with about 250 people northeast of Bakersfield, is now undergoing damage assessment by fire crews, AOL.com has reported.

Kern County Fire Department Chief Deputy Dionisio Mitchell expressed sympathy for the affected residents and acknowledged the severity of the loss.

Written by B.C. Begley