On this date in 1972, Frank Conlin, a Fargo Democrat, vowed to continue his 21st District North Dakota Senate race despite a devastating fire that destroyed his furniture store and campaign materials.

Here is the complete story as it appeared in the paper that day:

Democratic candidate for the North Dakota Senate Frank Conlin of Fargo said today that the fire that destroyed his furniture store two weeks ago will not force him to discontinue his election campaign.

Although the $300,000 fire resulted in a total loss of his business stock and election campaign materials, he said at a press conference that this “business crisis” has reinforced his decision to run for political office.

“After careful consideration of all the factors and discussions with my family and staff, I have decided t

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