**Another Installment on the History of the Evanston Fire Department**
I just finished reading some fascinating details about the aftermath following the tragic Mark fire in 1905. It really brought home how much this event impacted the community and the department. One poignant moment was during George Stiles' funeral, held at the Wheadon Methodist Church on Ridge Avenue. Dr. Wilkinson, the pastor, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, praising Stiles as a beloved member of the fire department who always had kind words for everyone. His words echoed a sentiment of respect and remembrance that lingered long after the service.
On that same day, December 14, 1905, Fireman William Craig's body was transported from his home at 1924 Jackson Avenue to the nearby C&NW RR depot. The procession included an honor guard from the Evanston Fire Department, led by Lt. John Watson, along with firemen Henry Newton, Harry Schaeffer, and Walter Hubert. Above Craig’s casket, placed on Engine 1’s hose wagon, sat a wreath made of fresh flowers arranged in the shape of a fire helmet, with his badge number “123†intricately woven into the center. Assistant Chief Jack Sweeting accompanied the Craig family to their final destination in Knoxville, Illinois, where Craig was laid to rest.
Later that afternoon, another solemn ceremony took place for George Stiles at the same church. Dr. Wilkinson presided over the service, and the pallbearers were esteemed members of the department, including Capt. George Hargreaves, Lt. Thomas Norman, and several other firefighters. Former Chief Norman Holmes was among those who attended. Following the service, the honor guard led the procession carrying Stiles’ casket to Rosehill Cemetery in Chicago, retracing the same route used earlier for Craig’s casket.
The next day, December 15, 1905, the department faced yet another challenge when Lyons Hall caught fire. With two firefighters already lost and two others hospitalized, the remaining crew, now led by newly appointed Chief Carl Harrison, struggled to contain the blaze. The fire caused extensive damage to the third floor and rear of the historic building, which had stood since 1868. It had been a hub for community events for nearly four decades, hosting everything from political gatherings to weddings and dances. The total damage amounted to $12,000, with $8,000 directly affecting the structure and another $4,000 impacting businesses and apartments on the lower floors.
In the months that followed, promotions within the department reflected the loss and the need for new leadership. Lt. Thomas Norman was elevated to Captain and assumed command of Hose Co. 3, replacing Chief Harrison. Fireman William Sumpter became a Lieutenant and was assigned as assistant company officer for Engine Co. 1. Tragically, George Stiles had been next in line for promotion, meaning he would have become a Lieutenant had fate not intervened.
By January 1906, the city council recognized the firefighters' sacrifices by approving raises for all department members except the chief. The assistant chief and captains received a $5 monthly increase, while others got $2.50 more each month.
Chief Harrison wasted no time implementing changes. He introduced comprehensive training sessions, inviting experts such as architects and electrical engineers to speak. Recognizing the limitations of relying solely on runners and telegraphs, Harrison proposed innovative solutions like rocket flares and balloons to improve communication between firefighters. Unfortunately, despite its promise, this idea never came to fruition due to logistical challenges.
As I reflect on these stories, it's clear that the strength of the Evanston Fire Department lay not only in its ability to respond to emergencies but also in its resilience and dedication to its people. These accounts remind us of the courage and camaraderie that defined the early days of firefighting in America.
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