Selfless Saviors: Two Extraordinary Rescuers in the Eastland Disaster
Collage for Flower in the River Podcast - Ep. 62 featuring a mix of historical images and documents related to the Eastland disaster, including the cover of "Bell Telephone News" from August 1915
A gripping tale from the Bell Telephone News (August 1915)
In the annals of history, some heroes remain unsung, their stories buried beneath layers of time and obscurity. The Eastland disaster, one of the most tragic maritime accidents in American history, is no exception. While much has been written about the event itself, the stories of those who risked their lives to save others often go unnoticed. Today, I want to shine a light on two such heroes, Fred Lippert and George Spiegelhauer, whose bravery and selflessness deserve to be remembered.
The Catalyst: An eBay Discovery
Before diving into the tales of Fred and George, I must share a recent discovery that rekindled my interest in these stories. A few days ago, my cousin alerted me to an Eastland Disaster memorabilia selling on eBay for $500. While I often find related postcards for a mere ten bucks, this price was steep. While I may not consider myself a collector, I do buy, scan, share, with the goal of eventually donating authentic memorabilia to the Newberry Library in Chicago. This particular eBay listing reminded me of a similar overpriced document I found last year, which was easily accessible on Google Docs. This experience underscored the importance of accessible history and inspired me to continue sharing these stories.
Fred Lippert: A Life of Bravery
Fred J. Lippert was no ordinary man. Having been born either in Germany or Chicago in 1889, he lived a life marked by bravery and service. An electrical engineer for Illinois Bell Telephone, Fred's heroism radiated during the Eastland disaster. When the news broke, he donned his bathing suit, expecting a swim later that day, and headed straight to the scene. He dived into the murky waters, recovering bodies and performing resuscitation attempts. His efforts, however, were not without danger. He faced floating wreckage and numerous hazards, yet persisted until he physically could not continue.
Bell Telephone News - August 1915
Features many stories of the Eastland Disaster.
Fred’s heroism wasn’t confined to the Eastland disaster. His military career, equally distinguished, left a lasting impression. Serving in the Illinois National Guard, he held various ranks from Sergeant to Captain in the Field Artillery. His bravery was again clear when he sustained a shattered jaw protecting a man from being beaten, and later, he captured auto theft suspects while serving as a lieutenant. His obituary in 1948 noted his beloved family and his long, courageous service.
San Bernardino News, January 9, 1917
Fearless Fred Lippert's Eastland Disaster heroics were just the beginning. Two years later, in 1917, he continued to face danger.
The Rescuers
On the day the Eastland capsized, many hidden heroes emerged.
George Spiegelhauer: The Rescuer and Beekeeper
Beekeepers
Keeping the neighborhood sweet!
George Spiegelhauer, born in 1882 to German immigrants in Wisconsin, also played a crucial role during the Eastland disaster. Working for the Illinois Bell Telephone Company, George was near the scene when the disaster struck. By using the limited resuscitation technology available, such as the pulmotor, he helped rescue people from the water and performed life-saving measures. His quick actions and training in reviving near-drowned persons unequivocally saved lives that day.
Unlike Fred, George led a quieter life post-disaster. He worked for Illinois Bell and had a unique hobby of beekeeping, supplying his neighbors with honey and educating nearby schools with his glass-sided hives. George lived a long life, passing away at 90, yet the Eastland disaster, where he played a heroic role, not mentioned in both his and Fred Lippert’s and obituaries.
The Importance of Remembering
These stories of Fred and George are more than historical footnotes; they are vital pieces of a larger narrative that often go untold.
Many historical groups often highlight the big picture, sometimes missing the individual acts of courage that truly define these events. By doing so, they may unintentionally overlook the incredible sacrifices and bravery of those involved.
Links!
Podcast Link: Selfless Saviors: Two Extraordinary Rescuers in the Eastland Disaster
YouTube Link: Selfless Saviors: Two Extraordinary Rescuers in the Eastland Disaster
