Fire Station No. 14, gebouw in Californië, Verenigde Staten van Amerika
Fire Station No. 14 is a three-story building constructed in 1949 in the International Style, featuring clean lines, flat surfaces, and large horizontal windows that define its minimal aesthetic. The structure houses the Los Angeles Fire Department and exemplifies the functional design approach typical of mid-twentieth century municipal architecture.
The station opened in 1949, replacing an older Victorian structure that had served for fifty years using horse-drawn equipment. It became a symbol of segregation in the fire department, operating as the second all-Black station from 1936 to 1956 and reflecting the struggles of Black firefighters against discrimination and poor treatment.
The station served as one of two all-Black fire stations in Los Angeles between 1936 and 1956, representing both the segregation and community pride of the African American population. Visitors can see how local institutions became symbols of resilience and identity during this period of racial division in the city.
The station is easily accessible on South Central Avenue in South Los Angeles and can be viewed from the outside. Keep in mind this is an active fire station, so interior access is limited, but visitors can observe the architecture and historical significance from the street.
A remarkable 1950 photograph shows both the old Victorian station and the new building standing side by side before the older structure was demolished. This rare image captures a moment of transition between two eras of fire station architecture in Los Angeles.
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