Tulsa Firefighter Shares History Behind Firepoles

An African American firefighter played a key role in developing a staple of the fire station -- the fireman's pole.

In honor of Black History Month, News On 6 spoke with a fireman and shared the history.

In the 1900s, fire stations were two or three stories. Staircases and sliding chutes were common but they weren't always fast.

Captain David B. Kenyon of Chicago's all-black Engine Company No. 21, used a wooden pole to get downstairs.

"[He] set the pole down up straight and he slid down it. Pretty unusual concept but he got down to the firetruck a lot faster than everyone who was going down the spiral staircase," said Fredrick Owens, Tulsa Fire Department.

The all-Black station created the concept that would become popular across the fire community nationwide.

"So, the fire chief in 1880 looked at it and was like, 'we need to incorporate this in all our fire stations that are two stories or higher,'" said Owens.

142 years later, four fire stations in Tulsa still use the sliding poles.

"Here we are 2020. Here's a pole and it's still heavily utilized," said Owens.

Owens said it not only helps the firefighters respond quickly to give help to those who need it, but for him, it's a reminder of the lasting impact of Black excellence.

"It does give you a sense of pride that, you know, my ancestors had a hand in the fire service with a very important tool," said Owens.

As many fire stations have become one story and for safety concerns, the fire pole is phasing out.

Owens said he thinks the history will always be there.