11 December 2005

Today's bit of vanishing Americana

This particular item was invented in the late 1800s by David B. Kenyon, captain of Engine Company No. 21 of the Chicago Fire Department. On average, it reduced the time it took for firefighters to respond by about 15 seconds and became as recognizable as part of the firefighter scene as the Dalmatian dog. Sadly, due to rising insurance costs and replacement of old fire stations, it's disappearing from the scene.
Every kid wanted to try it out... the brass fire pole.

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