Elevator Fire in Chicago. Elevator B, of the Illinois Central railway, which was recently destroyed by fire, stood on the South pier in the downtown district, occupying a space of 200×425 ft. In height it was 125 ft., it was not sprinklered, and was built in 1872. The bins were of wood ; the structure itself was of veneered brick. It was probably struck by lightning during a thunderstorm at the end of April, and when the department arrived the whole of the elevator was on fire all through. Twenty-three engines — Ahrens, Nott, American-La France, Metropolitan, and Continental—were sent to the scene, besides 5 hook and ladder trucks. 3 fireboats and 4 chemical engines. The width of the street in front of the damaged property is 60 ft., but the main is loid on it, and there was only a single hydrant available, the pressure at which was 35…
