Galena Axle Grease
Razed in 2024, the axle grease factory was an iconic presence on the East side of the Galena River for over a century.
From the 1885 Sanborn Fire Map,
courtesy of the Library of Congress
courtesy of the Library of Congress
The undated photo at the top shows the First Ward School in the background and train cars idle on the tracks. The Sanborn Fire Maps tell the story of an expanding business.
From the 1912 Sanborn Fire Map,
courtesy of the Library of Congress
courtesy of the Library of Congress
Gaping holes in the roof have allowed water to penetrate and deteriorate the wooden structure.
Inside the second floor has collapsed where the roof is open to the sky.