January 2, 1962. A fire broke out at the 3-story Acorn Luggage factory on Western Avenue at Harrison Street, starting at 8:30 a.m. and escalating 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 seen in the image is no longer there). In the distance, you can just make out the old Chicago Stadium. The second image captures the scene looking across Western Avenue toward the southeast. The final photo highlights firefighters from Snorkels working in an alley—what we'd now call the “C” side of the street. The truck company parked on Western appears to be Engine 19, based on what I can see on the door. Our staff historians may correct me if I'm mistaken. If you look closely in the background, you can spot the large Phillips 66 neon sign that once stood above the Eisenhower Hotel, along with the old Harris Bank Christmas billboard perched on top of one of the buildings. It’s a nice glimpse into the past. Hope you enjoy this little historical reminder.

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

Beverage Bottle

Xuzhou D.C. International Trading Co., Ltd. , https://www.tfgyspackaging.com