January 2, 1962. A fire broke out at the 3-story Acorn Luggage factory on Western Avenue near Harrison Street at 8:30 a.m., and it quickly escalated to a 4-11 alarm. The first photo shows a view looking north toward the old Crane Junior College (the high school still stands, but the building in the image no longer exists). You can also spot the old Chicago Stadium in the far distance. The second image captures the scene looking across Western Avenue toward the southeast. The final photo shows firefighters from Snorkels working in the alley, which today would be referred to as the “C” side. The truck company parked on Western appears to be Engine 19, based on the number visible on the door. Our staff historians may correct me if I'm mistaken. If you look closely in the background, you can see the large Phillips 66 neon sign that once illuminated the Eisenhower gas station, along with the old Harris Bank Christmas billboard atop one of the buildings. It’s a nice trip down memory lane. Hope you enjoy this glimpse into Chicago’s past.

January 2, 1962. Western at Harrison @ 8:30 am. Fire was in the 3-story Acorn Luggage factory and went to a 4-11. Eric Haak collection

January 2, 1962. Western at Harrison @ 8:30 am. Fire was in the 3-story Acorn Luggage factory and went to a 4-11. Eric Haak collection

January 2, 1962. Western at Harrison @ 8:30 am. Fire was in the 3-story Acorn Luggage factory and went to a 4-11. Eric Haak collection

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