Our fallen hero

At 4:26 AM, on May 16, 1909, Box 521 at 9^th & Arch Streets was struck for a fire at 831 Arch Street. This five-story brick building was occupied by David Henley’s Sons, makers of artificial flowers and feathered goods. Before 4:36 AM, this blaze would reach three alarms. This alarm box (521) was known among firemen as the HooDoo Box. It earned this dubious name because of the many Firefighters that were seriously injured and lost their lives at fires associated with this box.

Shortly after Engine 11’s arrival, Foreman Ellinger rescued Patrolman Burgess, who had become overcome by the heavy smoke while he was evacuating the occupants of a nearby house. Unfortunately, Foreman Ellinger was also overcome by the same toxic smoke. He shook it off and went to join his company. While directing his company, another dose of toxic smoke and hot gas took its toll. Foreman Ellinger left the building by the fire escape and went to the pavement for a drink of water. After being somewhat refreshed, he returned to his company. He was there but a short time when he stumbled and fell from the fire escape, hitting his head on the grating below. His men stopped what they were doing, leaving their hoses and ran to their Foreman’s aid. They tended to him until he was transported to Jefferson Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.