TUCSON, Arizona (KGUN) — Most of the homes were left untouched when the Williams Fire broke out in Cochise County in early April, but one Hereford resident told me that the house had been inhabited by his family since the 1930s. lost.

“This was a historic home,” said Liz Roy, a neighbor of the burnt home.

All the antique furniture and historical paintings were destroyed, and the tractor was left to melt.

It was Arthur Thompson, 89, who loved that tractor and the land of Hereford.

He has an optimistic outlook on life.

Related: Hereford residents stress the importance of fire protection

“You can either stick to the past or you can look to the future,” said Thompson.

The fireplace and broken patio are some of the only remaining structures from the house, believed to have been built in 1903.

Thompson’s father purchased the home in the 1930s. He later took over the ranch.

“It was elegantly furnished. It’s not like a ranch house. It’s like a big city house,” Thompson said.

Thompson’s neighbor, Liz Roy, describes the house as very lively.

“There was a fountain here, and parties were held here in the 1950s,” said Roy.

Thompson is almost 90 years old, but young at heart.

“I’m so immature. I’ve been accused of being immature all my life,” he said.

He is definitely not stuck in the past and looks to the future.

“I realized I had no choice but to move forward,” Thompson said.

He’s staying in Tucson now.

“I haven’t decided yet,” Thompson said.

It’s still debatable.

“Yes, I have a long future ahead of me. I am very optimistic and intend to live a long life…and you too!” he said.