Chicago Fire Patrol Message Board
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Author |
|
|
Reply with quote | #1 |
Matt Schumann President of the Fire Buffs of Illinois Organization has written a fine review of our book. Here it is: In 2007, a new book was self-published on the Chicago Fire Insurance Patrol by Keith Seafield and Michael Pack. The intent of the new volume, History of the Chicago Fire Insurance Patrol 1871-1959 was to provide a comprehensive written history of the Patrol that included its stations, its apparatus and most importantly, the men who served on the Patrol so that the history of this organization would not be lost. The result is a 388 page, hardcover 8 ½ by 11 book that encompasses 14 chapters, lots of photos and a through review of all the parts of the Patrol that is well worth the purchase price. I personally have enjoyed picking the book up and reading through the various chapters and looking at the photos and illustrations as it has allowed me to read and understand what the Patrol was and how it operated. This book fully describes for the reader the purpose of the Patrol, what its duties were and how it was supported, in addition to the training, the daily practices and the apparatus of probably the largest private fire department within the Chicago City limits. For many, it was a stepping stone to service in many other fire departments, for others it was a career dedicated to preserving property from further damage and this unique role of the Patrol is really shown in the book. The history of the various Patrol companies is successfully presented with reflections of various individuals who served on the Patrols; various Patrol related documents and other outgrowths of the Patrol such as the 1933 Century of Progress Fire Department. This combination seems to successfully create a comprehensive, complete view of the Patrol during its existence in Chicago. When I look at the complete book, it seems to be a perfect complement to the current Chicago Fire Department Fire House History volumes that Ken Little and Fr. John McNalis have worked so hard to produce for us to enjoy. It seems that just as the Patrol worked hand in hand with the CFD, this new book works hand in hand with the Firehouse volumes and really deserves a spot on your shelf as it fills a similar role with a unique organization that helped Chicago for almost 90 years. |
| |
|
|
| |
