Collingdale Fire Company

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According to the first "minutes" of the fire company, dated October 18, 1906, "twelve citizens attended a publicized meeting in "Floral Hall" (today a private residence in the 800 block of Beechwood Avenue) for the purpose of organizing a Volunteer Fire Company." A barn across the street from Floral Hall was provided by the "Civic League" to "house" the fire equipment which the members had collected. The first Treasurer's Report was submitted on January 5, 1907. It showed reciepts of $213.63 and disbursements of $205.09, which included a payment to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad for a "locomotive tire," which served for many years as the fire alarm for the newly formed borough organization. Also purchased were twelve leather fire buckets.

In July of 1909, the company was able to purchase a lot at the corner of Clifton and Hibberd Avenues for $750.00. Just four years later, ground was broken for the first fire house -- a three story brick structure with an "engine room" on the first floor and an "entertainment hall" on the second floor rear of the building. The "town jail" was also located in this structure. The first motorized vehicle was acquired in approximately 1917. In 1921, this truck overturned while responding to a fire alarm in Darby Borough, killing one member and injuring several others. This was the first fireman "lost in the line of duty," of at least six who are currently known. As the population of Collingdale grew, the first ladder truck was purchased and "put into service" in 1928. It was a City Service Hook and Ladder vehicle. The company also started an ambulance service in 1934. Today's ambulance services responds to over 2500 calls a year.

The original firehouse was demolished in 1956. A more modern complex was constructed which was able to accommodate the larger vehicles being manufactured. Today Collingdale Volunteer Fire Company #1 owns the equivalent of slightly under a square city block bordered by Clifton, Hibberd, and Bedford Aves. During recent years, the company embarked on an ambitious building project which included the addition of vehicle bays as well as office facilities and meeting rooms. The size of the firehose physical plant has almost doubled. Membership over the years has grown from thirty six men in 1906 to over three hundred men and women currently.

(610) 583-2323
510 Clifton Avenue, Collingdale, PA 19023

collingdale1.com/

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