Fort Scott ? Gov. Kathleen Sebelius visited Fort Scott’s historic downtown area Monday, studying the damage caused by a roaring, wind-whipped fire.

The blaze that started Friday afternoon destroyed nine buildings, and Fort Scott Mayor Gary Billionis said two or three others located near those buildings also may have suffered damage.

“This is a historic area,” Sebelius said after returning to Topeka. “The oldest building is about 142 years old. It’s a real piece of Kansas history lost in this fire. But hopefully we can help them rebuild.”

She was joined by state Sen. Jim Barone and two state representatives along with the state fire marshal.

Sebelius said the group wanted to help connect the community with different state and federal funding sources. Damage is estimated at $10 million.