The Great Chicago Fire
Aurora firefighters posing with Aurora’s 1869 Amoskeag Steamer and Holly Hose Companies Hose Wagon. The 1869 Steamer and 75 men rendered aid during the Great Chicago Fire.
“When the firefighters and Steamer returned home, “the firemen were heartily greeted by all of our citizens who were at the depot. Their wives and little ones were on hand to kiss them welcome home; and friends were everywhere pressing their hands with joy. Noble Boys! You have indeed been baptized in the hottest of fires, and the most scorching flames””
October 8, 1871
The 1871 Great Chicago Fire destroyed city infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods on levels previously unimaginable. Despite the high level of devastation in most of Chicago, an enduring legacy of this catastrophe is the memory of support received from across the region and the rebuilding campaigns that began virtually before the flames cooled.
The fire caused an estimated $200,000,000 worth of damages, around 300 deaths and left 90,000 people homeless. Reconstruction began quickly and led to both population and economic growth. The majority of the city’s infrastructure was intact after the fire that also allowed quick rebuilding.
Aurora Responds
Excelsior, and Young America arrived in Chicago with their 1869 Steam Fire Engine to help fight the blaze. In total, seventy-five men from Aurora traveled into Chicago. Upon arrival, the crew first set up along the lakeshore to help protect the Michigan Avenue Hotel. Fire Marshal S. B. Sherer arrived to the applause of many when he arrived at the City Headquarters and announced that Aurora had sent seventy-five men and their steamer.
It was determined that Aurora could move to the Northside at the Chicago Avenue Bridge. Here, several other fire companies working to protect the Gas Works met them. Aurora’s firefighters worked to protect the surrounding wooden buildings and lumberyards. After nearly thirteen hours of fighting the fire, Aurora’s men were able to take a brief rest at an engine house, but were soon called out again to douse a burning coal yard. Hungry, tired, and wet from the pouring rain they continued. Aurora’s volunteer firefighters assisted other fire companies throughout the City until Chicago was found to be safe and the fire was fully extinguished around 3pm on Wednesday, October 11.