Firehouse of Engine 42 and Chemical 5 on Washington St, Egleston Sq., Roxbury, circa 1900. 
The firehouse at 3089 Washington Street, Egleston Sq., Roxbury, circa 1905. 
The firehouse at 3089 Washington Street, Roxbury, circa 1950. Note the elevated railway. |
HISTORYThis firehouse opened on October 27, 1892 when Chemical Engine Company 5 (Egleston) moved in from its old firehouse next door, which it had occupied since 1876. The firehouse was located at 3089 Washington Street, midblock between Atherton Street and Beethoven Street, and was built on a slight angle to the street, resulting in a more difficult left-hand turn when leaving quarters. On February 10, 1893 Engine Company 42 was organized at 3089 Washington Street. On March 5, 1913 Chemical 5 was disbanded and was replaced with the newly organized Ladder Company 30. During this period, an elevated subway line was built above Washington Street, running from Downtown to Forest Hills in Roslindale. This made turning or maneuvering fire apparatus very difficult, especially for Ladder 30. On December 19, 1952 Engine 42 and Ladder 30 moved into a new firehouse at 1870 Columbus Avenue, several blocks away. The firehouse at 3089 Washington Street was closed. It was demolished at a later date. 
1914 map shows the location of the firehouse at 3089 Washington Street, Roxbury. 
The former firehouse of Engine 42/Ladder 30 at 3089 Washington Street, Roxbury, circa 1964. 
The location of the former firehouse at 3089 Washington St., Roxbury, in 2012. |