Crew of Engine House 5, individuals unidentified, probably in the 1920s (Springfield’s African-American Community and the Central East Neighborhood, Fever River Research)
Excerpts from newschannel20.com:
The history of the Black Firehouse No. 5 to be discussed
The historic Black Firehouse will be the topic of the Sangamon County Historical Society program at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 16 at the Black Firehouse No. Five located at 1310 E. Adams St. in Springfield.
Officials say the event is free and open to the public.
Ken Page will share the history of the site and discuss the work that has been done to restore the building and acquire old log books and photos.
He will also lead a tour of the site. The Central 3 Community First Project Inc., led by Page, is heading up the restoration which received a 2023 Historical Society Grant.
The Firehouse was built in 1902-1903 to provide needed fire service to the area east of 10th Street. It was the only firehouse where black men were allowed to serve and where the heroic firefighters were called into action during the 1908 race riot.
