I've gotten used to a long work commute over the years. And I've found it easier to enjoy the journey rather than to stress about the time and traffic. Twenty years of zigzagging through local streets , searching for new short cuts, I've stumbled upon architectural gems. And every now and then, I'll pass a building that peaks my curiosity so much, it forces me to do some Google research. Recently, my research focused on two historic Detroit Fire stations.
FIRE HOUSE 22
Built in 1895, Engine and Ladder House 22 sits at 6138 Michigan Avenue just east of Livernois at Military Street. It was designed by Detroit architects Donaldson & Meier. It was remodel in 1923, which may have been when its hose tower was lowered in height. The tower was where fire hoses were hung to dry to avoid them from molding
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The view just inside the apparatus doors of Engine 22
Photo Credit |
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Holes at ceiling where fire poles once existed. The poles were removed
in the 1980s to prevent ankle and foot injuries
Photo Credit |
Within its almost 90 years of service, the station made the transition from horse-pulled fire apparatus to vehicles
. Closed in 1983, it briefly re-opened in 1991 as a Spanish Restaurant, Casa de Espana. Today, it sits vacant.
ENGINE 4-3
Formed in 1865, Firehouse 4 was located on 18th near Howard Street (Ste. Anne's Catholic Church can been seen directly behind). Also designed by Detroit architects Donaldson & Meier, the station was disbanded in 1976.
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Sources:
Catch 22, Nailhed.com, July 2008.
Old Engine and Ladder 22, Detroiturbex.com,
Detroit Firehouses,
Youngstownfire.com Forums.
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