Firefighter Charles Dillon of Ayer pauses from chainsawing to survey the scene as flames lap out of the roof below. He cut through the roof of the Harvard Historical Society in Still River after a blaze broke out Tuesday morning.

Ayer Captain Timothy Johnston climbs down after breaking through the roof to expose the flames.

Fire Chief Bob Mignard (center) surveys the damage on the north side of the building as firefighters continue to gain control of the blaze.

Deborah Skauen-Hinchliffe and Carol Kapolka carry an antique dresser out of the Historical Society to dry on the lawn.

DPW Director Rich Nota removes artifacts from the building. Neighbors and town employees  were quick to jump in to help with rescue efforts.

Firefighters' coats rest on granite pillars in front of the Historical Society after the fire was put out.

Trucks from 10 towns includng Harvard respond to the scene.

The Boston Post cane—one of many artifacts rescued—was historically given to the oldest resident in town.