Evanston Fire Department History – Part 14

On December 14, 1905, the Evanston Fire Department faced one of its most sorrowful days. Just a day after the devastating Mark fire, the department mourned the loss of two brave firefighters—William Craig and George Stiles. The community gathered to honor their memory, reflecting on the courage and dedication these men had shown in service.

Dr. Wilkinson, pastor of Wheadon Methodist Church, delivered a heartfelt eulogy at George Stiles’ funeral, saying, “It was said of George Stiles… as a fireman, none better… that he was one of the most popular men in the Department… that he had a kind word for everyone. So shall we not then cherish his memory, and think of these splendid men more highly than ever before?”

That morning, at 9 AM, an honor guard from the Evanston Fire Department—Lieutenant John Watson, and firefighters Henry Newton, Harry Schaeffer, and Walter Hubert—escorted William Craig’s remains from his home at 1924 Jackson Avenue to the Davis Street C&NW RR depot. A beautiful arrangement of fresh flowers shaped like a fire helmet with Craig’s badge number “123” at its center was placed atop the Engine 1 hose wagon that carried his casket. Assistant Chief Jack Sweeting accompanied the family to Knoxville, Illinois, where Craig was laid to rest.

Later that same day, at 2 PM, the community gathered once again for George Stiles’ funeral at Wheadon Methodist Church on Ridge Avenue. Dr. Wilkinson led the service, and the pallbearers included Captain George Hargreaves, Lieutenant Thomas Norman, Engineer J.A. Patrick, and firefighters William Sumpter, John Eckberg, and John Reddick. Former EFD Chief Norman Holmes was also in attendance. After the service, the honor guard led the procession down Ridge Avenue to Rosehill Cemetery in Chicago, where Stiles was finally laid to rest. Notably, the same hose wagon that had transported Craig’s body earlier that day was used for Stiles as well.

The following day, Friday, December 15, 1905, the undermanned Evanston Fire Department, led by new Chief Carl Harrison, faced another major challenge. With George Stiles and William Craig deceased, and Ed Johnson and Thomas Watson still hospitalized, the department struggled to respond effectively to a large fire at Lyons Hall, located at 621 Davis Street. Despite their efforts, the blaze caused extensive damage to the third floor and rear of the historic building, along with significant smoke and water damage throughout the structure.

Lyons Hall, built in 1868, had been a central hub for the community for nearly 40 years. It hosted political meetings, weddings, dances, proms, and other events. In January 1873, the first meeting of the Pioneer Fire Company of Evanston took place there. The total damage from the fire was estimated at $12,000, including $8,000 to the building itself and $4,000 in damage to businesses and apartments on the first and third floors.

In January 1906, several promotions were announced within the department. Lieutenant Thomas Norman was promoted to Captain and took over as company officer of Hose Co. 3, while Fireman William Sumpter was elevated to Lieutenant and became assistant company officer of Engine Co. 1. George Stiles had been next on the promotion list and would have become the new lieutenant if not for his tragic death in the Mark fire.

Also in January 1906, the Evanston City Council approved a pay raise for all members of the fire department, excluding the chief. The increase included $5 per month for the assistant chief and captains, and $2.50 per month for the rest of the personnel.

New Chief Carl Harrison introduced comprehensive training programs for the firefighters. Experts such as architects and electrical engineers were invited to speak. He also proposed using rocket flares and balloons to improve communication between firefighters on the scene and those still en route. While the idea seemed promising at the time, it was never implemented due to the limitations of the era's technology.

This period marked both loss and progress for the Evanston Fire Department. Though they had suffered great tragedy, the department continued to evolve, striving to better serve the community and honor the memory of those who had given their lives in the line of duty.

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