This is from Steve Redick: Steve Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Steve Redick photo Here's an excerpt from ChicagoTribune.com: Another major fire occurred on November 19, 1978, which destroyed the grandstand and heavily damaged the clubhouse at Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney. The facility was rebuilt and reopened in September 1980. Before their destruction, both Hawthorne and Washington Park were known for being highly vulnerable to fires due to their extensive wooden structures. Hawthorne was built in 1891, and Washington Park in 1926, when building codes and fire regulations were not as strict as they are today. It’s fascinating to see how these historic places were affected by such events. These photos give a real sense of what it must have been like back then—smoke, sirens, and emergency crews working hard under challenging conditions. Steve’s account adds a personal touch, making the event feel more vivid and real. It’s a great reminder of how far fire safety has come over the years. Floor Scrubbing Brush,Floor Washing Machine High Density Filter Element,Short Bristled Antibacterial Roller Brush,Floor Scrubber 0riginal Accessories Grey Whale Intelligent Appliances (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd , https://www.szgraywhale.com
Vintage Hawthorne Race Track fire of 1978
Back in 1978, I took some photos during the Hawthorne Racetrack fire. The slides are dated November 78. Me and my buddy Hank were on duty at Truck 51 when the watchman woke us up and told us to look out the second-floor window of the firehouse. Without hesitation, we grabbed our gear and ran for our cars. I remember the Cicero ALF tiller arrived around the same time we did, and it made a sharp turn so fast that we thought the wheels were going to fly off. The Chicago Fire Department also sent several units—companies 34, 364, 88, a turret wagon, and a buggy. It was one of those classic suburban fires that brought out all the big guns!