~ THE 1900's ~

With the turn of the century, many new ideas and equipment would be put into service. There would be a new Chief as well. Many things would still be handled in the traditional way but results were better because of the constant upgrading of equipment Under Chief J. Henry Gleason, the Combination 1 was put into service with William Berry as Foreman.

In 1902 a devastating fire (see pictures of fires) consumed the Town Hall, destroying the old town and fire department records, plus the library and other businesses housed within the old building. Much praise was given by Chief Gleason to the heroic men who braved the winter elements to fight the fire. The first alarm sounded minutes before midnight, December 25. It was below zero and there was five inches of snow on the ground The men contained the terrible fire and prevented it from spreading to other buildings.


In 1903, the Pleasant Street Fire Station contained a three cell police lockup in the cellar. With
construction under way for the new facility, the lockup would be moved. `

In 1904, Chief Gleason retired and was replaced by Charles Andrews. Another fire in 1904 caused $10,000 damage to the Corey Block. In 1905, Civil Service was adopted and required an exam to become a permanent member. By 1906 the department had 61 men, mostly call men, five front line pieces and four spare wagons, seven good horses, four station houses and 35 alarm boxes throughout the City. In 1910 the department was in good shape; equipment in top-notch condition. A request for two replacement horses were made.


At issue was the need of a central fire station and a location was chosen. A new station, along with a police station and court house would be built at Bolton and Main Streets. It was built for $55,000, about 3% of the cost of anew facility today. The building was dedicated on August 7, 1909.
 
 

Left - picture of the new Central Fire House shortly after being built.


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