The Hotel Washington, which sat at the intersection of West Washington Avenue and Regent Street, was destroyed by fire on Feb. 18, 1996, taking with it several businesses that were significant gathering spots for Madison's gay and lesbian community. Bars and restaurants housed in the building included Club de Wash, the New Bar, Rod's Club, the Barber's Closet, MicroBar and the Cafe Palms and Espresso Bar. The fire started in a Cafe Palms office, where an ashtray had been emptied into a trash can. Here's a look back at the fire and its aftermath.