Big Steve
Artist / Creator
Frank Christian
Date
ca.1880
Description
Built in 1860 and located at the intersection of Eight and Greene Streets, Big Steve was the warning system that the city of Augusta depended on for fire detection. In a time when a lot of buildings were made of wood and fire fighting technology was not what it is today, a large bell in the center of the tower would ring loudly to alert the city to an inferno. High above the tree tops, a man would keep watch for any signs of smoke. Big Steve served faithfully until it was torn down in 1894.
Credit Line
Donated by Frank Christian Jr. The son and grand-nephew of the photographers of the Frank Christian Collection.
Location
Storage
Object ID
2016.001.m.0066
