CommunityRallies Around UnWined On The Water Staff After Devastating $1M Elkton Waterfront Fire

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

A beloved Maryland waterfront restaurant may be gone, but the community it built is showing it’s nowhere near finished.

UnWined on the Water — a local staple at Triton Marina in Cecil County known for its views, live music, and tight-knit staff — was destroyed in a fast-moving early-morning fire on Thursday, Nov. 6. 

Now, as the owners and employees face a total loss, neighbors, musicians, customers, and businesses across Maryland are stepping up to help the people who made the place feel like home.

According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the fire broke out just before 1:40 a.m. at 285 Plum Point Road. Maryland State Police troopers arrived first and found heavy fire spreading through the rear of the two-story waterfront restaurant.

Crews from Singerly Fire Company and multiple surrounding departments battled intense flames and strong winds for nearly two hours, investigators said. 

The wind pushed the fire rapidly through the building, collapsing the roof and both interior floors. Heavy equipment had to be brought in so firefighters could tear apart massive sections of debris.

The Fire Marshal said video surveillance showed the fire began around 1:10 a.m. and that no people or vehicles were seen on the property beforehand. 

Investigators emphasized that “there is no evidence of a criminal act, and all potential accidental causes are being considered.”

The restaurant was deemed a total loss with more than $1 million in damage.

In the days since, UnWined’s owners, staff, musicians, and regulars have been flooded with support — and they’re saying so publicly.

UnWined on the Water shared a heartfelt message thanking customers for the “texts, messages, emails, and calls."

“Please keep our UnWined family in your thoughts and prayers. Many great people work hard to help you create memories here that you’ll look back on for a lifetime. Not only do I consider them family, but I consider all of you family as well.”

They promised updates as rebuilding conversations begin.

“Let’s all look forward to the day we will gather here again, gaze upon a new and improved UnWined on the Water, and dance until we can’t dance anymore!”

Staff, many of whom suddenly lost their source of income, inspired supporters to launch a GoFundMe specifically for employees.

“After a devastating fire on November 6th, the staff of UnWined on the Water is in need of our help," Samantha Seider wrote. 

"Many are still looking for other work and suffering great financial loss. Let's all rally together to lift them up and show what community truly means," she added. "No amount is too small to help the wonderful staff of UotW!”

Others have stepped up with job offers, benefits, and calls for collective action.

“If you are offering or know of any available jobs, resources, etc, please message us with that information as we begin working to secure positions for every person that has been affected," another post from UnWined on the Water read. "All of our wonderful staff come highly recommended.”

Local businesses have also jumped in, with Route 24 Ale House announcing a major fundraiser.

“Join us Thursday, Nov. 13, from 5–7 pm at Route 24 Ale House as we come together to help their amazing team. 100 percent of all proceeds during this time will be donated directly to the staff of UnWined on the Water.”

Musicians who played at the waterfront venue are also sharing their support.

“Just saw news about Unwined on the Water burning down last night," Smith & Jensen, Full Sound Duo posted. "That’s horrible — such a great place to visit and great place to play as well! Our hearts go out to the staff and owner that work so hard to make it be that great place! Hope we see it return in future!”

And Seider, who launched the GoFundMe, made a direct appeal:

A "Staff Benefit Night" was also scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 22 at Grounded Coffee Co.

For the restaurant, the community’s response has been overwhelming — and a reminder of the impact the place had on locals far beyond the waterfront.

UnWined summed it up best in its own message to customers.

“Without all of you, UnWined isn’t possible.”