The Underwriters Salvation Corps of St Louis was created in May 1874[1] to reduce the loss of property in fires. It was one of several Salvage Corps that formed in the 19th century to deal with fire in growing cities. Members would be part of Fire Patrols that, in the event of a fire, would enter burning structures and remove valuables before the fire could destroy them. This organization helped innovate early fire equipment. The organization "came to a close at the stroke of midnight on December 31, 1955"[2]
