by Laurel | February 21st, 2012
21 February 1909
The value of fire drills in the public schools were plainly demonstrated in the fire at the Elmwood School last Thursday and the fact that nearly 700 children were marched out of the building in less than two minutes and without confusion or injury is a plain object lesson as to its value. the coolness of Principal M. J. Greaney should also be taken into account together with the assistance and support of the teachers. Where so many children are gathered together it would not have taken much to have started a panic and however well the building was provided with exits it is practically sure in such a case that many children would have been injured. Had the principal or the teachers lost their heads for a minute the children would have suffered. It is probable that the fire drill will be faithfully practiced in the schools more than ever. The school building will be repaired at once, the cost of repairs being estimated to be in the neighborhood of $1000.
The old Elmwood school building was erected about 17 years ago from the plans of City Engineer Walther. In 1901 an additional building was erected and joined to the old building from the plans furnished by architect Alderman. The original building was of eight rooms, and the addition also contains eight rooms, making a 16-room school house. The fire caused damage in the old building alone. The building is provided with four entrances, making escape easy for the pupils.
From The Springfield Republican.
