Historic Photos

Bloomington Fire Department Demonstration, December 15, 1939

July 14th, 2016

a current and historic view of the State Farm fire building. The historic photo shows fireman spraying water on the building from ladder trucks and from Washington Street.

No need to panic! The State Farm Insurance Co. downtown building was not ablaze in mid-December 1939. This was a BFD public demonstration of new engines and equipment, including an 85-foot Seagrave aerial ladder truck.This scene shows the 100 block of East Washington Street. Old Withers Library is visible across East Street and behind the water spray. The photo on the right shows a similar angle, circa 2014.

Bill Kemp

Librarian

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