Fire Sprinkler Chess Board - Handcrafted Functional Art

This extraordinary, handcrafted chess board transforms life-saving fire sprinkler components into a stunning work of art. Created by Michael J. Wos, Executive Director of the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin Charitable Foundation, the board combines craftsmanship, symbolism, and functionality in a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

The playing surface is built from premium 8/4 walnut and 8/4 cherry, finished with two coats of General Finishes Hard Wax Oil for durability and a rich luster. The pieces are made from authentic fire sprinkler heads, carefully sourced from across the country to represent each role on the board:

• Pawns - Globe 155°F Chrome Pendent Quick Response Sprinkler Heads
• Knights - Vintage 1940s Grinnell Brass Sprinkler Heads
• Bishops - Rasco Reliable Sprinkler Heads
• Rooks - Reliable Model G Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler Heads
• Queens - Upright TY3121 Sprinkler Heads, 200°F
• Kings - Reliable ESFR Pendant Sprinkler Heads, 212°F, K=22.4

Pieces are interchangeable or easily substituted for your own.

Each piece is mounted with precision using a variety of brass and black iron pipe fittings, couplers, and reducers - giving the set both durability and industrial charm.

This set also includes a secondary feature: by using additional reducers and couplers, the board can be repurposed for checkers, with PVC nipple connectors to "king" your pieces.

Raw Material Costs: $450

As a handcrafted, artistic showcase piece, its collector and display value is far greater than the sum of materials.

This Fire Sprinkler Chess Board is not only playable but also serves as a symbolic reminder of the importance of fire protection systems. If not sold, it will be featured at the Metropolitan Builders Show (January) and the Realtors Home & Garden Show, representing the work of the Wisconsin Fire Sprinkler Coalition to raise awareness and overcome barriers to residential fire sprinkler installation.

A functional conversation piece, a statement of craftsmanship, and a tribute to fire safety innovation - this chess board is truly one of a kind.