More historical information from the Waukegan Fire Department. This content includes some overlap with previous posts, but offers additional details and context about the department's early years.
1800’s through 1929
Waukegan, one of Illinois' oldest communities, traces its origins back to 1673 when Jesuit missionary Father Pierre Marquette and explorer Louis Joliet arrived at the tree-covered bluffs along Lake Michigan, where the Pottawamie Indians had settled. Trappers and traders soon followed, establishing a trading post and stockade known as “Petite†or Little Fort in the early 1700s. The French eventually abandoned the fort, and in 1835, the first permanent settlers from Chicago arrived, leading to rapid growth. By 1841, the town was named the county seat, replacing Libertyville, and its population rose from 150 to 750 within five years.
By 1849, the population reached 2,500, and the town was officially recognized as a port. With this growth, the name "Little Fort" no longer seemed fitting. On March 31, 1849, the village was renamed Waukegan, derived from the Pottawamie word for "Little Fort," Waukegance.
The town's port attracted early settlers, who used Lake Michigan to transport grain and produce from nearby farms. The arrival of the Illinois Parallel Railroad (later the Chicago and Northwestern) in 1855 brought manufacturing to the area.
A Need for Fire Protection
As Waukegan grew rapidly, so did the need for fire protection. Warehouses, factories, hotels, and many frame houses required organized firefighting efforts. In response, the Waukegan Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 was formed on December 27, 1849, with 21 volunteer firefighters. They used axes, leather buckets, and a small hook and ladder wagon. Volunteers received only a poll tax rebate as compensation, and a 25-cent fine was imposed for absences.
Early leaders of the community were among the first firefighters. Meetings were held at local businesses until a permanent facility was built in the early 1850s. J.D. Davis led the company initially, followed by J.H. Hill on January 7, 1850. Other officers included E.S.L. Bacheldor, William M. Case, W.C. Tiffany, and William Hallowell.
The company fought its first fire on December 11, 1850, at the Kirk foundry. Equipment and facilities were a major concern. A committee was formed in May 1850 to evaluate a fire engine, and in 1852, the city purchased a fire engine and hose from Chicago. The first uniform was adopted in 1853, featuring red shirts, blue collars, and black belts.
The First Fire Engine
The first fire engine, however, proved inadequate. After trial runs, it was returned to Chicago in 1855, with the city refunding the bonds used for its purchase. In 1854, the village bought a new 32-man power engine from L. Button and Company. A building was rented for the company, and the city continued to expand its fire protection infrastructure.
In 1859, Waukegan became a city. The fire department remained an essential part of the growing community. A resolution in 1859 required male residents to provide labor for road maintenance, but volunteers were exempt, creating tensions over workforce availability.
Fire regulations evolved over time. In 1866, the department was divided into three sections: an engine company, a hose company, and a hook and ladder company. C.G. Buell became the first Chief Engineer in 1866.
In 1874, Waukegan acquired a Silsby Steam Fire Engine, which proved more reliable than earlier models. It was rebuilt in 1892 and remained effective well into the 20th century. The city also expanded its water supply system, including hydrants and water mains, improving fire response capabilities.
The Great Chicago Fire
In 1871, during the Great Chicago Fire, Waukegan firefighters traveled to assist their neighbors. Volunteer firefighters like Fred Palmer and others responded, bringing a cart and 700 feet of hose. Their support highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in emergency situations.
Throughout the 1870s and 1880s, Waukegan continued to modernize its fire department. Telephone lines were installed, and a cistern was added to the engine house. However, volunteer participation declined, prompting discussions about transitioning to a paid staff.
In 1886, the city began employing professional firefighters, marking a significant shift in the department’s structure. Paid positions were introduced, with salaries for the chief engineer and other firefighters.
Recognized for Service
In 1892, the Waukegan Fire Department was honored by the Bluff City Fire Company #1 from Kenosha for its assistance during a large fire. The department was presented with a silk tapestry in recognition of its efforts. Following a devastating downtown fire in 1893, the city improved its water works system, enhancing fire protection across the city.
By 1897, the department had grown significantly, acquiring new equipment such as a steam fire engine and a hook and ladder truck. The alarm system expanded, with 33 boxes in place, and the city had over 150 hydrants and 30 alarm boxes.
A Bad Year for Fires
1899 saw several major fires, including the United States Sugar Refinery fire and the American Steel and Wire Company mill fire, which caused extensive damage. In 1901, a fire at the Alden Organ Factory claimed two lives.
By 1902, the fire department covered six miles within the city limits. The department had a Silsby Steam Engine, 1,875 feet of rubber hose, and a hook and ladder truck. Chief Arch MacArthur and Assistant Chief Sars O’Farrell led 13 men.
First Waukegan LODD
In 1908, Fireman John Hobart Jansen became the first Waukegan firefighter to die in the line of duty during the North Shore Electric Plant fire. His death marked a tragic milestone for the department. He left behind a wife and four children.
Over the years, the Waukegan Fire Department continued to grow and adapt. In 1912, the first motor-driven fire engine arrived, navigating unpaved streets with chains on tires. The Central Fire Station was remodeled in 1913 and became a community hub.
Throughout the early 20th century, the department faced challenges, including fires, evolving regulations, and the need for modernization. Despite these hurdles, the Waukegan Fire Department remained a vital part of the city’s history and development.
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