In 1895, the original Chris Corrigan served as a local firefighter in Central Falls, Rhode Island, where he recognized a pressing need within his community. Being our great-great grandfather, he utilized a horse and wagon to provide vital assistance in lifting and transporting heavy objects, particularly caskets. At that time, funeral parlors were scarce, and it was customary for wakes to be held in people’s homes. In densely populated urban areas like Central Falls, Pawtucket, and Providence, many residences spanned multiple floors without the luxury of elevators. Witnessing this challenge, Chris Corrigan identified an opportunity to aid his neighbors by devising rigging systems to safely hoist caskets through windows and lower them to the sidewalk.

In the late 19th century, the absence of funeral parlors in Rhode Island communities necessitated creative solutions for handling funeral arrangements. Chris Corrigan’s innovative spirit and compassionate nature led him to address the practical difficulties faced by his neighbors during times of mourning. Recognizing the logistical hurdles posed by multi-story homes without elevators, he stepped in to provide support, offering his expertise in rigging systems to safely maneuver heavy caskets. Through his dedication to serving the community, Chris Corrigan not only fulfilled a crucial need but also established a legacy of compassion and assistance that would endure for generations to come.