AUDUBON. (CONT'D)
RESIDENCE OF E. E. BYRUM, AUDUBON.
THE WATER WORKS.
Audubon is very fortunately supplied with a valuable system of water works, which has been introduced at great expense. The supply is secured from the Blue Grass, and the water forced one-half mile to the reservoir, 175 feet above the source of supply. Mains have been laid in every street and avenue in the city, so that the benefit may be secured by every citizen who will lay pipes to his residence. The general expense of maintenance and repair is borne by the city, so that the benefits are comparatively free. The power employed in forcing the water to the reservoir has proven inadequate, and the demand for greater power has been supplied by an engine of large capacity, purchased at great expense. It has already been put in, and has been found to admirably answer its purpose, insuring a never-failing and adequate supply for all purposes. As the subject of much admiration on the part of our citizens. At each street crossing there are two hydrants, to each of which there are four hose attachments, making defense against fire very convenient, and being a very material item in rendering our
RESIDENCE OF C. H. VAIL, AUDUBON.
THE WATER WORKS.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
serviceable and efficient. The department is composed of two well organized and well disciplined companies. The fact is acknowledged that volunteer companies are superior.
[33]
for actual services to salaried departments. The Hose company has a large membership of enthusiastic and faithful citizens, who spare no pains to make the force efficient. The equpment is in quality the best that money can buy and in quantity grewater than many towns of the same size can boast. They have over 1,500 feet of hose, and two carts, one of which latter was constructed especially for this company and with particular design of lightness of draft. With it our company has completed successfully for prizes at several tournaments. The Hook and Ladder company is not less efficient. It likewise has a complement of members whose zeal is only equaled by their pride in the organization. To the combined efforts of these companies, together with the system of water works, Audubon is greatly indebted for their ready and efficient service in times of need. They have baffled the merciless flames in many instances, saving from destruction property valued at many thousands of dollars. Both companies have commodious and well finished apartments in the
CITY BUILDING AND FIRE STATION
which is illustrated on another page. The entire lower floor is devoted to the storing of fire department apparatus, which ever stands in readiness to respond to the dreaded alarm. The second floor is used as a city council chamber, and for transaction of city business of any nature. The size of the building is 40x80, 25 feet high.
RESIDENCE OF J. C. BONWELL, VIOLA TOWNSHIP.
Prev <=== Continue Reading ===> Next
Transcribed February, 2025 by Cheryl Siebrass from History of Audubon and Audubon County, Iowa, The Eden of the West., 1887, pp. 33-34.
|
