The Daily Chronicle has an article about
Jerry Taylor, a retired firefighter from Sycamore, recently found himself transported back in time when he saw the city’s first motorized fire engine — the very one that once changed his life.
It was July 2, 1952, when Sycamore firefighters were called to what they thought was a fire at the old East School. It turned out to be a false alarm, but Jerry, then just a young firefighter, rushed outside and jumped aboard the 1923 Stutz fire engine. Unfortunately, a pickup truck used by the department for grass fires accidentally hit him, resulting in a skull fracture and a broken elbow. That day left a lasting mark on Taylor, who is now 86 years old.
Recently, while visiting the Sycamore Fire Preservation Company, Taylor had the chance to see the historic Stutz again — for the first time in decades. The emotional moment brought back vivid memories of his early days with the department.
The Sycamore Fire Preservation Company, led by Gene Ege, a former fire chief, is working hard to restore the 1923 Stutz. Their goal is to raise $25,000 for the restoration. So far, they've managed to gather half of that amount through donations from local residents and businesses.
If you're interested in contributing, you can contact Marc Doty, the assistant fire chief, at 815-895-4514, or Gene Ege directly at 815-761-8844. You can also reach out to the DeKalb County Community Foundation at 815-748-5383 or visit their website at www.dekalbccf.org. Donations can be made by check, payable to "Sycamore Fire Preservation Company LTD. Fund."
To help raise more funds, the preservation group will host a bunco dice and dinner event on September 20th at 6:15 p.m. at the Sycamore Veterans Memorial Home, located at 121 California Street. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting Kris Morris at 815-762-3050.
According to Ege, the main objective is to get the Stutz running again. A mechanic has already repaired the wooden spokes, and further work is needed on the batteries and wiring to determine if the engine can eventually be restored for use in parades and public events.
Although many of the firefighters who once operated the Stutz have passed away, Ege discovered that four former Sycamore firefighters from that era are still alive today, as seen in historical records dating back to the 1910s.
A close inspection of the fire engine reveals the faintly etched word "Sycamore" on the hood, a testament to its rich history and the community it served.
Thanks Dan
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