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Evanston Fire Department history – Part 7
Over the years, the history of the Evanston Fire Department has been marked by significant milestones, each contributing to the evolution of firefighting in the city. One such pivotal moment came in the aftermath of the devastating Lincoln Avenue schoolhouse fire in March 1894. This tragic event prompted the installation of a Gamewell Fire Alarm Telegraph system in Evanston, initially equipped with 20 fire alarm boxes. The installation process took about three months, starting in November 1894 and concluding in February 1895, at a cost of $4,000. By 1905, the number of fire alarm boxes had grown to 37, and by 1935, the system boasted 51 operational boxes. Eventually, in 1958, this system was replaced by a modern network of 80 police/fire emergency telephones manufactured by Western Electric.
The fire alarm telegraph served not only as a tool for citizens to report fires but also played a crucial role in internal communication within the fire department. Officers or designated personnel at the scene of an incident could relay updates and progress reports directly to the chief’s residence, fire stations, the waterworks pumping station, or even the police switchboard. This two-way communication system allowed firefighters to stay informed about other alarms or critical information across the city, enhancing their ability to respond effectively.
Shortly after the installation of the fire alarm telegraph, the Evanston City Council allocated another $4,000 to purchase the department's first steam fire engine. Manufactured by the Ahrens Manufacturing Company in Cincinnati, this impressive machine was named "City of Evanston No. 1." Equipped with a two-horse hitch, it was a second-size Metropolitan steamer capable of pumping 600 gallons of water per minute. The engine was put into service at Station No. 1 in April 1895, just two months after the telegraph installation was complete. Initially, the same horses used for the Babcock chemical engine were reassigned to pull the new steamer, while the chemical engine was kept in reserve until additional horses could be acquired, which happened in 1899.
J.A. "Dad" Patrick, a former Waterworks engineer, was hired as the fire department's engineer in 1895. His expertise was invaluable in operating the complex machinery of the steam era. Edward Mersch joined as an assistant engineer in 1896, supporting Patrick and stepping in whenever necessary. The position of engineer was highly respected and well-compensated, often second only to the chief in terms of salary. As late as 1904, the salary of the assistant engineer at Engine Co. No. 1 was comparable to that of the company officer.
Civil Service regulations were introduced for City of Evanston employees in 1895, with only five members of the fire department qualifying under these new rules: Jack Sweeting, George Hargreaves, Carl Harms, Edwin Whitcomb, and J.A. Patrick. The position of fire marshal remained exempt. Jack Sweeting was promoted to captain of Engine Co. No. 1 during this period. New hires, including Assistant Engineer Ed Mersch, were brought on board only after successfully passing Civil Service examinations. Similar to active military duty, firefighters were always on call, though they were granted short meal breaks away from the station and occasional leaves for personal matters.
In 1897, a combined fire and police headquarters was constructed at the northwest corner of Grove and Sherman Streets. Funded by a $40,000 bond issue approved by Evanston voters in April 1896, the building featured four large apparatus bays and an additional bay for the newly acquired horse-drawn police ambulance. This facility served the community until it was abandoned in the summer of 1949. The building was later demolished, and the site became a parking lot for the nearby Valencia Theatre. Decades later, in the 1970s, the lot was developed into one of Evanston's first high-rise office buildings, originally named One American Plaza. Construction began in December 1975 and was completed in 1977.
For those interested in reading further installments of this rich history, click HERE.
As I reflect on these early developments, it's clear how much effort and innovation went into building a resilient firefighting force in Evanston. Each advancement, whether technological or organizational, laid the groundwork for the modern fire department we see today.
How to Book, Load, and Ship Gym Equipment That You Buy in China in 5 steps
The first step in importing fitness equipment from China involves finding a reliable supplier. you can connect with numerous manufacturers offering a wide range of fitness equipment. However, it’s essential to verify the suppliers, check their credentials, and ensure they can meet your specific requirements in terms of product quality and volume.
Ensuring that your chosen gym fitness equipment complies with the safety and quality standards of your country is crucial. This involves checking for necessary certifications and conducting thorough quality inspections before shipping. The inspections should cover aspects like dimensions, color, material, and packaging.
When paying your Chinese fitness equipment supplier, consider the total payment amount and choose a method that offers security and convenience. Options can range from international wire transfers and letters of credit to online escrow services and payments through sourcing agents. Be aware of potential scams and always ensure secure transactions.
Shipping procedures involve choosing between Full Container Load (FCL) or Less Than Container Load (LCL), depending on your order volume. While FCL is more secure and less likely to result in damaged goods, LCL might be a practical option for smaller orders. Be prepared for the transit time which can range from 14 to 50 days, not including potential delays.
Import regulations can vary depending on your country. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the necessary import licenses, documentation, and customs procedures applicable in your region to avoid legal issues and ensure a smooth import process.