History
of The Oreland Fire Company
Fire Company Charter is dated
1908 with the following officers recorded:
| President
William Brous |
Treasurer
Bradley Alger |
| Vice
President Frank Potter |
Secretary
E. S. Moore |
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Directors
Frank Potter, Edward Babcock, Walter Lanagan
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The
first recorded minutes, found so far, start January 2, 1911.
1911
1912 1913 1914
1915
1916 1917 1918
1919 1920
1921 1922 1923
1924 1925 1926
Our
Historical Membership list is also available for your perusal
1911
First
Meeting Date: January 2, 1911
Officers present at this
meeting:
- President William
Supplee
- Vice President Carl
Geiselman
- Secretary John Smith
- Trustees G. Hallman,
A.Wilbur Montayne
- 1st Assistant Chief Lachenmairer
Other members present
were:
- W.J. Fallows, John Turner,
Harry Wood, W, Frazier Harrison, Paul Maijoy, William Cressman, John Montayne,
William Clancey, A.G. Ewer, R.G. Campbell and William Maguire.
Meetings were held in Aiman's
Hall, which was located on the 100 block of Plymouth Ave. At the time the fire
company owned a fire wagon, a horse drawn wagon, without the horse. Manpower
was the prime mover of the day when fire struck.. It's unknown at this point
when it was purchased, who it was purchased from or how much it cost.
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This
picture was taken July 4th 1921 at the First Oreland Fourth of July Parade.
The wagon is believed to be the fire company's first fire vehicle. The sign
in the wagon is advertising for the Fire Company Carnival that was to be
held July 28 - 30. |
Other significant events
from 1911 meetings:
- The fire company purchased
two lots (458 &459) between Roesch, Ulmer, Caldwell Avenues and the railroad.
The lots had back taxes assessed to them; School Tax $0.25 plus a penalty
of $0.17 as well as Road Tax of $0.32.
- Fire insurance policy
came due and the annual bill was $12.00, which the fire company thought was
excessive. A committee was appointed to look into the matter and found insurance
for $9.00 per year.
- Delegates to the Montgomery
County Fireman's Association reported that they had attended the January 1911
meeting and that they had informed said group about the new Fire Phone the
fire company was having installed. We had a contract with Bell Telephone to
install the phone in Lachenmairers house.
- The fire company purchased
a Hat and Coat for Chief Schniepp, "so that he may be known at fires". Purchased
from Eureka Hose Company for $12.50.
- A letter of appreciation
was drafted and sent to Mr. J.E. Turner for using his automobile to pull the
fire wagon to the February 19 fire at Mr. Comly"s Stable in Edge Hill.
- Plans were being made
to build a 50' X 50' two story Fire House. There was also talk of perhaps
making it 60' X 30'.
- A committee was appointed
to make the necessary arrangements for the Baseball Team.
- The building committee
reported that the building fund had reached $345.01.
- It was approved to sound
the fire company bell 5 times on the evenings of meetings.
- The company notified
the Montgomery County Fireman's Association that 20 members and 16 band members
would attend the October Fireman's Parade in Hatboro. A Fife and Drum bad
was hired for $35.00 to attend with the fire company. In preparation for the
parade: One gallon of Wagon Polish was purchased, $1.10. A team of horse was
hired to pull the wagon through the parade. Another team was donated to pull
the fire company to the parade and back home. A red tail lamp was purchased
for the wagon, $4.00.
- In November a special
meeting was called to act on a proposal by Mr. John Gundlach who wished to
exchange lots with the fire company. He currently owned two lots, 428 & 429,
located on the west side of Roesch Avenue that he would trade for the lots
the fire company owned, 458 & 459. It was unanimously approved.
- Another Special Meeting
was called in November to address the issues with starting the construction
of the firehouse. It was approved to put 4 windows instead of three on the
60' sides of the building. The committee was authorized to begin construction
as soon as possible.
- An invitation was received
from the Wyndmoor Fire Company to attend their Thanksgiving day parade and
housing. A letter was sent stating that due to the fact that we are building
a fire house and had just attended that Hatboro Parade that we could not afford
to attend.
- Some of the lumber to
be used for the building was purchased from the contractor at the Gas Works
building for $20.00. John Gundlach charged the fire company $5.25 for himself
and a helper to haul the wood up to the site.
(Back
to Top)
1912
Officers for the year
were:
- President - E.F. Swartz
- Vice President - J.
Milton Brooks
- Secretary - J.E. Smith
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Thomas Lachenmairer
- Second Assistant Chief
- Leonard Schaffer
Significant events:
- Special meeting was called
to discuss whether the building should be one or two stories. It was ordered
that a two-story structure be built, 60' X 30' with a cellar, 8' in the clear
under the building. It being allowed that the building not cost over $3500.00,
heating included!
- Rent was paid for the
storage of the Fire Wagon, $25.00 per year.
- A communication was received
from the Township Commissioners regarding our request for donations from township
funds. It stated that they were sorry they could not comply but that there
was a state law granting them the right.
- Special meeting was called
for in May to continue discussions about the building. It was held in Montaynes
Hall (location unknown) and posters were put up around town announcing it.
Drawings of the proposed building were presented to the company and unanimously
adopted.
- Special Meeting was called
to hear bids on the proposed Fire House. Mr. E. Montaynes bid, being the lowest,
was accepted. The members also felt that slate should be used for the roof.
- A Communication was received
from Flourtown Fire Co. in regards to a Lawn Social. It was motioned to be
received and filed.
- Building Committee was
authorized to borrow the sum of $1500.00 from Jenkintown trust to cover the
proposed Fire House to be located on lots 428 & 429 of Roesch Ave.
- Motioned and approved
to enter into contract with E. Montayne to build the Fire House according
to plans and specifications for the sum of $3070.00.
- A communication from
the Montgomery County Fireman's Association was received inviting us to a
parade in Lansdale October 12.1912. Owing to the fact that we are about to
build a Fire House, it would be impossible for us to attend.
- It was unanimously resolved
that this company is moved to sorrow by the death of our esteemed member E.
M. Dickinson.
- Contractor E. Montayne
felt the bond on $3000.00 was too much. Montayne, present at the meeting,
stated the owing to his low bid he was unable to pay the premium on the bond
but felt he could afford a $1500.00 bond. The company instructed the Secretary
to communicate with attorney to lower the bond. If this could not be done
the fire company would pay the difference. Communication received from attorney,
High, in regards to reducing the bond was read and approved.
- It was motioned and approved
that the wagon be cleaned as soon as possible. The president suggested that
we notify the members of the lack of interest that is shown and request their
presence at the meetings. On motion and seconded the suggestion was adopted.
Trustees reported the wagon was cleaned.
(Back
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1913
Officers for the year:
- President - E. F.
Schwarz
- Vice President - John
Wilkinson
- Secretary - J. F.
Hummel
- Treasurer - A. L.
Aiman
- Chief - Thomas Lachenmairer
- First Assistant Chief
- Chas. Schniepp
- Second Assistant Chief
- Leonard Schaffer
Significant events:
- Motioned and carried
that the Secretary answer a communication received from Jenkintown Trust,
being unable to secure stone for the foundation the has not been started.
- Motioned and carried
that the members reconsider building as planned and contracted for.
- Motioned and carried
that a one story building be erected not to exceed $2000.00
- Motioned and carried
that the insurance on the wagon be paid, $9.00
- Mr. Gundlach submitted
a bill of $48.95 for digging the cellar. A motion was made to measure the
cellar and if found OK that said bill be paid, carried.
- A Motion that $25.00
be drawn from the building fund to meet small bills during construction, carried.
- Motioned and carried
that a check for $500.00 be sent to Jenkintown Trust to reduce the mortgage.
- A carnival was held in
Aimans Hall November 20,21,22 & 23 (apparently of 1912) for the benefit of
the fire company building fund. Event raised $199.72. Euchre and Dance were
held in Aiman's Hall February 24 for the benefit of the fire company. There
was a net deficit of $0.20.
- Motioned and carried
that a committee of three be appointed to meet with the commissioners in regards
to appropriation from township.
- The secretary was instructed
to notify the Wissahickon Fire Company that we would not be able to attend
their October 11, 1913 parade.
- A Motion that the $50.00
check received from the township be deposited in a separate account, carried.
- October 6, 1913 (apparently
the first) Meeting held in the new Fire House!
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- A breakdown of
the cost for the building:
- John Gundlach
- Labor $70.20
- Ed Montayne
- Carpentry Work $395.25
- P and R Co.
- Freight $42.88
- S. Cristaldi
& Bros. - Mason & Brickwork $336.00
- Thomas Lachamair
- Labor $90.84
- Allan Haldeman
- Brick $105.00
- W.C. Fleck
& Bros. - Harware $11.18
- F.G.Justice
- Lumber $570.00
- Benjamin Shoemaker
- Glass $19.00
- Harry Lachot
- Cement $4.32
- Magnesia Covering
Co. - Roof $197.42
- H.M. Oberholtzer
- Plastering $45.00
- John Schlimme
- Stone $35.50
- John Cannon
- Lime $53.50
- Shannon Hardware
Co. - Hardware $25.12
- E.C. Sleanth
- Painting $77.28
- Joseph Hunsberger
- Insurance $24.00
- Arthur Draske
- Insurance $15.00
- S.S. Cassel
- Spouting $17.52
- Edge Hill Silica
Rock Co. - Sand $6.75
- Suburban Gas
& Electric - Lights $37.75
- Jenkintown
Trust Co. - Interest $12.90
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- Total expended by the
Building Committee $2217.14
- The extra nails and lumber
were sold for a total of $0.47
- The following donation
in material and labor were received from: John Schlimme - Stone $70.00 H.M.
Oberholtzer - Plastering $5.00 (off bill) Mr. Gillingham - Brick $7.50 F.G.
Justice - Lumber $7.20 (off bill) Making the actual total to date $2307.11
- First Purchases for the
new building Coal Stove - $15.00 Chairs - $16.00 Shipping for both - $1.15
(Back
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1914
Officers for the year:
- President - John
Turner
- Vice President - Chas.
Zoll
- Secretary - J.F. Hummel
- (acting) Treasurer -
A. L. Aiman
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Thomas Lachenmairer
- Second Assistant Chief
- John Bowen
Significant Events:
- Motioned and carried
that the fire company collect old newspapers for the residents once a month.
- Motioned and carried
that a committee be appointed to raise money to meet expenses. Committee appointed
to ascertain the cost of a pool table. Special meeting called to discuss pool
table proposal. Prices ranged from $75.00 to $180.00. It was motioned that
we purchase the $75.00 model and have it installed prior to the next regular
meeting.
- Motion to purchase curtains
and a desk, carried.
- Receipts from pool table
$3.76!
(Back
to Top)
1915
Officers for the year:
- President - Leonard
Schaffer
- Vice President - William
Marcellous
- Secretary - J.F. Hummel
- (acting) Treasurer -
A. L. Aiman
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Thomas Lachamair
- Second Assistant Chief
- John Klieber
Significant Events:
- A report of the Christmas
Day Fire in Glenside, 1914: " The Oreland Vol. Fire Company received an
alarm at 9:50 Christmas morning, December 25 to come to big fire at Glenside.
We arrived at fire about 10:30 attached to a plug about one & half squares
from fire but could not get any pressure, disconnected and joined with Fort
Washington and Rockledge Co's. got water from creek 1800 ft. from fire and
worked until 4:30 PM when fire was under control. The fire was at F. G. Justice
Lumber yard and Morris Wolf's Stables. Loss estimated at $100,000.00. The
firemen present at fire L. Schaffer, Thomas Lachamair, Fred Lachamair, William
Lachamair, William Supplee, Chas. Zoll, Walter Fallows, Mr. Trindle, Mr. Dickerson
and Chas Schniepp."
- A note was sent to the
Glenside Fire Company to let them know that none of the Oreland Fire Company
took meals at Emerson's Restaurant during the fire.
- It was motioned and carried
that Jacob Schniepp be paid $3.00 for taking the apparatus to the fire.
- It was motioned and carried
that Chas Schniepp be authorized to purchase 7 pairs of gum boots. $23.56
- September 6, "As we
received call to fire at Duffield's place on Church Road near Enfield, meeting
was declared adjourned."
(Back
to Top)
1916
Officers for the year:
- President - Leonard
Schaffer
- Vice President - E.
C. Sleath
- Secretary - J.F. Hummel
- Treasurer - A. L.
Aiman
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Thomas Lachamair
- Second Assistant Chief
- John Bowen
Significant Events:
There are only two meetings
recorded for 1916:
- Motioned and carried
that the church be allowed to use the hall October 14, to hold a package party.
- Mr. John Bowen was appointed
a committee of one to see about selling the old newspapers. Received $25.14.
(Back
to Top)
1917
Officers for the year:
- President - Leonard
Schaffer
- Vice President - E.
C. Sleath
- Secretary - J.F. Hummel
- Treasurer - A. L.
Aiman
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Thomas Lachamair
- Second Assistant Chief
- John Bowen
Significant Events:
Only three meetings were
recorded for the year.
(Back
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1918
Officers for the year:
- President - H.C. Jones
- Vice President - Chas
Zoll
- Secretary - Lloyd
Fallows (E.C. Sleath appointed to fill term as Fallows
was called to duty)
- Treasurer - A. L.
Aiman
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Chas Weigner
- Second Assistant Chief
- William Marcellous
Significant Events:
- Walter Cooper and A.
Corbin had a Ford Chemical truck at the January meeting for the members to
look over. The fire company agreed that the truck was too small for our use.
- "In going to a fire
at Edge Hill, Pa. - the Glenside Fire Company broke the pole on our wagon"
(March 1918)
- "Mr. G.C. Rittenhouse
gave a talk on Savings Stamps explaining fully the good of buying the stamps."
It was motioned and carried that the fire company buy $103.75 (25 @ $4.15)
worth of War Savings Stamps as an investment.
- It was motioned and carried
that a War Saving Society be started in the fire company.
- A Communication was received
from the Montgomery County Firemen's Association inviting us to a Smoker being
held at the Parkway Building in Philadelphia May 11, 1918.
- Lloyd Fallows called
to Service in April 1918.
- A communication from
the township commissioners was read in reference to having 3-5 of the members
to act as Special Fire Police whose duty it will be to keep order at all fires
and to be at the call of the township police. Three members were appointed;
Charles Schniepp, Thomas Lachamair and A.L. Aiman.
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1919
Officers for the year:
- President - J.H.
Hutchinson
- Vice President - Leonard
Schaffer
- Secretary - E.C. Sleath
- Treasurer - A. L.
Aiman
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Chas Weigner
- Second Assistant Chief
- William Marcellous
Significant Events:
- Communication from the
Ladies Auxiliary of Christ Evangelical Church asking permission to use the
fire house in which to hold a Package Party and Rummage Sale on February 15.
Granted.
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1920
Officers for the year:
- President - Leonard
Schaffer
- Vice President - F.
F. Potter
- Secretary - G. W.
Weidener
- Treasurer - A. L.
Aiman
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- William Marcellous
- Second Assistant Chief
- A. L. Aiman
Significant Events:
- Walter Cooper and A.
Corbin had a Ford Chemical truck at the January meeting for the members to
look over. The fire company agreed that the truck was too small for our use.
- Christ Evangelical Church
presented a piano to the fire company.
- A communication was received
from the township commissioners stating that the board had appropriated $300
to the fire company.
- The Automobile Committee
reported that the machine was in the paint shop.
- A motion was made that
the fire company confer with Hoopes and Townsend Steel Company regarding steel
supports for the floor, carried.
- A communication was read
from the Brotherhood of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church of Oreland asking
for the donation of the sign used in the recent financial campaign (Presumably
the truck fund). Motioned and passed to donate the sign.
- A correction was made
to the 1911 minutes, which incorrectly identified the lots owned by the fire
company as 458 and 459. The correct lot numbers were 448 and 449.
- A motion was passed that
a committee be appointed to visit the township commissioners regarding repairs
to the streets. The President appointed the entire membership on the committee.
- A motion was passed that
the Springfield Water Company be requested to make a test of the fire plugs.
- A communication was read
from the township commissioners stating that a test of the apparatus of the
township fire companies would be held Saturday June 12th at the Chestnut Hill
Lake.
- Fire Truck delivered
from Hale in May.
- President appointed Milton
Yerkes and George Weidener as Truck Drivers.
- It as motioned and passed
that the Fire Company Phone be moved to Aiman's store.
- A motion was passed that
the fire truck is not to be run over 20 miles per hour. It was also motioned
and passed that the chief make a monthly report of the trips made by the truck.
- A notice was read at
a special meeting that the Montgomery County Fireman's Association was holding
a Demonstration and Contest Saturday, August 21 at the Willow Grove Park.
It was motioned and passed that the fire company attend with the new fire
truck whether they enter the contest or not.
- The fire truck responded
to one fire in November, a Fitzwatertown Road hay shed belonging to Aaron
Nagel. Eight members and the chief attended, 11/26 at 9:0PM.
1921
Officers for the year:
- President - Leonard
Schaffer
- Vice President - Charles
Pool Sr.
- Secretary - G. W.
Weidener
- Treasurer - A. L.
Aiman
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Ellis Baker (resigned); Robert Kennedy
- Second Assistant Chief
- Robert Ewer
Significant Events:
- The Secretary was instructed
to ascertain from the Springfield Water Company the cost of installing water
in the fire house.
- It was motioned and passed
that the fire company purchase 200 feet of Eureka Blue Diamond Fire Hose for
$1.15 per foot.
- It was motioned and passed
that the fire company charter be framed and hung in the fire house.
- A rising vote of thanks
was extended to Mr. Emerick and Mr. Riley, of the Edge Hill Fire Company for
their work in repairing our pump.
- The Fire Truck costs
began to rack up! From August 1920 when the truck was put in service:
- 8/20 Active Tire
and Tube - $16.20
- 12/20 New Spark Plugs
- donation
- 1/21 Herb Seddon,
Repairs - $1.70
- 2/21 Colonial Garage,
Carburetor - $59.18
- 2/21 Glenside Garage,
Repairs - $1.00
- 2/21 Active Tire
& Tube - $4.45
- 2/21 Seddon's - Repairs
$3.50
- 4/21 Philadelphia
Gas & Electric, charge the battery - $1.50
- 4/21 William Jardine,
Repairs - $8.50
- 6/21 Truck went to
Seddon's for repairs, it came back 9/21 $858.91
- 10/21 Colonial Garage
- $98.36
- Assistant Fire Marshal
Walter Hook attended the April meeting and spoke to the fire company about
fighting fires in our district.
- The Bylaws of the fire
company were revised and included the addition of a Chief Engineer.
- In September a special
election was held to fill the office of Chief Engineer and the office of First
Assistant Chief (Ellis Baker resigned). Paul Martin was elected as the First
Chief Engineer.
- It was motioned and passed
that the Oreland Community Brotherhood be given the privilege of using the
building on December 17th.
- The fire company received
$30.00 from Mrs. Stout for pumping out her cesspool.
- It was motioned and approved
that the $300 received from the township be used to pay on account to Herb
Seddon.
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1922
Officers for the year:
- President - William
Calverly Sr.
- Vice President - Charles
Pool Sr.
- Secretary - G. W.
Weidener
- Treasurer - W. Marcellous
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Robert Kennedy
- Second Assistant Chief
- James Trindle
- Chief Engineer - Paul
Martin
Significant Events:
- A loan of $400.00 was
negotiated to be used to pay the balance due Herb Seddon for repairs to the
fire truck.
- It was motioned and passed
that a motion picture show be held February 4th.
- A letter was drafted
and sent to William J. Bysher thanking him for the donation of a Ford truck
to the fire company and making him an honorary member.
- A committee of three
attended the township commissioners meeting and placed the financial condition
of the company before them. The commissioners voted to give each of the three
fire companies in the township $500 for the year 1922.
- Chief Schniepp reported:
- A False Alarm was
received on February 20th.
- The company reported
to a brush fire at Militia Hill March 26th.
- The Fire Company
responded to a fire in Willow Grove, May 2nd.
- May 31st a fire at
Keating's Chicken house.
- In August the Fire
Company responded to one fire. It was a garage fire at the house of Mr.
W. H. Calverley Sr., president of the Fire Company, on Park Ave. 10 men
and the Chief responded and limited the loss to $200.00.
- Nov. 13th a barn
fire on Church Rd., $5000 loss. 3 men and the truck responded at 3:30
Pm and returned at 5:00 PM.
- Nov. 20th a barn
fire on Fitzwatertown Rd., $2000 loss. 4 men and the truck responded at
5:00 Pm and returned at 6:00 PM.
- Nov 20th a field
fire at Oreland, no loss. 6 men and the truck responded at 6:00 PM and
returned at 7:00 PM.
- Nov. 25th a house
fire on Jenkintown Rd at Roberts Ave., false alarm. 8 men and the truck
responded at 6:00 Pm and returned at 7:00 PM.
- Nov. 28th a field
fire at Oreland, no loss. 5 men with the chemical extinguisher responded
at 7:00 PM.
- Chief Engineer P. Martin
reported that a pump test with a representative of the Hale Pump Co. present
was held. He adjusted the pump and stated that same was in good working order.
- A "Commissioners Test"
was held June 2nd. This was apparently a test held annually by the commissioners
to assure that all the fire trucks in the township were capable of pumping
water.
- A motion was passed that
the Chief Engineer be authorized to remove the lock on the fourth gear of
the machine.
- It was motioned and passed
that the old fire wagon be sold to Adam Faust for $25.00
- It was motioned and passed
that a committee of ladies be appointed to organize a Ladies Auxiliary of
the Fire Company:
- Mrs. G. Weidner
- Miss B. Calverley
- Mrs. J. Hummel
- Mrs. C. Schniepp
- Mrs. C. Fallows
- Mrs. N. Reed
- Mrs. H. Thomas
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1923
Officers for the year:
- President - William
Calverly Sr.
- Vice President - Charles
Pool Sr.
- Secretary - G. W.
Weidener
- Treasurer - W. Marcellous
- Chief - Chas. Schniepp
- First Assistant Chief
- Howard Thomas
- Second Assistant Chief
- James Trindle
- Chief Engineer - Leonard
Shaffer
Significant Events:
- The Secretary reported
that he had subscribed to five share of the Oreland Building Association and
made a donation of the first payment. It was motioned and passed that the
action of the Secretary be ratified and that the treasurer be authorized to
make the future payments of $5.00 per month.
- A discussion was took
place regarding the formation of an active department and a relief fund for
the same. A Committee was appointed. The committee reported at the next meeting
that the Commissioners would not divide the balance of the funds received
from insurance companies.
- A letter was received
from the township commissioners requesting a budget be forwarded of the expenses
of 1923. It was motioned and approved that the Secretary be authorized to
forward a budget and that he ask for an increase in our appropriation and
a share of the Foreign Insurance Tax.give each of the three fire companies
in the township $500 for the year 1922.
- A committee was appointed
to purchase a motion picture machine.
- Chief Schniepp reported
the following fires:
- March 20th a field
fire at the Sands property on Church Rd. 14 men and 2 trucks (apparently
the Ford was finally up and running.)
- March 22nd a field
fire at the Sands property again, 11 men and 2 trucks.
- April 2nd a field
fire at Limekiln Pike. and Waverly Rd.
- April 2nd a field
fire between Ardsley and Hillside
- April 2nd a field
fire at the Sands property yet again.
- April 18th the property
of Adam Faust, roof and field, 5 men, the truck and 500 feet of hose.
Called at 10:00 AM, in service for one hour.
- April 23rd a field
fire at Limekiln Pike and Camp Hill Rd, 4 men and the truck.
- May 6th at Erdenhiem,
the Commissioners Test Call, 10 men and two trucks.
- July 27th at the
Arbuckle-Gordon Lumber Yard in Fort Washington, 4 men, the truck and 600
feet of hose were in service for 1 ½ hours.
- June 16th at the
Three Tun's Hotel property, 8 men, the truck and 800 feet of hose were
in service for two hours.
- July 1st at the Orange
Home Barn in Hatboro, 8 men the truck and 800 feet of hose were in service
for four hours.
- August 17th Fitzwatertown,
a barn belonging to Mr. Hanken
- August 23rd Barren
Hill, Marble Hall
- October 1st 4:30
AM, Camp Hill, Mrs. G. Caldwell's
- October 2nd 4:00
AM, Flourtown, a garage - 10 men and a truck
- November 6th 1:30
AM, Hatboro - 8 men and a truck
- A private phone line
was installed between the Fire House and the Gas Works Plant for a cost of
$35.53.
- A committee was appointed
to secure estimates for the erection of a kitchen on the rear of the building.
- No meeting or minutes
of any meetings in May, June and July.
- A committee was appointed
to inaugurate a drive for the purchase of Chemical Truck.
- It was motioned and passed
that the Chief Engineer get the brake bands, steering knuckle and the emergency
brake dogs fixed.
- It was motioned and passed
to purchase and install a new heater. $125.68
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1924
Officers for the year:
- President - William
Calverly Sr. (deceased in office); Charles Pool Sr.
- Vice President - Charles
Pool Sr./ E.H. Breisecher
- Secretary - G. W.
Weidener
- Treasurer - Ralph
Shinn
- Chief - George Daniels
- First Assistant Chief
- Fred Gentner Sr.
- Second Assistant Chief
- Howard Thomas
- Chief Engineer - Louis
Poole
Significant Events:
- Chief Schniepp reported
the following fires:
- January 6th - Sands
Farm, Church Rd., a field - 7 men and a truck were in service for 1 hour.
- Chief Daniels reported
the following fires:
- January 24th Glenside,
235 Brookdale Ave., Ernest Edenbach's - 12 men and two trucks were in service
for one hour.
- March 14th, Jenkintown
and Easton, Weldon, a shed. Truck & 10 men, Ford Truck & 3 men, out 10:30
PM and back at 11:15 PM.
- March 23rd , Property
of Alfred Walker, Linden Ave. North Glenside. Truck & 9 men, out 4:30 AM
back 6:00 AM.
- April 15th, Cadwalader's
Woods, Truck & 4 men, 300 feet of hose and 15 gallons of chemical. Out 3:45
PM and back at 5:15 PM. Castles Quarry, Jenkintown and Edge Hills Rds. 2
trucks and 15 men. Out 11:00 PM and back at 11:30 PM
- September 29, Dr. Edward
A. Rile in Blue Bell. 2 trucks and 13 men. Out 4:45 AM and returned 6:00
AM.
- October 6th, Comley's
Barn in Flourtown. 2 trucks and 9 men, Out at 4:00 AM returned at 4:45 AM.
- October 8th, Desston
Estate, Stenton Ave above Joshua. House, barn and chicken house, 2 trucks
and 15 men. Out at 6:05 PM and returned at 7:15 PM.
- October 13th, Mrs.
Anna E. Miller, Limekiln Pike near Jarrettown. Barn, a truck and 8 men,
Out at 3:00 PM and returned at 4:00PM
- October 30th, Pennsylvania
Ave. a hay stack. A truck and 10 men left at 10:30 PM and returned at 12:30
AM
- November 22nd, City
Line and Reading Pike, a restaurant. 2 trucks and 12 men left at 2:45 AM
and returned at 3:15 AM
- The following resolution
was passed in March 1924:
In Memoriam
William H. Calverley
Died March
2, 1924
Whereas
William H. Calverley
Beloved citizen of Oreland
President of the Oreland Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1
President of Oreland Community Brotherhood
Member of the Troop Committee, Oreland Troop, Boy Scouts of America
Director of the Oreland Building Association
has, in the working out of the Divine Plan, been taken from this life at the peak of his usefulness;
and Whereas, we are deeply conscious of the benefit that came to this community through his efforts
as well as by reason of the self effacing example of this God fearing, clean and clear thinking, charitable,cheerful, loveable man;
and Whereas, there can be no doubt that a life such as this is an ideal to be studied and emulated by
all, for he certainly left the world a better place than he found it;
and Whereas, Great as in our sorrow we cannot fail to realize that those joined to him by family ties must the more keenly feel the loss;
therefore, be it Resolved , that we hereby record our heartfelt appreciation of his services in our behalf,
and testify to the profound regret that he could not have been spared to us for many more years;
and be it further Resolved that these preambles be spread upon our minutes and that our Secretary be and hereby is directed to forward
an attested copy to the bereaved family.
- Chief Engineer Poole
reported that the damaged step on the truck would be repaired at the Tank
Car Corporation Shop.
- A Representative from
Maxam & Groseclose Insurance detailed a plan for group insurance covering
all members of the fire Company while on duty. It provided a $1000 death benefit
and $15 weekly disability payments. The yearly premium was $112.50. A committee
was appointed to raise the required funds.
- A motion was passed that
the Fire Company purchase a 50 gallon drum of lubricating oil for use by the
Company and for sale to members, for $22.50.
- A special election was
held to replace President Wm. Calverley. Charles Pool was elected then another
election was held to replace Mr. Pool who had been Vice President. E.H. Breisecher
was elected.
- It was motioned and passed
that a light be kept burning in front of the Fire House all night.
- It was motioned and approved
to amend the bylaws to allow the chief to appoint his assistant chiefs.
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1925
Officers for the year:
- President - George
H. Weidener
- Vice President - Henry
Lowes
- Secretary - Albert
Cranks
- Treasurer - J. Ralph
Shinn
- Chief - William Mower
- First Assistant Chief
-
- Second Assistant Chief
-
- Chief Engineer - Louis
Poole (resigned); David Gundlach
Significant Events:
- Chief Mower reported:
- January 1st, Haystack
at Oreland, a truck and eight men.
- January 24th, Tank
Car Corp., waste tar. A truck and eight men left at 4:40 PM and returned
at 4:55 PM
- March 17th, Haystack,
Miners property at Oreland. Out 11:30 and returned at 12:45 AM. A truck
and eight men. No service.
- March 27th, Field
fire, Enfield, two trucks and ten men left at 3:00 PM and returned a 4:45
PM. 250 feet of hose and 30 gallons of chemical.
- March 27th, Haystack,
North Glenside. One truck and seven men left at 7:15 PM and returned at
7:35 PM. No service.
- March 27th, Field
fire, Newbold's one truck and 8 men left at 10:30 PM and returned at 11:45
PM. 10 gallons of chemical.
- April 27th, J. H.
Allens property at Enfield. A truck and 5 men left at 3:00 PM and returned
at 3:45 PM. 250 feet of hose.
- April 27th, Camp
Hill Woods. Two trucks and 12 men left at 7:10 and returned at 8:55 PM.
Ten gallons of chemical used and Fort Washington fire Company was called
to assist .
- August 20th, A rubbish
Pile, Tank Car Corp. One truck and three men left at 5:40 PM and returned
at 6:45 PM. 750 feet of hose.
- August 27th, a box
car of Lime at the Oreland Freight Yard. One truck and three men left
at 2:20 PM and returned at 4:45 PM. 750 feet of hose.
- September 2nd, Coxes
Limekiln and Warehouse. One truck and eight men left at 8:40 PM and returned
at 9:45 PM. No service.
- September 25th, Haystack
at Oreland. One truck and six men left at 9:30 and returned at 10:00 PM.
No service
- In February the 4th District
meeting was held at the Oreland Volunteer Fire Co. Chief Duckworth and his
assistant was the guest of the evening.
- The Chief Engineer reported
at the February meeting that the weather was to bad to take the truck for
repairs.
- 390 feet of hose was
repaired making a total of 1190 feet of serviceable hose.
- It was motioned and passed
that the fire company would be represented at the housing of Flourtown's new
engine, June 20th.
- Chief Mower brought up
the question of uniforms for the parade and housing of Flourtown's new truck.
Prices to be procured and that members were to purchase same.
- Chief Mower reported
that he inspected Manufacturers Country Club and stated that they are well
equipped with hose and extinguishers, 3 plugs on the grounds, a 260,000 gallon
reservoir and pumps on the Sandy Run Creek capable of pumping 400 gallons
per minute.
- The Simplex truck had
the packing replaced - $13.95
- A motion was passed that
we accept the truck presented to us by the Flourtown Fire Company and that
a letter sent to same specifying our gratitude for this splendid gift. (Apparently
a Locomobile Chemical Truck)
- At the August 3rd, meeting
Louis Pool resigned. David Gundlach was elected to the office the following
meeting.
- A letter of thanks was
written to Mr. Hale of Tank Car Corporation for the time and help given for
springs and wrenches.
- It was motioned and approved
that a set of chains be purchased for the Locomobile at a cost of $6.70, but
it cost $12.90 to ship them via Reading Freight.
(Back
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1926
Officers for the year:
- President - George
H. Weidener
- Vice President - William
H. Calverly
- Secretary - Albert
Cranks
- Treasurer - J. Ralph
Shinn
- Chief - William Mower
- First Assistant Chief
-
- Second Assistant Chief
-
- Chief Engineer - David
Gundlach
Significant Events:
(Back
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A
few more pictures...
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1938 Fire
Crew
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1940 Fire
Crew
|
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