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Meadowood is burning. The messages were hard to believe. But these photographs from Twitter confirm it, as neighbors of the famous Resort share with each other memories of the place which are never to be repeated. The fire first swept uncontrolled through St. Helena, then raced down the valley to Meadowood, where fire-fighters were unable to save the main buildings.

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Napa Valley, California, was the site of croquet's first resort: Meadowwood. It's a victim of the Glass fire.

Napa Valley, California, was the site of croquet's first resort: Meadowwood. It's a victim of the Glass fire.

This green was just south of the croquet lawn, slightly up the hill, to the left.

The pros at Meadowood were among the first in America, imported from the Commonwealth countries: Damon Bidencope was the Ozzie pro at Meadowood in the time when the biggest purses in croquet were awarded at several prestigious events. Then Jerry Stark took over; and finally the Mike McDonnell, son of one of the founders of Bay Area croquet.

The Meadowood restaurant was a favorite spot not just for resort visitors, but also the local residents. Croquet players during tournaments could usually count on at least one lunch in the nearby cafe.