In Division 27 of the MABAS system, the South Chicago Heights Fire Department recently introduced an intriguing historical gallery. This exhibit currently showcases 15 images, among which is a reproduction of a photograph capturing the original fire station from the early 1900s. The picture, sourced from Bill Friedrich’s collection, offers a glimpse into the department's storied past. However, there remains some mystery surrounding the specific model of engine shown in the image, as no definitive details are available.
![South Chicago Heights Fire Department history]( "SOUTH_CHICAGO_HEIGHTS_ORIGINAL_STATION_UNKNOWN_PHOTOGRAPHER___BILL_FRIEDRICH_COLLECTION")
As part of our ongoing efforts to enrich the gallery, we hope to uncover more information about this early station and its equipment. Moving forward, the next addition comes from a different era. A photograph taken by the late Dan Martin depicts a 1950 Mack Type 45 fire engine participating in a local parade. This particular vehicle represents a significant advancement in firefighting technology at the time, marking a pivotal moment in the department's history.
![South Chicago Heights Fire Department history Dan Martin]( "SOUTH_CHICAGO_HEIGHTS_ENG.1_1950_MACK_TYPE_45_500GPM_DAN_MARTIN_PHOTO__BILL_FRIEDRICH_COLLECTION")
The final image in the current lineup highlights one of the most iconic pieces of equipment ever owned by the department—a 1966 Western Fire Line (WLF) Hi-Ranger aerial ladder truck. This impressive rig was one of only two such vehicles located in the greater Chicago area, excluding the Chicago Fire Department. Unfortunately, no action shots of this vehicle responding to emergencies exist within the gallery at present. We’d love to find an image of this rig actively deployed at a fire scene to complete the collection.
![South Chicago Heights Fire Department history]( "SOUTH_CHICAGO_HEIGHTS_TRK.765_1966_WLF_HI_RANGER___0_0_70____X_LOUISVILLE_KY")
While these images provide valuable insight into the evolution of firefighting in South Chicago Heights, they also serve as reminders of the dedication and service displayed by countless firefighters over the years. If anyone has additional photographs or stories related to these vehicles or any other aspects of the department's history, please consider sharing them with us. Every contribution helps paint a fuller picture of this remarkable legacy.
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