Following the tragic events of the Mark fire, the Evanston Fire Department (EFD) faced an emotional and challenging period. The loss of two brave firefighters, William Craig and George Stiles, left a deep mark on the department and the community. At the funeral for Fireman William Craig, held on December 14, 1905, an honor guard consisting of Lt. John Watson, Henry Newton, Harry Schaeffer, and Walter Hubert escorted his remains from his home at 1924 Jackson Avenue to the Davis Street C&NW RR depot. A striking floral arrangement 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, where Craig was laid to rest.

Later that same day, the community gathered to mourn George Stiles at Wheadon Methodist Church on Ridge Avenue. Dr. Wilkinson, the church's pastor, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, reflecting on Stiles’ kindness, popularity, and dedication. The pallbearers included Capt. George Hargreaves, Lt. Thomas Norman, Engineer J. A. Patrick, and firefighters William Sumpter, John Eckberg, and John Reddick. Among those in attendance was former EFD Chief Norman Holmes. After the service, the honor guard led the procession down Ridge Avenue to Rosehill Cemetery, where Stiles was buried. Notably, the same hose wagon used earlier that day to transport Craig’s body also carried Stiles’ casket, symbolizing the shared sacrifice of these brave men.

The following day, December 15, 1905, the EFD faced another crisis. With Stiles and Craig deceased, Ed Johnson and Thomas Watson still hospitalized, and Assistant Chief Sweeting away, the department was severely understaffed. Under the leadership of new Chief Carl Harrison, the crew struggled to contain a major fire at Lyons Hall, located at 621 Davis Street. Despite their efforts, the fire caused significant damage to the third floor and rear of the historic building, along with extensive smoke and water damage throughout.

Lyons Hall, built in 1868, had long been a cultural and social hub in Evanston. It hosted political meetings, weddings, dances, and proms for nearly four decades. In January 1873, it was the site of the first meeting of the Pioneer Fire Company of Evanston. The total damage from the fire was estimated at $12,000, with $8,000 affecting the building itself and an additional $4,000 damaging businesses and apartments on the lower and upper floors.

In January 1906, the EFD saw several promotions. Lt. Thomas Norman was elevated to Captain and took over as company officer of Hose Co. 3, while Fireman William Sumpter became Lieutenant and served as assistant company officer of Engine Co. 1. George Stiles was next in line for a lieutenant promotion, and it was widely believed he would have received the position had he not died in the Mark fire.

That same month, the Evanston City Council approved a pay raise for all EFD members, except the chief. The increase included $5 per month for the assistant chief and captains, and $2.50 for other members. This move reflected growing recognition of the firefighters' vital role in the city.

Chief Carl Harrison, who had recently taken over, introduced new training programs for the department. He invited experts such as architects and electrical engineers to speak, aiming to improve knowledge and preparedness. He also proposed using rocket flares and balloons to enhance communication between firefighters on the scene and those en route. Though innovative, this idea never came to fruition due to logistical challenges and the limitations of the time.

Graduation Stoles

Contains some of the relevant items needed for graduation, such as shawls, ribbons, MEDALS, etc.

graduation stoles

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