- Joined
- Sep 25, 2013
- Messages
- 911
3511 said:The last two photos of Mack's posting show a small garage on 159th st, around the corner from the front of 71s old quarters on Park Ave. It was built in 1902 and marked a step up in the status of the Bronx in the FDNY. The borough had its own Division headquarters.
It was at first the 4th Division, then the 6th in 1906, then the 7th a year later as the Department expanded across the entire City. The 7th remained there until 1948, when it bounced back and forth from there to E82 until finally settling at E48 in 1956.
The significance of that small garage is that it was designed as the living quarters of the Deputy Chief. In those days of continuous duty, officers above the rank of captain were often provided quarters for themselves and their families. Every chief (there was only one guy for each division and battalion) was ALWAYS on duty, save for his vacation. Each chief ( and captains for that matter) were considered to be "gods" in the chain of command.
When the FDNY went to a 2 platoon system in the 1920s, additional chiefs were assigned and the practice of family living eventually ended.
When Hugh Halligan was assigned as Chief of Division 7, he moved his HQS over to E82, where he had previously served as captain. His family lived on Perry Ave and later in Park Chester.
A lot of history in that small garage, of legendary chiefs, kids and family. The last time I was there, the EMS officer told me it was sealed off, along with the 2d floor of 71s quarters.
3134 Park Ave, Bronx
Division 4 - 1902-1903
Division 5 - 1904-1906
Division 6 - 1906-1907
Division 7 - 1908-1948, 1949-1951 (Temp at 82/31 1948-1949)