Photo from F.F.F.D. Facebook page
As the Fergus Falls Fire Department celebrates its 150th year of service, it is worth reflecting on the many changes that have taken place since its humble beginnings in 1873.
The department’s original equipment consisted of six ladders, 18 buckets, two axes, and two pike poles.
In 1882 our city council appointed Fred W Burnham the first Fire Chief for Fergus Falls.
Fergus Falls Fire Chief Ryan Muchow shared some of the interesting history of the department,
“In 1882 the Fire Department purchased a Silsby steam engine, the engine cost was $5,150 just to show that vast difference a recently purchased fire engine from 2021 costs approximately $562,000”
“In 1883 city council awarded for a water works system” Which is what we use today, which is the fire hydrant, but used to be termed plugs.
Ryan also added what Fire Fighters made that long ago,
“In 1892 the Fire department was a paid per call. $1 for the 1st hour and .50 per hour after that”
Today a fire fighter receives between $11 and $18 an hour depending on rank and position.
In Contrast, the department boasts state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained firefighters who are ready to respond to any emergency.
As we celebrate the department’s impressive legacy, it’s important to recognize the challenges that the department still faces.
One concern is the ever-growing urbanization of cities creates new risks for firefighters as they navigate through unfamiliar buildings and streets.
In the face of these obstacles, the Fergus Falls Fire Department remains at the forefront, exhibiting what it means to serve and protect the community.
Our Fire Fighters continuously train and implement new technologies and techniques to fight fires and save lives, all while fostering trust and accountability with the public.
The department’s dedication to ensuring a coordinated and effective response to any crisis is evident in their close collaboration with other emergency responders, including police and paramedics.
Most importantly, it will mean staying true to the department’s original mission of putting the needs of the community first.
As Prince Albert Honeycutt and his fellow founders knew 150 years ago, the fire department is not just a collection of equipment and buildings, but a vital part of the social fabric of a community.
By staying true to this ideal, the Fergus Falls Fire Department will continue to be a source of pride and inspiration for generations to come.
The Fire Department is currently planning for a breakfast feed on the last Sunday in April, 30th