For nearly a century, the Stockyards fire tragedy that took place in the early 20th century in Chicago, Illinois, was the deadliest event involving firefighters in American history. Although it was nearly forgotten, efforts to see this tragedy properly commemorated resulted in the creation of the Chicago Stockyards Fire Memorial. The notable connections the piece has to the sacrifices made by firefighters in the past and present have made it a timeless element of the city and ensured these individuals and efforts will always be remembered.
The Fallen 21
In 1910, a fire started in the Nelson-Morris Meat Packing Company at the Chicago Stockyards that quickly overtook the building. Chicago firefighters entered the building to try to control the blaze but 21 of them were instantly killed when the seven-story building collapsed. Until the September 11th attacks in 2001, it was the deadliest event in American history for firemen fatalities
Retired Chicago firefighter Bill Cosgrove told the story of this event in his book, “Chicago’s Forgotten Tragedy.” That compelled him to gather support for a memorial to the Fallen 21 as well as all Chicago Firefighters who gave their lives to protect Chicago. This effort would lead to the creation of the Chicago Stockyards Fire Memorial, which was dedicated in 2004.
Located behind the Union Stock Yard Gate, the Chicago Stockyards Fire Memorial honors the Fallen 21 in a prominent manner. It features an 8-foot-tall bronze and aluminum sculpture and a “Wall of Honor” bearing the names of Chicago firefighters and paramedics who have died in the line of duty. The granite base includes the names of those who died that day as well as other Chicago firefighters who have perished in the line of duty. The figures in the piece are representations of members of the Fallen 21 as well as an interpretation of the event itself.
Cosgrove as well as the others who enabled the creation of the piece are immortalized in the granite base, further highlighting the connection of the piece to audiences in the present. With the names of the firefighters of all eras displayed in such a prominent manner in a way that can be further expanded and added to, the landmark highlights what it can mean for a memorial to enable connections for audiences across multiple eras.
Honoring the Sacrifices of All Eras
Directly connected to the place and history associated with the Chicago Stockyards, the Chicago Stockyards Fire Memorial began as an effort to specifically honor the Fallen 21 in a way that would ensure they would not be forgotten. The effort to do so has resulted in the creation of a monument that not only honors these individuals but also connects them to a much wider legacy that will continue to thrive and expand.
