Significant Incidents – 1837-1899
Organization of the City and the Fire Department. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

Click icons and colored areas in map above for additional details.

IconDescription
Aircraft Incident
Hazardous Materials Incident
Landmark Fire
Large Civilian Loss
Major Fire
Multiple LODD
Other
Point of Interest

Key Dates

  • October 4, 1834 – First recorded fire in Chicago at LaSalle and Lake.
  • March 4, 1837 – City of Chicago incorporated.
  • August 2, 1858 – First paid fire department organized.
  • June 2, 1865 – First fire alarm boxes installed.
  • October 2, 1871 – Chicago Fire Insurance Patrol organized, just six days before the Great Fire.
  • May 9, 1878 – Joker telegraph system installed.
  • June 29, 1889 – 125 square miles annexed by City of Chicago.
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