Danville’s #2 Fire Station was built in 1898 and was the first all-black fire station in Illinois. The men of the fire station took on a special roll in the community. Children from the neighborhood were always welcome. The door was always open. A game of horseshoes, or pool, or a turn on a trapeze were always available to them. A hungry child could always get a meal, or an article of clothing, or a pair of shoes.
Firefighter, Sterling Ford, recorded much of their history. He sums up the feeling of the community by saying. “They were some of the best damn firefighters this city has ever had.”
Station #2 still stands at 705 N. Walnut in Danville, as a reminder of their dedication to excellence. It was the first all African-American firestation in the state of Illinois.
The mural utilizes the brick of the wall as an art element.
Walldog Artist, Duncan Wilkie
Located: Alley off of North St. on West wall of building at 14 W. North St. (mural on back of building with address at 56 N. Vermilion St.)