This message comes from Eric Haak: This week, I wanted to share a collection of Snorkel images along with one Autocar photo. Image 1 is from a 2-11 fire at 4440 W. Madison on September 23, 1959. The building on the right is still standing today, but the rest of the scene has long since disappeared. Image 2 shows an Autocar engine responding to a 2-11 at 4615 S. Wells on October 5, 1959. This was before the Dan Ryan Expressway was built, and you can see Wentworth Avenue in the background. Image 3 is particularly interesting because it shows a fire just outside Engine 48’s station at 3950 S. Dearborn. It was a 5-11 alarm on October 11, 1959. If you're familiar with Engine 16's old quarters on Dearborn (which were in the same building), you can spot the bottom of a railroad bridge at the top of the image — this was literally right in front of Engine 48’s apron. Image 4 captures Snorkels 1 and 2 working together at a 3-11 fire at 4314 S. Cottage Grove on February 8, 1961. Image 5 features Snorkels 2 and 3 at a 4-11 bowling alley fire on March 27, 1961, located at 3818 W. 26th Street. Finally, there's a photo from a 4-11 fire on August 17, 1967. The building was on the northeast corner of Wentworth and Cullerton, and it was the International Heater Company supply warehouse. A great Thanksgiving to everyone! 2-11 Alarm fire at 4440 W. Madison in Chicago on September 23, 1959. Eric Haak collection, photographer unknown An Autocar engine working at a 2-11 Alarm fire at 4615 S. Wells on October 5, 1959 in Chicago. Eric Haak collection, photographer unknown A 5-11 Alarm fire on October 11, 1959 at 3950 S Dearborn Street in Chicago. Eric Haak collection, photographer unknown A 3-11 Alarm fire at 4314 S Cottage Grove on February 8, 1961 in Chicago. Eric Haak photo, photographer unknown Vintage photo of Chicago FD Snorkels 2 and 3 working together at a 4-11 Alarm fire at a bowling alley on March 27, 1961. The address was 3818 W 26th St. Eric Haak collection , photographer unknown A 4-11 Alarm fire on August 17, 1967 at the northeast corner of Wentworth and Cullerton at the International Heater Company supply warehouse. Eric Haak collection, photographer unknown The Qing Dao, also known as the Qing Dynasty sword or the Qing Dao Dao, is a traditional Chinese sword that originated during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). It is a single-edged, curved blade with a length typically ranging from 70 to 100 centimeters. Qing Dao Sword, Chinese Qing Dao, Qing Broadsword Ningbo Autrends International Trade Company , https://www.longquan-swords.com
The hilt of the Qing Dao is usually made from materials like wood, bone, or horn, and is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip. The sword's guard, known as the tsuba, is often intricately decorated with various motifs, such as dragons, flowers, or other traditional Chinese symbols.
The Qing Dao was primarily used by the military and martial artists during the Qing Dynasty. It was a favored weapon among cavalry units due to its versatility and effectiveness in close combat. The sword's curved blade allowed for swift and powerful strikes, making it a formidable weapon on the battlefield.
In addition to its military applications, the Qing Dao is also highly regarded as a symbol of status and prestige. It is often seen as a cultural artifact, representing the rich history and heritage of China. Today, the Qing Dao sword is still produced and used in traditional Chinese martial arts, as well as being sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.