Schiller Park, IL Soo Line Hotel Fire, May 1923

$30,000 Fire Loss at Schiller Park
Chicago, Oak Park, Bensenville, Franklin Park and Other Fire Departments Called

A great disaster occurred in Schiller Park, Wednesday, at 12:30 p.m. when a fire broke out in the Soo Line Hotel and eating house. The fire was discovered soon after it broke out through the roof. The fire whistle was sounded and the department responded. Our men used extinguishers, but the building being of frame and very dry, burned like paper.

The Chicago, Bensenville, Franklin Park, Oak Park, River Grove and Elmwood Park responded. Mr. PAUL WISCHMANN hitched up a line from the round house and got a stream working. Bensenville saved the west end and Parkers Building. The Soo Line filled up engine tanks with water and the Chicago Fire Department put their suction hose into the tanks and got two streams working.

The fire was under control about 2 p.m. The building was a complete loss due to water damage and tearing building apart to get at flames between walls. The damage amounted to about $30,000. The building is covered by insurance. Chief JOHN F. SQUIRES in conjunction with Battalion Chief O’MALLEY of Chicago, directed the work at the fire.

Now those who are doubtful as to whether the village should have water or not, should be convinced. Had not Bensenville department done the work they did and Franklin Park, this village would be a complete ruin.

Tourist sleepers will be provided by the Soo Line for their men’s sleeping quarters. Mr. DURST of Eden Inn, accepted meal tickets. The fire started around a ventilator pipe. Pasquale showed some speed getting out. Telephone and electric light wires were out of commission on account of the fire.

Cook County Herald, Arlington Heights, IL 25 May 1923
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Transcribed by June. Thanks June!