|
History
of
The Enfield Volunteer Fire Company Inc.
In the fall of 1947 discussions began to establish a Fire Company. Meetings were held at Newhart's Store in Enfield Center and at the Town Hall with approximately 50 men interested.
1948
January 1948 the first elections of officers was held. The elected officers were Chief James VanOrder, Captain Carl Newhart, First Lieutenant Richard Apthorp, Second Lieutenant Carlton Miller, and President Donald MacGillivary.
On January 22,1948 a Certificate of Incorporation was issued to the Enfield Volunteer Fire Company Inc. Owen Rolfe, Spencer Wilkins, Harry Willis, Donald MacGillivary, Arland Crester and Jay Rumsey signed as Directors of the Fire Company.
February 1948 the first ham raffle was held to raise funds. The event was held at the Woodside Inn located at the intersection of Mecklenburg Road and Rothermich Road.
March 20,1948 the first ham supper was held at the Grange Hall in Enfield Center to also help raise funds.
April 1948 a pancake supper was held at the Grange Hall. It was voted to have each member bring a usable item to each meeting to be raffled off, the profits to go towards a building fund.
May 1948 the membership reached nearly 100 members. Harvey Stevenson was elected building chairman to oversee the construction of a 30 foot x 40 foot two story building to be located just south of the Enfield Grange Hall on a 60 foot x 100 foot piece of land donated by Harry and Gladys Willis.
June 15,1948 ground was broken for the new Fire House. The Town had just purchased a new power shovel, it was unloaded at the site and excavation was done with this new machine.
August 20,1948 cinder blocks were purchased to start the construction and Andy Palmer was appointed to supervise this part of the project.
December 20,1948 the election of officers and the first annual banquet were held at the Woodside Inn.
1949
January 1949 Wesley Rolfe resigned as Treasurer due to a work conflict.
February 29,1949 the new Fire House were complete enough to have the first meeting there.
April 4,1949 it was approved to order a 1948 Chevrolet/American LaFrance fire truck with a 500 gallon per minute pump and 500 gallon water tank.
May 1949 the location of 3 fire phones was discussed so residents could report a fire. The first primary location was Newhart's Store. The first fire training was held with 20 members attending.
June 11,1949 a " Stag Party " was held, it was said to have drawn a very large crowd.
July 1,1949 the first contract talks with the Town for Fire Protection were held. The amount discussed is unclear. The new fire truck was delivered at a cost of $7,330.00. A loan was taken out from the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Spencer with 30 members signing the note.
July 5,1949 the new fire truck was driven in its first parade, part of the first Old Home Days held in the school yard in Enfield Center.
July 1949 the Chief assigned 8 drivers to the new fire truck. Talks of having a slot machine to help raise funds was voted down 17 to 16. A plan to have every resident in town pay 25 cents per week for 2 years to help pay off the loan on the new fire truck were discussed.
August 1949 there was talk of having a second " Stag Party " at the rifle range. The State Park donated the flagpole from the C.C. Camp to the Fire Company to be erected in front of the firehouse.
October 31,1949 the new fire truck responded to its first fire at Bostwick Corners.
November 1949 an oil furnace was installed in the firehouse to replace the wood/coal stove.
1950
April 1950 a used one half horsepower fire siren was purchased from the Mecklenburg Fire Company
May 1950 there was talk of purchasing a pinball machine and television set to help stimulate a larger membership, however this never appeared to happen. It was also discussed whether to respond to all grass fires or just the large ones.
July 1950 the Town donated two Indian water tanks to the Fire Company for fighting grass fires.
September 1950 a bulletin from the State recommending that Fire Companies lock all firehouses and equipment be checked on a regular basis for sabotage. A barn dance was held at Hayward's Barn.
1951
January 1951 there was discussion with the Town about building a pond in case the creek went dry. No decision was made.
March 1951 a joint scrap drive with the Enfield Grange was held to raise funds. It was also decided that the Fire Company would sponsor Boy Scout Troop 50.
April 1951 a discussion was held to ask the Town to raise the tax rate 50 cents per thousand.
An alarm circuit was installed from Newhart's Store to the Fire House this enabled the siren to be activated from the store.
October 1951 a new battery was purchased for the fire truck. The truck was not being used enough to keep the battery charged.
1952
March 1952 two gas masks and 4 raincoats were purchased. The first parade uniforms were purchased.
May 31 1952 house fire 196 South Applegate Rd. This location would later be the site of many fires.
August 1952 the first known hose competition team was organized and placed 2nd in the ladder climb at the Tompkins County Fair.
1953
January 1953 the first water tanker was purchased an old Brockway fuel truck.
May 25 1953 Barn at the Hoffman farm on Bostwick Rd near Applegate Rd burns to the ground. This would later be part of a nationwide investigation involving Virginia Hoffman Rearden.
On April 8,1953 Nellie Knapp 71 year old died in a house fire on Mecklenburg Road just east of Georgia Road.
June 26,1953 the first carnival was held with a profit of $1,352.00
July 30,1953 the Ladies Auxiliary was formed.
October 1953 the Insurance Underwriters required that 10 men respond to calls within 10 minutes.
1954
January 1954 a 5 horsepower siren was purchased for $496.00
October 1954 talks began on a civil defense radio system. The Federal Civil Defense Department saw a need to set up a radio communications system in the event of a national disaster.
1955
January 1955 a two-year contract was signed with the Town for $1,467.00. Lyman Warren resigned as Assistant Chief.
May 1955 a new rule that trucks going and returning from parades must not exceed 45 miles per hour.
October 1955 the kitchen was moved from downstairs to upstairs. The civil defense radio and siren tests were held every Saturday at noon and Wednesdays at 7:15 PM. This required someone to be at the Fire House.
December 1955 a used ladder truck was purchased from Ithaca #9 Fire Station for $300.00. A 1947 Dodge water tanker was purchased to replace the Brockway water tanker.
1957
February 1957 an addition to the back of the Fire House was approved at a cost of $5,000.00
This would add 2 truck bays plus hall area upstairs.
October 1957 the ladder truck was sold to Kauf Brothers for $185.00
1958
January 1958 a two year contract was signed with the Town for $1,750.00
April 1958 a used 1000 gallon water tank was purchased from the Seneca Army Depot for $10.00
July 1958 a new Ford F-700 chassis for the 1000 water tank was purchased for $3,314.00
August 1958 a well was drilled behind the Fire House by Lee Snow Well Drilling. He found water at 67 feet at the rate of 30 gallons per minute. Septic system was also installed.
1959
January 1959 a 50 cent fine was to be levied on any member who left the fire scene without an officer’s approval.
March 1959 a $2.00 fine was to be levied on any member for disorderly conduct. Norm Snyder resigned as President,
July 1959 an old school bus was purchased for transporting firemen and auxiliary members to parades.
August 1959 Jake Smithers resigned as a member of the Board of Directors.
1960
January 1960 the contract with the Town for fire protection was $2,300.00. The first signs of interest in the medical field begin as a first aid course was held and a breathing resuscitator was purchased. It was also approved to purchase a 500 gallon per minute front mount pump for the 1959 Ford water tanker.
May 1960 a lease was obtained on land owned by Helena Schaber at the corner of Route 79 and Route 327. The land is to be used to hold the annual Carnival. It was also discussed the possibility of obtaining an option to buy the land.
June 1960 the first kiddie’s parade was held at the annual carnival.
July 1960 it was approved after a long discussion that in the future the fireworks company workers would only be entitled to 5 dozen clams and 10 cans of beer. Orville Rumsey will build an electric power shed on the carnival grounds.
December 1960 it was decided to use ballots at elections and to file same.
1961
July 1961 the Enfield firemen ran the clam concession at the McLean Firemen’s Carnival. Permission was received from the Baptist Church to put up the siren on their property across the road from the Fire House. It was approved to purchase 200 feet of 2.5 inch hose every year. Only firemen in parade uniforms will be allowed to ride the bus during the parades.
August 1961 an alarm system was installed in the Fire House. The system was a charged freon heat detection system that activated a freon horn outside the building. It was approved to purchase 6 pair of sneakers for the Enfield "Nozzleknockers" Hose team.
November 1961 four raincoats were purchased at $8.40 each.
1962
January 1962 the fire protection contract with the Town was for $3,000.00
September 1962 a new 1963 Ford F-750 chassis was purchased for $3,989.00. Vern Naragon was to install a used fuel tank purchased from G.L.F. on the chassis.
December 31 1962 two houses burned to the ground as blizzard conditions made roads nearly impassable. At 10:45AM the Sloan residence on Tucker Rd was destroyed and at 6:45PM a house in the 500 block of East Enfield Center Rd. burned to the ground
1963
April 1963 the Fire Company was to help the highway department put up new town road name signs.
September 1963 the parade bus was put up for sale. New blacktop was installed in front of the Fire House at a cost of $350.00.
1964
February 1964 the first portable walkie-talkie radios were purchased.
September 1964 the Dodge water tanker was sold to the Speedsville Fire Department for $300.00.
October 1964 a Dodge pickup truck was purchased for $1,995.00 to be used for grass fires and other odd jobs.
November 1964 there was a major barn fire at Alfred Eddy's on Bostwick Road. The Fire Company was on the scene for 2 days.
1965
April 1965 two Scott air packs were purchased to help firemen breathe in smoky fires.
June 1965 discussions on purchasing the carnival grounds but no action taken.
November 1965 it was decided to hold a dance every 2 months for firemen and their families. This was to help stimulate the membership in becoming more active.
1966
January 1966 the first set of mechanics wrenches and sockets were purchased so members could do maintenance on the fire trucks.
1967
January 1967 the fire contract for fire protection with the Town increased to $3,400.00
February 1967 the Newfield Fire Company was discussing the idea of putting a sub-station in Trumbulls Corners with the help of the Enfield Fire Company.
March 12 1967 an early morning fire leveled the house located on the Hoffman farm on Bostwick Rd. This fire was also part of a nationwide investigation involving Virginia Hoffman Rearden
June 1967 after a very lengthy discussion and noting financial problems, the membership voted in the late hours of the night to purchase a new 1967 Ford/Ward LaFrance fire truck. The truck was to be equipped with a 750 gallon per minute pump and a 750 gallon water tank for a cost of $15,000.00
December 1967 the Town of Ithaca approached the Enfield Fire Company to talk of the possibility of covering part of their town.
December 26,1967 the new Ford/Ward LaFrance was delivered.
1968
January 1968 the fire protection contract with the Town was for 3 years at $4,000.00 per year.
January 18,1968 the new Ford/Ward LaFrance responded to its first call at Dave Gunning's house on Harvey Hill Road. The house was a total loss.
April 1968 the Chief reports that there are way too many grass fires.
May 1968 a second fire siren is installed on John Smith's barn on South Applegate Road to better cover the town.
October 1968 talks began on purchasing land on Mecklenburg Road for a new fire station the exact location is unclear.
December 1968 Babcock Poultry talks of donating land on the north end of Sage Road to the Fire Company for the purpose of constructing a sub-station.
1969
January 1969 the idea of constructing a sub-station on Sage Road is voted down due the high costs.
February 1969 a direct phone line was installed to the Ithaca Central Fire Station to answer fire calls in case Enfield's fire phone to Newhart's was out. With this phone line Ithaca could also activate the fire siren in Enfield.
1970
January 1970 it was decided to install a backup fire phone line in Gregg's Store at Miller's Corners, but problems arose with the line. It was then decided to put the phone in Marion Lovelace's residence at the corner of Route 327 and Fish Road.
September 1 1970 a barn located on the James Linton farm on the East Enfield Center Rd. burns
September 1970 Richard Holley resigns as President.
1971
January 1971 the fire protection contract with the Town was raised to $5,950.00
March 3 1971 roads were just barely passable, after a major winter snow storm, when a fire destroyed a barn at 68 Weatherby Rd. owned by Donald Gunning. A number of livestock also perished in the blaze, the cause was undetermined.
May 1971 an addition was constructed on the south side of the existing Fire House. The addition was 24 feet wide x 60 feet long with one 12 foot overhead door. Charles Hubbell Construction did the work at a cost of $12,114.00
October 22 1971 fire completely destroyed a barn owned by Claire Updike on Waterburg Rd.
November 1971 Harold Clark resigned as President.
1972
January 16 1972 a body repair shop on Mecklenburg Rd. owned by Vernon Naragon was totally destroyed by fire.
February 1972 it was approved to purchase 15 tone alert fire monitors as the County had gone to a radio alert system. The County Fire Control Center was now answering all calls and dispatching them to the proper fire departments.
June 1972 manpower and equipment were sent to the Elmira-Corning area to help flood victims after flood waters had devastated the area.
1973
January 1973 two-way radios were purchased for the Chief and Assistant Chiefs linking them to the new County system.
June 1973 after costly repairs to firemen's lawn mowers, the Fire Company decides to purchase a Kubota tractor and mower for $2,100.00 to mow the carnival grounds.
October 10 1973 B&S Motorcycle located at 196 South Applegate Rd. was partially destroyed by fire.
September 1973 the first radio transmitted automatic fire alarm system was installed in the Enfield School. These alarms were sent directly to County Fire Control via radio.
November 1973 the fire protection contract with the Town was signed for $8,200.00 to cover 1974. Talks between the Town Board and the Fire Company were becoming increasingly difficult.
1974
April 30 1974 for the second time in less than 7 months a fire at B&S Motorcycle, 196 South Applegate Rd. completely destroys the business.
July 1974 the idea of going to a Fire District was discussed.
November 1974 a two-year fire protection contract was signed with the Town for $12,500.00 per year.
1975
April 3 1975 high winds and snow hampered efforts to control a fire at the George Holmes residence on Iradell Rd.
April 26 1975 a trash fire quickly spread to a house located in the 200 block of Hines Rd. completely gutting the structure.
May 1975 Woodside Inn at the corner of Route 79 and Rothermich Road burns to the ground during the early morning hours.
May 7 1975 Fire totally engulfs a barn owned by Robert Bock on Rockwell Rd. This was the 4th major fire in 2 months
June 1975 delivery was taken on a new 1975 Ford/Saulsbury pumper tanker. The truck was built in Tully N.Y. by Saulsbury Fire Apparatus and equipped with a 750 gallon per minute front mount pump and 1250 gallon water tank at a cost of $29,100.00
July 1975 the 1959 Ford water tanker was sold to the Fillmore Fire Department in western New York for $3,000.00
1976
January 1976 Dominic Seamon was injured in a single vehicle accident with the 1967 Ford/Ward LaFrance pumper while en-route to a house fire at the intersection of Waterburg Road and Iradell Road. The accident occurred as he turned from Halseyville Road onto Iradell Road when he lost control due to road conditions, went into a deep ditch and struck the end of a culvert pipe. Dominic was hospitalized for several weeks and spent the remainder of the year recuperating from his injuries. The truck sustained heavy damage and was out of service for several months but was repaired.
1977
January 1977 a new water tank and pump was approved to upgrade the 1963 Ford water tanker. The work to be done by Saulsbury Fire Apparatus of Tully N.Y.
February 19 1977 A house owned by Frank Gardener on Aiken Rd was completely engulfed in fire when firefighters arrived. Pieces of flying asbestos siding were mistaken for live rounds of ammunition hampering firefighting efforts.
April 16 1977 a house fire at the Andrew Herkovic residence on Rothermich Rd. was quickly brought under control. Fire Chief Jeff Brainard pulled on the scene to find fire blowing out the front windows and doors of the home. He orchestrated a perfect blitz attack bringing the fire quickly under control.
In May 1977 Merton Inman resigns as treasurer
September 1977 six members enrolled at Tompkins - Cortland Community College for the Emergency Medical Technicians course.
1978
January 2 1978 for the second time in two years the Rought family is burned out of their home at the intersection of Iradell Rd and Waterburg Rd.
April 28 1978 A house owned by Thomas Hoffman brother of Virginia Hoffman Rearden located on Enfield Main Rd in Enfield Center is completely gutted by fire. The blaze is listed as suspicious.
June 1978 membership approved to purchase a new 1978 Chevrolet Mini-Pumper from Saulsbury Fire Apparatus. The truck was purchased totally from funds raised by the membership.
June 18 1978 The Fire Company is once again called to the gutted remains of the Hoffman residence on Enfield Main Rd. the fire takes two hours to extinguish and in labeled suspicious. The Fire Company was called back twice that day for rekindles all of suspicious origin. Finally in the best interest of safety due to the proximity of structure to the roadway and its condition the structure was allowed to burn to the ground.
August 1978 a Rescue Squad was organized. This squad was to respond on all medical calls in Enfield where an ambulance was dispatched. Larry Stilwell was appointed as the Rescue Captain.
September 22 1978 A one-car motor vehicle accident claimed the life of an Enfield teenager. Steven French age 18 was killed when the car he was driving struck a tree on Trumbulls Corners Rd. and burst into flames, burning the teenager beyond recognition. This was the second fire related fatality in Enfield history. French was the brother in law of Enfield fire-fighter and future Chief Dennis Hubbell.
1979
January 4 1979 the Ramson Royce residence at 330 Enfield Main Rd. is completely gutted by fire.
January 6 1979 fire guts the Beadsley residence on N. VanDorn Rd.
January 18 1979 firefighters are hampered by high winds and sub freezing temperatures as fire rips through the George Head residence at 219 S. VanDorn Rd. This is the third major fire to strike in less than a month.
March 1979 the Fire Company gave its approval for support of the newly organized Hose Team to compete on the full schedule of the Central New York Hose Team Captains Association. Team members were Greg Kirchgessner, Jeff Brainard, Denny Hubbell, Charles (Ed) Simmons, Carl Hubbell and Wayne Snyder. The team used the traditional nickname "Nozzleknockers"
March 1979 new Mini-Pumper is delivered.
August 1979 approval was given for reconstruction of the 1965 Dodge pickup truck into a competition truck for the Hose Team. Work to be done by Carl Hubbell.
1980
January 1980 the first Fire Investigation Team was`organized with George Palmer serving as Captain. The Hose Team also received the Sportsmanship Award for 1979 from the Central New York Hose Team Captains Association.
December 1980 the Fire Investigation Team received a $500.00 grant from the Factory Mutual Insurance Company.
1981
October of 1981 the Fire House was dedicated in memory of the late Harry Willis, a long time Enfield firemen and supporter.
October 25 1981 high winds make firefighting difficult as fire levels the Roger Hubbard residence on Connecticut Hill Rd.
December 1981 a two-year fire protection contract with the Town was signed for $28,100.00 per year.
1982
February 1982 an army surplus jeep was purchased from the Lansing Fire Department. It was to be converted into a brush and grass firefighting vehicle.
Although they did not receive it, the Enfield Rescue Squad was nominated for Rescue Squad of the month for saving a mans life who was involved in a motor vehicle accident on the Mecklenburg Rd. December 31,1981.
June 1982 there was talk of building a new Fire Station at the corner of Route 79 and Route 327 on what was know as the carnival grounds.
July 1982 an alternate site for the new Fire Station must be found as the Route 79/Route 327 site could not be purchased.
September 1982 the "Nozzleknockers" Hose Team clinched the 1982 Central New York Hose Team Captains Association overall point championship.
October 4,1982 seven acres of land was purchased behind the Fire House from Gladys Willis for the site of the new Fire Station.
1983
February 1983 the 1963 Ford chassis was approved to be replaced with a new 1983 Ford F-800 chassis. Halpin Fire Apparatus of Elmira, New York will do the work removing the tanker body from the old chassis and placing it on the new one.
May 21 1983 two ultra light airplanes collide over Enfield Center Rd near Enfield Main Rd. sending both plummeting to the ground. One landed in a large willow tree saving the pilot from any fatal injuries the other struck the ground killing the pilot.
June 16 1983 a violent thunderstorm moved through a very narrow area dumping over 3 and a half inches of rain. Lightning struck a barn at the Everhart farm on Connecticut Hill Rd. completely destroying the structure. The rain was so heavy that it had almost extinguished what remained of the barn. Response was hampered by the near zero visibility due to the rain.
August 1983 construction of a pond behind the Fire House was approved. Robert "Bob" Holley will do the work.
September 1983 the Hose Team tied the Odessa Hose Team for overall points championship for 1983.
A $49,000.00 budget was proposed, the Town Board felt this to be too high and asked that it be reduced.
October 1983 the Fire Company reduced its budget request to $41,000.00. The Town Board still felt this was high and asked for a further reduction.
November 1983 the Fire Company pleaded with the Town Board to approve the $41,000.00 request as this was what the Fire Company felt it needed to keep the operation running. After some heated discussions the Town Board adopted a budget figure of $36,400.00. The Fire Company refused to sign the 1984 contact for that amount. The news media went wild with headlines "Enfield without fire protection for 1984" even the television stations in Syracuse began covering the story.
December 1983 the budget was still at an impasse, with neither side willing to budge. State and County officials along with lawyers from both sides were called in to try and settle the impasse while Chief Denny Hubbell and President Dominic Seamon prepared for the worst.
In the final days of December after numerous meetings the Town Board and Fire Company came to an agreement, $36,400.00 for 1984 with the remaining $5,000.00 to be paid in 1985 and 1986.
1984
April of 1984 the Town Board started proceedings to go to a Fire District in light of the problems that arose with negotiations for the 1984 fire protection contract.
July of 1984 a used 1974 bus was purchased from Cornell University for parade use. The money to purchase the bus came from fundraising events.
September of 1984 the Hose Team clinched the Central New York Hose Team Captains Association title for the third straight year and was presented the four foot trophy for permanent possession.
1985
January of 1985 the fire protection contract was for $54,700.00.
February of 1985 the 1975 Ford tanker was sold to the Wayne Fire Department in Wayne, N.Y. for $30,000.00. That was $900.00 more than was paid for it.
April 1985 the first diesel powered fire apparatus in Enfield was purchased. A 1985 Ford F-8000 tanker to be built by Saulsbury Fire Apparatus of Tully, N.Y. for $73,000.00
August 1985 plans were approved to hook up a fire hydrant to the pond. The work to be done by Carpenter's Excavators of Enfield.
It was approved to build a 30' x 40' storage building for $7,350.00. Agway Buildings to do the work with the funds coming from the fundraising activities.
November of 1985 the refurbished 1967 American LaFrance Pumper was put into service. The truck was purchased used from the Saulsbury Fire Apparatus for $13,000.00 and totally refurbished by the membership. The truck replaced the 1948 Chevrolet Pumper and was the only truck at the time that was found to fit into the eight foot high doors.
1986
January of 1986 the fire protection contract was for $63,725.00.
February 10 1986 a fire in the attic at 196 S. Applegate Rd. is labeled as suspicious. The address has seen many fires over the years.
June 1986 the first computer was purchased to keep track of the Fire Company records by the Board of Directors. It was an IBM and purchased on State contract.
August 1986 after 30 years of stag banquets, it was decided to allow wives and girlfriends to attend. It was also decided to combine the banquet with the Christmas party.
September 15 1986 a major fire at Willowood Campsites totally destroys the recreation hall. The entire building was totally engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived. The cause was listed as a faulty fireplace chimney.
October 1986 it was recommended to the Town Board, by the Fire Company Board of Directors, that they drop the Fire District plan as no action had been taken in over a year.
October 1986 an Explorer Post was started for young teenagers wanting to get involved with the fire service.
1987
January 6 1987 a spectacular daytime fire sent clouds of billowing black smoke that could be seen for miles as a home owned by Lester Saunders on Rockwell Rd. burned to the ground. The entire structure flashed over shortly after the first fire apparatus arrived sending flames shooting out of every window. The cause was determined to be a faulty chimney.
February 10 1987 exactly one year to the day fire totally guts the upstairs of a home at 196 S. Applegate Rd. The cause was undetermined and listed as suspicious.
May 1987 the Fire Company Board of Directors asked the Town Board for a decision on funding for a new Fire Station.
June 1987, lacking a decision on funding for a new Fire Station by the Town Board, it was decided by the membership to try to secure funds on the Company's own merit.
June 1987 fourteen-year-old Kristina Markowski was killed while walking with friends on Route 79 after leaving the Enfield Firemens Field Days late at night. Alleged drunk driver Richard Barber of Danby struck her and two friends, Dierdre Stevenson and Yvonne Howell. He supposedly had been drinking at the beer tent on the carnival grounds.
July of 1987 discussions were held concerning discontinuing the sale of beer at the carnival or to discontinue the carnival altogether.
The first hydraulic powered extrication tools were purchased.
August of 1987 the Fire Company was sued for its possible involvement with the fatal accident in June during the carnival. A settlement was later reached out of court.
November of 1987 funds for a new Fire Station were included in the 1988 budget. The estimated cost $325,000.00. The firemen will donate money from their fundraising account plus provide labor to finish the interior of the building reducing the cost by $100,000.00 leaving a balance of $225,000.00 to be financed.
November 8 1987 a barn fire of Halseyville Rd owned by Harold Laue kept firefighters busy for 7 hours. The barn was fully involved before the first apparatus arrived. The first decision was to let the fire burn seeing there was nothing left, however someone notified the Sheriffs Department that at times drifters were know to sleep in the barn. The fire had to be extinguished to look for possible remains, which involved handling hundreds of bales of hay. No remains were found.
December of 1987 a contract was signed with Morton Buildings Inc. of Homer, N.Y. to construct the new Fire Station.
December of 1987 a vote was taken as to whether to continue the carnival and beer concession. The results were 21 yes and 8 no.
1988
January 1988 the contract for fire protection was $74,000.00
February of 1988 an ambulance was purchased from the Trumansburg Fire Department to be used as a rescue vehicle at a cost of $7,000.00
March 19 1988 an early morning barn fire on S. Buck Hill Rd owned by Earl Miller lit up the night sky. The fire could be seen from three counties.
June of 1988 the Fire Company moved into the new Fire Station although there was inside work still to be done.
September of 1988 the old Fire House was turned over to the Town to be used for a community building.
1989
January of 1989 the fire protection contract with the Town was for $97,131.00
March of 1989 a well was drilled at the carnival grounds to aid in Health Department regulations.
April of 1989 Chief Dennis Hubbell received the Tompkins County Firemen of the Year award for his dedication to the fire service.
May of 1989 1200 feet of 5 inch large diameter supply hose was purchased the first hose of this size in Enfield.
September of 1989 a contract was signed for 2 1990 Ford/FMC pumpers to be purchased from FMC Corporation of Florida at the cost $110,000.00 each.
1990
January of 1990 the fire protection contract with the Town was $129,330.00
March 19 1990 an early morning house fire completely destroyed the Jack Rumsey residence at 170 Harvey Hill Rd. A faulty chimney pipe was listed as the cause.
June of 1990 the new FMC pumpers were delivered just in time to put in the Enfield Firemen’s Carnival parade
July of 1990 discussions of the many problems associated with the carnival were held. Insurance liability, lack of help, cost of security and the very small profit margin were a few of the issues raised. The matter was tabled until the September general meeting.
September of 1990 it was voted to discontinue having the carnival.
November 16 1990 a late afternoon fire leveled a home at 467 Trumbulls Corners Rd. owned by George Brooks. Due to the home being located a distance off the roadway the fire went unnoticed for quite some time.
1991
January of 1991 the fire protection contract with the Town was now up to $155,040.00 due in part to the lack of revenue from the carnival.
April of 1991 different types of fund-raisers were considered to replace the carnival. A car show was thought to be a good possibility.
May of 1991 the Fire Company becomes more health cautious and banned smoking during any general meeting.
August of 1991 the first annual "Cruise to the Country" car show was held.
December of 1991 Dominic Seamon decided not to run for re-election for President after 17 years in that position, the longest in Company history.
1992
January of 1992 the fire protection contract was cut by $15,000.00 to $140,040.00. The Ladies Auxiliary purchased a cellular telephone for the firemen to carry in one of the trucks.
April of 1992 the 1978 Chevrolet Mini-Pumper was sold to the McGraw Fire Department for $12,500.00.
The Fire Company donates $1,000.00 from its fundraising account to the Counties new computer aided dispatch system.
May of 1992 a used 1978 Ford/Saulsbury heavy rescue vehicle was purchased from the LakeShore Fire Department in Rochester N.Y. The truck to be totally refurbished by Saulsbury Fire Apparatus.
June of 1992 the first Air Bag Rescue System was purchased.
September of 1992 the pond dike began leaking due to the muskrat population. The pond dike was totally rebuilt by Austic Excavation of Trumansburg N.Y. The Town's Highway Department transported many loads of the necessary material to the pond site from Interlaken, N.Y.
December of 1992 Dennis Hubbell stepped down as Fire Chief after 13 consecutive years, the longest period anyone has held that position.
1993
January of 1993 the fire protection contract was $142,540.00
The Enfield Community Council donated $2,000.00 towards the repair of the pond dike, which they use in the summer for their swim program.
Approval was giving to purchase 11 new self-contained breathing apparatus units primarily due to the high exposure by firefighters to hazardous materials.
March of 1993 the first OSHA mandated physicals were given to all members,
A second set of hydraulic extrication tools were purchased.
April of 1993 three radios with the Town Highway frequency were purchased to put in to help communication with both parties.
Larry Stilwell was appointed the first Safety Officer.
The 1978 Ford/Saulsbury heavy rescue truck was dedicated in memory of longtime fire-fighter and past Chief Jake Smithers who passed away in 1992 after a long battle with cancer.
August of 1993 "Bungee" jumping was the main attraction at the 3rd annual car show.
A second computer was purchased to handle the over flow of paperwork.
October of 1993 a discussion on having another carnival was unanimously voted down.
1994
January of 1994 the fire protection contract was $144,809.00
January 7 1994 a fire at 344 Hines Rd completely guts a vacant residence the fire is labeled as suspicious. Three days later a fire levels a rental trailer at the same location the cause is undetermined but not believed to be suspicious. On May 23 1995 the only remaining rental trailer at this location is destroyed by fire, the cause is listed as a child playing with matches.
March 1994 purchased used 4 wheel drive Kubota tractor and mower from Locke Enterprises
March 1994 purchased 15 PASS alarms for interior firefighters.
April 1994 installed 10-inch dump valve on Town of Enfield Highway Department's water truck to be used as back up water hauler if needed.
May 1994 purchased first fax machine.
June 1994 purchased used 1990 Chevrolet Suburban for $14,900.00 to be converted into a quick response light Rescue vehicle.
July 1994 signed a contract with the State Department of Transportation's Adopt-a-Highway program to clean the roadside of Route 327 four times a year from Route 79 to Trumbulls Corners Rd.
October 1994 donated $400.00 to the Enfield School Christmas fund for low-income families.
December 1994 Tompkins County approves to implement an Enhanced 911 system.
Sold the old 1978 Chevrolet Rescue to the Pittsford Vol.Fire Co. of Pittsford, Pennsylvania for $4000.00
December 1994 first Annual Banquet dinner was held at the new Fire Station.
1995
Fire Protection contract for 1995 was $149,153.00
February 1995 approved the purchase of a new 1996 Freightliner 3000 gallon tanker. Saulsbury Fire Apparatus of Tully, N.Y., will construct the truck at a cost of $186,000.00.
March 1995 sold 1983 Ford/Saulsbury Tanker to the Speedsville Fire Department for $30,000.00
June 1995 approved to build an addition on the Fire Station. This space to include a washbay for the apparatus, decontamination facilities, shower area, physical fitness area and storage space. The cost to erect the shell $27,480.00 which will be done by Morton Buildings of Homer, N.Y.
The inside will be finished by the membership, as money becomes available.
September 1995 the Town of Enfield Highway Dept. will assist in sealing the blacktop in front of the Fire Station. Cost of the materials $600.00.
By a very narrow margin Town Supervisor Jean Owens is beat out by newcomer William Mather.
This was sure to be a big problem for the Fire Company as Mr. Mather was pretty much anti Fire Company.
November 25 1995 a huge fireball which could be seen for miles totally levels a home owned by Donald Gunning at 68 Weatherby Rd. Even though there was nothing left of the home the cause was believed to be a faulty chimney pipe connection. This was the second major fire at this location the first destroyed the barn in 1971.
1996
Fire Protection contract for 1996 was` $155,744.00
January 1996 Town Supervisor questions "credibility" of the Fire Company in regards to all financial issues.
February 1996 Town Board members approve to assist the Fire Company in obtaining a low interest loan for the new tanker thru the State. The Supervisor feels that the loan application is not correct and that the Fire Company is trying to obtain additional funds that are not needed at the taxpayers expense. Even after a second request by the Town Board to submit the loan application, Supervisor holds the application till after the deadline date. This cost the taxpayer thousands of dollars in interest.
February 1996 the Supervisor is suspected of planning a "hostile" takeover of the Fire Company and the building, however his plan fails as Fire Company officials quickly draw the battlelines.
September 1996 wiring was completed to accommodate auxiliary power for the Fire Station in case of a power outage.
September 1996 the Supervisor new budget process has Fire Company suspicious as to his intentions. Three budget proposals are requested, one showing budget cuts, level spending and "pie in the sky". October 1996 the Supervisor uses "pie in the sky" budget as Fire Company's requested budget for 1997. This sends taxpayers into an uproar. The Supervisor claims Fire Company is trying to take advantage of the taxpayers in Enfield.
October 31 1996 explosions could be heard all over town as an early morning fire destroyed a house at 263 Black Oak Road. Large quantities of fireworks were found to be stored at the residence.
November 1996 concrete was poured in the washbay portion of the new addition. Grade work was done by the membership while Dave Poyer of Mecklenburg did the pouring and finishes work.
December 1996 despite many problems with the Town Supervisor the Fire Contract was signed with no increases.
December 1996 approval was giving to purchase $1000.00 worth of exercise equipment to help the fire department physical fitness program.
1997
Fire Protection contract was $155,744.00
June 1997 The membership agreed to once again hold a Carnival. The dates were the same as the past the only exception was the addition of another day making it a four-day event. It was also decided not to have alcoholic beverages.
October 21,1997 a fire at 110 N. VanDorn Rd. which started out as a vehicle fire, quickly spread to a combination hay storage and maintenance shop. The building sustained heavy structural damage.
September 1997 it was decided to disband the Explorer post and start a Junior Firefighters program. This would give the Fire Company more control over the group.
November 1997 The first known blood drive was held at the Fire Station
1998
Fire Protection contract was $161,761.00
The Fire Company gears up to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
February 4 1998 Fire Captain Greg Kirchgessner was struck and killed by a hit and run driver on route 79 while riding his bicycle to work. Fellow firefighters tried in vain to save their brother firefighter’s life. Greg had just completed his 20th year as an Enfield Fire-fighter, unfortunately he never got to receive his 20-year service award.
May 1998 an open house was held to celebrate 50 years of service. The service included the rededication of the Harry Willis memorial plaque placed in the new memorial garden located on the hill behind the Fire Station. It also saw the dedication of the light rescue vehicle in memory of deceased member Greg Kirchgessner.
June 1998 fundraising efforts were once again attempted by holding a Carnival. Even though weather was good, attendance was way down. Later in the year it was decided to discontinue the Carnival as a fundraiser.
August 4,1998 the Fire Company lost another active member, Fire-fighter George
Palmer died unexpectedly of a heart attack.
December 1998 a very emotional annual banquet was held to close the 50th anniversary year and to put behind us a very tragic year. Marnie, Gretchen and Amanda Kirchgessner, family of deceased member Greg, were present to accept his 20-year life membership plaque.
December 1998 a carbon dioxide tank located at Genex Corporation ruptured while being filled trapping the truck driver in a pool of the freezing liquid.
December 26,1998 fire destroyed the home of Enfield Firefighter’s Art and Sue Howser at 17 South VanDorn Rd. The cause was determined to be electrical in nature.
1999
Fire Protection contract was $166,000.00
January 1,1999 the first structure fire of the year occurred on Teeter Rd. Fire was contained to one room and the roof area.
January 29,1999 House fire 255 Iradell Rd.
March 14,1999 Fire was contained to one room of a reported mobile home fire
April 6,1999 units were dispatched to a fully involved house fire at the Traver residence at 300 Iradell Rd. around 11 AM. High winds hampered any efforts to extinguish the blaze. The home was nearly burned to the ground by the time Fire units arrived. There was no one home at the time and the fire burned out of control until being noticed by a Sheriff’s department patrol car 2 miles away. Just as Fire units were returning a call was received for a garage fire at the intersection of Mecklenburg and VanDorn Rd. Responding units found a garage and part of a mobile home on fire.
April 14,1999 A report of a unknown type structure fire at 386 Enfield Main Rd. destroys one vacant mobile home and damages another. The mobile homes were being used for storage.
November 1999 it was decided to discontinue the Car Show. The uncertainty of the ownership of the property at Route 79 and 327 was a determining factor in the decision.
November 1999 The membership approved to enter into a 2-year contract with Municipal Marketing to solicit funds by mail. The money would be used to purchase a Thermal Imaging Camera.
2000
Budget for 2000 was $174,044.00
January 2000 the 1968 Jeep Brush truck was sold to Isabella Fire Department, Brownsville Township, Pennsylvania
January 2000 it was learned that the land we had leased for years at Route 79 and 327 had been willed to Yvonne Vandermark after the death of landowner Helena Schaber.
May 2000 A new Rescue/Pumper was ordered from American LaFrance, a subsidiary of Freightliner Trucks. R.D.Murrey Fire Apparatus in Hamburg, N.Y. will construct the apparatus body at a total cost of $425,000.00.
June 2000 Three grants were obtained, one for $9300.00 from Senator Kuhl’s office and $1000.00 from Tompkins County Trust Company for a 60kw stand by Station generator, and one for $8500.00 from Marty Luster’s office for turn out gear.
July 2000 it was decided to try a 12-month lottery calendar as a fundraiser.
September 2000 after a 10 year absence the siren was reactivated due to ongoing problems with the County’s radio and paging system.
September 2000 one of the 1990 FMC Pumpers was sold to the Mix District Volunteer Fire Co #7 in Connecticut to make room for the new Rescue/Pumper.
October 2000 the membership voted to look into the possibility of adding a banquet hall to the existing building.
October 2000 the Fire Company agreed to a 3 year contract with the Town.
December 2000 purchased a 2001 Ford F-350 pickup to replace the brush truck sold earlier this year.
2001
Fire Protection contract for 2001 was $193,159.00
February 9,2001 Life member and 42 year veteran fire-fighter Dominic Seamon passed away.
February 2001 the Fire Company took delivery of a new 2000 American LaFrance Rescue/Pumper.
April 2001 took delivery of a 2001 Well Cargo 20 foot enclosed trailer for use as a special operations unit.
October 2001 the membership voted to go ahead with a $180,000.00 capital improvement project which includes a new 48 foot by 60 foot hall area, a 8 foot addition to the apparatus room, additional office space, upgrades to drainage and resurfacing the blacktop.
December 2001 an award established in memory of George A. Palmer was given to fire-fighter Larry Lanning. Deceased members Jake Smithers, Greg Kirchgessner, and Dominic Seamon also will have their names placed on the plaque and memorial stone.
2002
Fire Protection Contract for 2002 was $203,366.00
February 2002 the Board of Directors approved to trade the Kubota tractor in for a newer model with a front end loader.
April 2002 a motor vehicle accident in the early morning hours on Mecklenburg road near the intersection of Buck Hill rd. claimed the life of 2 people. One vehicle was engulfed in flames on the arrival of the Fire Company which claimed one life the other person died before extrication could be completed.
May 2002 finances were secured for the new addition from M&T Bank.
July 8 2002 Morton Buildings began construction on the new addition.
Mecklenburg Road has claimed the lives of 5 people since December 2001. All fatalities have occurred in a 4 mile stretch between Applegate and Buck Hill roads.
September 2002 a tractor trailer tanker loaded with 6000 gallons of heating oil rolls over on its side on Mecklenburg Road near Buck Hill Road. Their were no injuries and leakage was very limited however Mecklenburg Road was closed for 5 hours for clean up and to upright the trailer.
October 2002 the 1978 Ford Heavy Rescue was sold to the Milton Fire Department in West Virginia for $15,000.00
December 13 2002 a fire at 60 Woodard Road completely destroyed the home of Kevin Reilly. The entire home was engulfed in flames when the first trucks arrived at the late morning fire.
December 2002 The annual banquet and Christmas party were held in the new banquet hall. Dennis Hubbell was awarded the George A. Palmer Achievement of Excellence award at the banquet.
2003
Fire protection contract for 2003 was $214,043.00
February 2003 Safe-Air completes installation of the new breathing air compressor. Funds were secured through a Federal Fire grant
March 2003 Fire company purchases new dress uniforms
July 2003 received matching grant from NYS Conservation Department for $1000.00 to purchase portable radios.
October 2003 Hot air balloon crash lands in some trees near the intersection of Hayts and Halseyville Roads. A crane truck was needed to lower the basket and its 4 occupants to the ground.
December 2003 Contract talks draw some public attention mostly due to fliers being distributed in town by unknown sources. All the information was false and distributed to cause anger within the town.
December 2003 Fire destroys Pat’s Auto Repair on N. VanDorns Rd. Garage was totally engulfed on arrival.
December 2003 Chief Greg Stevenson steps down after 5 years of service as Chief.
2004
Fire protection contract for 2004 was $222,604.00
February 2004 received our second Federal Fire Grant to replace and update all fitness equipment.
March 2004 Order placed with Motors Fleet in New Jersey for a 2004 F-250 Ford extended cab pickup to replace the current 1990 Chevrolet Suburban EMS vehicle.
April 2004 Deputy Chief Ray Hubbard resigns his position due to personal reasons. Past Chief George May appointed by the Board of Directors to fill the vacancy. Jim Whittaker was appointed to fill the vacant Board of Directors seat.
July 2004 received matching grant from NYS Conservation Department for $1000.00 for firefighting footware.
September 2004 Central air conditioning installed in the station by Sure-Temp Inc. out of Binghamton, NY.
2005
Fire Protection contract for 2005 $231,508.00
January 2005 New Ford F-250 EMS vehicle placed in service
January 2005 Old Chevrolet Suburban sold to Hester Covert for $2,2000.00
March 2005 Life member Gerald C. Hubbell passed away after a brief illness
March 2005 a rash of serious MVC within a two week period sends 11 people to the hospital. The first at the intersection of Mecklenburg and Podunk roads resulted in a total of 8 patients. One patient was flown out by Stat Med Evac. The second on Trumbulls Corners road between Porter Hill and Rumsey Hill roads ended with one female fatality and two patients sent to the hospital. The third occured on Enfield Main road just south of the Center two patients were flown out one by Stat Med Evac the other by Mercy Flight.
July 2005 Blacktopping project gets under way to resurface all aprons , parking areas and access driveway. Work to be completed by South Hill Construction from Burdett, NY at a cost of $54,000.00.
December 2005 Chief Greg Stilwell steps down as Chief after 2 years service.
2006
Fire Protection contract for 2006 $240,769.00
January 2006 Fire involving several attached structures at 185 Hines Road are destroyed. Mutual aid from Newfield, Trumansburg, Mecklenburg, Odessa and Ithaca.
May 2006 A early morning fire totally destroyed a garage at 146 South Applegate Rd. Mutual aid from Trumansburg and Mecklenburg
June 2006 heavy rains in the State cause extreme flooding in Broome County. Portable pumps and manpower sent from our department to assist.
September 2006 Contract is signed with KME Fire Apparatus in Pennsylvania for a new 2006 International 3000 gallon Tanker with a 750GPM pump for a purchase price of $290,000.00
October 2006 Fire Company and Town Board are at odds again over proposed fire contract.
November 2006 Fire Company has to retain a specialized fire service attorney to work threw the contract negotiations. Mark Butler from Harris Beach LLA has been hired.
December 2006 Mobile home fire at 195 Hines Road destroys the structure despite a very quick response. 4 dogs were killed in the fire. Structure fire at 407 Hayts Road guts one room and causes smoke damage to the rest of the structure.
Contract negotiations are extended until January 31 2007 as attorneys for both sides work on the wording and await audit report.
2007
January 2007 The Fire Company starts the year with no contact signed. The Town agrees to extend the 2006 contract until February 29th if needed.
February 2007 Contract negotiations are going very slow mostly due to wording issues and attorney time constraints.
March 2007 The town extends the contract for two weeks with no funding until the next official meeting of the Town Board.
March 2007 The Town Board proposes a $200,000.00 contract, $50,000.00 short of the $250,000.00 figure proposed by the Fire Company. The Fire Company counters with a level spending from 2006 of $240,769.00,Town Board refuses offer. Financially the Fire Company is in trouble and takes a stand, as does the Town essentially leaving the town without fire protection. Without fire protection Enfield School decides to bus all the kids to different schools in Ithaca. This sends the media wild including many television stations out of Syracuse. Channel 3 sends a crew to cover the Town Board meeting live. Over a hundred people show up to express their concerns and ask the Town and Fire Company to please work it out by midnight. Town Board and Fire Company go into executive session to negotiate. At 12:30 am after 4 hours of very intense discussions the Fire Company agrees to $230,000.00 with terms of the 2006 contract to say in place. The Town Board also agrees to start the process for the formation of a fire district.
June 2007 Sold the 1985 Ford/Saulsbury Tanker to the Windsor Volunteer Fire Co. Windsor , New York (Binghamton area) for $20,000.00
July 2007 New 2006 International/KME 3000 tanker delivered. Cost of the apparatus $288,000.00
August 2007 Fire Company and Town Board sit down with thier respective attorneys to try and begin contract negotiations. The meeting is very short and it is very apparent we will not come to terms soon.
September 2007 The Fire Company Board of Directors decide to wait until after town elections to begin contract negotiations in hopes of a more workable and understanding town board.
November 2007 Town election results reveal a completely new town board. The Fire Company is optimistic that this town board is capable of working out a 2008 fire contract.
December 2007 A fire at 1774 Mecklenburg Road results in heavy damage to the attic and second floor with water damage throughout. Fire appeared to have started in the attic near electric wiring. Mutual aid received from Trumansburg, Ithaca, Newfield and Mecklenburg.
2008
January 2008 The Fire Company and Town Board agree on a contract extension for up to 2 months. Unfortunatly the Fire Company and current Town Board have to live with the previous Town Board's budget figure of $230,000.00 a zero increase from last year and a shortfall of $26,000.00 for 2008.
January 2008 a fire at H&H Auto, 644 Enfield Falls Road does extensive damage to the building. The fire started in a vehicle that was up on a lift being repaired The fire quickly spread the building. Mutual aid received from Trumansburg, Ithaca and Newfield.
July 2008 The Fire Company purchases a John Deere Gator from the fundraising mailer. The Gator will be used for off road calls. There was also a donation received from Triad Foundation for the purchase of a trailer to haul it on.
October 2008 garage fire at 2790 Mecklenburg Road completely destroys the structure.
October 2008 mobile home fire 39 Enfield Main Road. Occupants had to exit threw windows because the fire had blocked their exit. Fire was confined to one end of the mobile home, however the home will be a total loss.
November 2008 plans are in place to start the formation of a fire district.
December 2008 house fire 826 Bostwick Road. Fire was confined to the attic with water and smoke damage throughtout.
December 2008 garage fire 149 Sage Road. Garage was a total loss, however a mobile home next to the garage was saved.
December 2008 Town Board passes a resolution to form a Fire District by January 15, 2009.
2009
January 2009 Budget is settled at $280,000.00
January 2009 Several town residents pass a petition to force the Fire District formation to a public referendum. The petition passers are the same group that created problems for the Fire Company for the last 3 years. Town Board agrees to forward the Fire Company $70,000.00 to start
March 2009 Town Board decides to put the Fire District formation on hold and proceed with a Fire Protection contract for 2009
On January 22,1998 the Enfield Volunteer Fire Company Incorporated celebrated its 50th anniversary. Things have come a long way in the first 50 years, the company has grown from 1 piece of fire apparatus to a fleet of seven. The 2 bay fire station with a meeting hall on the second floor is now just a predecessor to the very spacious new facility which has 8 apparatus bays, wash bay, repair bay, meeting room, kitchen, conference room, communication room, office area, bathroom and shower facilities, decontamination room, locker and physical fitness room. The new station was built due to the very small overhead doors and ceilings in the old station which could not accommodate the newer and much bigger apparatus.
Personal protective clothing which used to be as simple as a raincoat, rubber boots and gloves along with a safari type helmet is now a very sophisticated set of clothing. Fire retardant fabrics, moisture barriers, and liner systems now make up just the simplest fire coat. Helmets must meet very stringent impact standards to withstand any falling debris. All equipment must now meet strict OSHA. requirements and Standard Operating Procedures are required.
Record keeping has gone from a simple diary type entry with a list of members who attended to computer data entries with hundreds of codes to determine all the who, where, how, and whys imaginable. Early entries show address listings to be as simple as just the Tucker farm, back then everybody knew everybody and two homes may be all that encompassed a mile square block. Now without a specific house number you probably would not have a clue to where to even begin.
Membership over the years has been maintained at a very adequate level though being a volunteer in Enfield at times is not easy. On top of the many hours spent on training, work details, fire and rescue calls the membership must continue to obtain funding to keep the Fire Company in operation. Justification to the Town Board and taxpayers of funds needed to operate the company is a continuing battle and consumes many hours. Many of the Fire Company Board of Directors have been on the Board for years while Town Board members change almost every four years. This inconsistency in Town Board members means that every four years its like starting all over as far as justifying funds. This can be very frustrating to say the least, many Town Board meetings became very vocal and sometimes personal. Even with this major hurdle, Fire Company officials have been able to maintain adequate funding over the years. Most of the money is spent on preventive maintenance and preparing for emergencies. The Fire Company does not have the luxury of coming back later if something breaks or your members are not trained for the situation. We must be prepared the best we can to handle any situation and keep things in operation.
Fire apparatus has changed drastically over the years. Pumpers with 150 horsepower engines, 500 gallon per minute pumps and 500 gallon water tanks have been replaced by 450 horsepower diesel engines, 2000 gallon per minute pumps and 3000 gallon water tanks. Much of the new fire apparatus is either totally or at least partially controlled by computer technology.
Enfield has not been exempt from major fires over the years. The most frequent location to experience a major fire, 196 S. Applegate Rd. has had 2 Garage fires, two minor house fires, one fire that destroyed the home and one small barn fire. This over a period of 50 years has leveled everything that once stood on the lot, most has been rebuilt. Or how about 344 Hines Rd. where in just a little over a year a house and two rental trailers were destroyed. Other locations have had multiple fires over the years, both the original house and barn owned by Donald Gunning at 68 Weatherby Rd. have been destroyed. The Hoffman Farm on Bostwick Rd. near Applegate Rd. has also lost both the house and barn to fire. This location along with fires at the Hoffman home located on Enfield Main Rd were part of a nationwide insurance fraud investigation involving Virginia Hoffman. She was never prosecuted for any involvement in the Enfield fires, although it was speculated she had something to do with the Bostwick Rd. fires. But on March 2,1992 Virginia Hoffman Rearden was found guilty of 1st degree murder, conspiracy, insurance fraud, and forgery in the state of California. Her history and criminal record can be read in a book entitled “DEATH BENEFIT” by David Heilbroner.
Early records show that the Fire Company responded to mostly grass and barn fires, most of the barn fire causes were listed as lightning strikes. In the late 70's the return in popularity of wood burning stoves caused many chimney and house fires. Many problems could be contributed to the lack of proper education on wood burning stoves. During this period the emergency medical field became very popular with rural companies, many Fire Companies including Enfield started first response Rescue Squads.
So what lies ahead for the next 50 years? Well, there is a good chance that most of us will not be around to celebrate the 100th anniversary but more changes are sure to happen over the next 50 years. Equipment and apparatus are sure to continue to improve, this would be no surprise to anyone, but the big change we foresee is the staffing. Volunteers are becoming a dying breed, the time needed to become a volunteer fire-fighter and then maintain the training is more than most people want to give. Getting up in the middle of the night to respond to calls then go to your regular job, and then attend fire or rescue training in the evening is really pushing each individual. We believe you will first see paid fire officials maybe just to cover daytime calls and keep the paperwork in line, many Fire Companies are already doing this. This will be followed by either paid fire fighters or paid on call personnel. Emergency medical assistance will continue to increase as the population of the town increases. Fires will continue to be part of the job, but with the continuing emphasis on environmental issues hazardous material spills and containment will be on the increase.
Technology will test the budgets of many Fire Companies as advancements into the 21st Century will surely take us beyond your wildest dreams. Computer advancements will continue to play a part in new innovations.
Enfield Fire Company officials have always had the ability to look into the future, whether it be for the purchase of new equipment or just the needs of its volunteers. This type of planning should keep the Fire Company out in front as one of the most advanced Fire Companies in the County. Anything less would be an insult to its ancestors as the ground work laid in 1948 continues to play a part in present and future operations.
|
