Excerpts from nbcchicago.com:

An iconic venue in Joliet was damaged by a fire on Wednesday afternoon, with an investigation currently underway after the blaze.

According to officials, the fire at the Patrick Haley Mansion, located in the first block of South Center, broke out Wednesday afternoon while staff were preparing for an event.

The fire was brought under control within 40 minutes, and firefighters remained on scene for several hours putting out hot spots.

The mansion, built in the 1890’s, is a popular venue for weddings and other events, and Joliet residents say it is an important part of their city’s history.