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Mini-Stories : Volume 14

99% Invisible

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The Rise and Fall of Fire Poles

This chapter explores the historical significance and transformation of fire poles in fire stations, tracing their origins and practical use in the firefighting profession. It discusses the establishment of Engine Company 21, the first all-Black fire company in the U.S., and the innovative solutions they implemented to improve emergency response times. The narrative highlights the cultural and architectural evolution of firehouses, demonstrating how fire poles have shifted from essential tools to nostalgic fixtures.

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