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A
COMPLETE HISTOEY
OF THE
BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT,
IN(:i,liniN(i
THE FIRE-ALARM SERVICE AND THE PROTECTIVE
DEPARTMENT,
From 1030 to 1S88.
ARRANGED IN THREE PARTS.
PART ONE.
Fires, and LawB coueermng their T'rpv'ciiUoD ; Fire Appariitus iind Members of Companies from the
Settlement of the Towt) to the G-ranting of the City Charter in 1S22.
PAKT TWO.
The Reorfjaniziitiou of the Department from a Volunteer to a Paid Force; Fire Records; Building
haws; Engine Companies and their Officers, up to 1873.
PART THREE.
A Complete Record from the Appointment of the Board of Fire Commissioners, in 1874, to
December 31, 1888, including the Fire Record; to which is added a Roster of (.Jompanies since
1874, the Permanent Membeis, with a Portrait and Biographical Sketch of each,
including the Ex-Chief Engineers and Fire Commissioners, Present Board of
ComraissioneiB, INIaps of Districts, and Portraits of District Chiefs;
together with the Repair-Shop, Fire-Alarm Service, and
■ Boston Protective Department.
BY
ARTHUR WELLINGTON BRAYLEY,
Compiler of the " American Dramatic Directory " etc.
Illustratelj,
BOSTON, MASS.:
JOHN p. DALE & CO., PUBLISHERS,
1 7 BoYLSTON Street.
1889.
Soc sci:
Copyrigfcl, f888, /
Br JOHN P. DALE AND ARTHUR W. BRAYr^ET.
All riglits resei'ved.
ppcss or
laockiDeH ano CburcijUl,
BOSTO N .
INTRODUCTION.
THE information for the History of the Boston Fire Department
has been very difficult to obtain, owing to the unsatisfactory
manner in which the records have been left. In fact, there is no
register of events made by the department in existence, the data pre-
vious to 1840 being scattered over numerous sources. In the task of
research, I have given the care and patience the subject demanded, and
trust I have succeeded in combining into one volume all the important
matters in relation to the department that heretofore have been distrib-
uted through hundreds. The location of the various engines, hose-
carriages, and ladder-ti'ucks, and the companies attached to each, have
been traced, as far as it has been possible to do so by the existing
records, from their organization up to the date of closing this history,
except from 1822 to 1860, at which time the membership became so
large (each company having from fifty to one hundred and fifty mem-
bers on the roll-book), that to mention all their names would occupy a
large amount of space, and would be of no great value, as they can be
obtained at the office of the Board of Fire Commissioners. I have
therefore deemed it sufficient to mention only the officers.
The work of obtaining photographs and biographical sketches of
members of the present department was begun during 1888, since
which many changes have been made in the companies, so that
by the time the portraits of one company were engraved, a mem-
ber of the company represented by the plate would be transferred
to other quarters, and he succeeded by another, thus making it
impossible to retain a complete company for any length of time. It
was found, therefore, impracticable to take notice of such changes after
December 31, 1888, at which time the accompanying plates correctly
represent the companies formed at that time. The work of obtain-
(iii)
IV INTRODUCTION.
ing the photographs, and grouping the entire force in its proper order,
has been a task the difficulties of which only those who have had a
similar experience can comprehend. I am sorry to say, in this par-
ticular, that, despite the care and attention given the matter, four errors
were made (in the plates of Engine Company No. 23, Protective Com-
pany No. 1, and Ladder Companies Nos. 1 and 4) ; these are accounted
for, however, in the records of the respective companies which they
represent. In a few cases a portrait is omitted, and in others only
brief mention is made of a member. This is entirely the fault of the
parties themselves, as they would not take the trouble to furnish me
with the necessary matter. There being no photograph of the first
executive head, Samuel D. Harris, in existence, the plate of portraits
of ex-chief engineers is necessarily incomplete. The portraits of
Messrs. Sawyer and White are missing from those of the ex-com-
missioners, as both these gentlemen refused to furnish me with a
photograph. The old relics, except the two engines illustrated in
the frontispiece, are the property of the Bostonian Society. The
names of members of each company since 1874 were, in most
cases, furnished by the foreman of their respective commands. In
some of the records the names of those who did duty only as sub-
stitutes are omitted, and where dates of appointments and resig-
nations of members are left blank, it is owing to the fact of there
being no records to supply the correct information.
The plan of this History is original with the author ; it is therefore
with feeling akin to trepidation that he places it before the public ; but
it will fulfil his desire should it give to the people of Boston the neces-
sary records of a service of which they may justly feel proud, and the
citizens of the United States a history of the first department organized
in this country for the purpose of protection from that most grati-
fying servant but fearful master, fire.
A. W. BRAYLEY.
Boston, Mass, Oct. 30, 1889.
CONTENTS.
PART I.
CHAPTER I.
1627-1679.
Purchase of Massachusetts Bay Patent,!. — Departure of the Colonists; Settle-
ment in Boston; Boundarj' of the Town, 2. — Growth; The First Fire, 3. — The
First Building Law ; Action taken regarding the Prevention of Fire ; The Terrible
Conflagration of January 14, 1653, 4. — Law for Protection against Fires, 5. —
The First Water-supply for use in Case of Fires, 6. — The First Mention of Water-
engine; The Origin of the Conduit, 7. — Where located, 8. — Order regarding
its Destruction ; The Law regarding pulling down Buildings, 9. — The First
Bellman, or Fire Patrol; Allowances to Owners of Houses for having their Build-
ings Demolished; Provision regarding Gunpowder, 10. — Fire in a Brew-house;
Large Fire, July 19, 1672; Burning of the Castle on Castle Isladid ; Burning of the
Conneys Tavern, 11. — The Terrible Fire of November 27, 1676 ; District over which
it raged ; Anecdote of Rev. Increase Mather regarding this Conflagration, 12. —
Order of the Town regarding the Straightness of the Streets; Increase of the
Fire Patrol, 13. — Use of Gunpowder for the First Time in blowing up Buildings
at Fires ; Daring Attempts of Incendiaries; Vote to send to England for Fire-engine,
14. — The First Engine Company; Where located; The Terrible Fire of August 8,
1679, 15. — The Water-supply; Action of the General Court regarding this Calam-
ity, 16. — An Important Building Law; The Town-watch; Division of the Town
into Four Quarters and Wards, 17. — Origin of the Board of Firewards, 18. —
Undiminished Reign of the " Fire Bugs," 19.
CHAPTER II.
1680-1710.
First Fire in 1680; House of Major Phillips on Fire, 20. —Petition for Abatement of
Rates ; Negro Woman sets Fire to Mr. Lamb's and Mr. Swan's Houses ; Incendiary
found Guilty and burned to Death; Serious Fire, October 24, 21. — Ralph Carter to
• receive Twenty ShiUings per Annum for keeping the Water-engines in Order;
Buildings of Wood prohibited; Amendment, 22. — Privilege granted to take Water
from the Conduit ; Trouble between the Engine Company and the Town ; Chimney-
sweeps appointed by the Town, 23. — Serious Fire, August 11, 1690; A Youth
burned to Death; Large Fire foot of Fleet Street, August 2. 1691, 24. — Order
for Water-engines from England ; The Quantity of Powder to be kept in a Build-
ing, 25.— Training of Engine Companies; Rescue of Goods at the Dock Fire;
Appointments made to procure an Engine from England, 26. — Arrival of
Cv)
vi CONTENTS.
Engine; The Style of Engine used, 27. — Engine-house built; Inspectors ap-
pointed; Fire in Mr. Sewall's House, 28. — Chimney-sweeps advertised for; Disas-
trous Fire, October 2, 1711; Cornhill in Ruins, 29. — District burned, 30. —
The Style of building Houses; Proclamation from the Governor ; Effective Means
of Gunpowder; Division of the Town into Fire Districts, 31. — The First Board
of Firewards; Persons recompensed for having their Buildings blown up with
Gunpowder 32. — Autographs of the First Board of Firewards, 33.
CHAPTER III.
1711-1739.
The Town-house built ; Proposal for Public Wells and Buckets, 34. — Orders regarding
Conduits; Superintendent of Ladders appointed, 35. — Town compelled to borrow
Money to purchase Fire-engine ; Necessity for more Engines ; Location of the Six
Engines, 36. — First Change in the Board of Firewards; Incorporation of the First
Fire Society, 37. — Bill of Supper; Organizing of the Alert Fire Association; The
Assistant Fire Society; The Vigilant Fire Society, 38. — William Wilson, Inspector
of Engines ; Fire at the Stone Goal ; First Appointment of Foreman of Engine Com-
pany, 39. — Duty of Foremen of Engines; Members of No. 3 Company; The Fore-
men's Annual Petition ; Organization of the Entire Department, 40. — Members of
Copper Engine No. 5; Location of No. 1 Engine; of No. 9; of No. 7; of No. 4; of
No. 2 ; of Copper Engine No. 3, 41. — The First Water-engine made in this Section ;
Changes in the Department; Error in Old Engraved Tablet of Foi'eman of Engine
Co. No. 7; Mr. Rowland Houghton, Inventor of the Engine, 42. — Tablets of
Names of Foremen of Engine Co. No. 7, 43-4. — Damage of the North Engine ;
First Mention of Hose ; Changes in the Department, 45. — Slight Fires ; Mr.
Hainslop contracts for Chimney-sweeping; Member of No. 7 arrested, 46.
CHAPTER IV.
1740-1759.
Premiums to be paid to Engine Companies ; Members excused from Military Duty ; First
Premium for Attendance at Fires, 47. — Fires in May, 1740; An Engine for West
Boston; Firemen Exempt from Jury Duty; Membership of Engine Company at
West End, 48. — The Old Engine of Captain Earle ; Fire at the Rope-walk in West
End ; The Department complained of for not carrying Sufficient Hooks ; The Marl-
borough Engine, 49. — New By-Laws regarding Chimney-sweeping ; Fire at Mill
Bridge ; The West and North Engines, 50. — Changes in No. 9 ; Fire at the South
End; Change in the Locations of Engines, 51. — New Act regarding Board of
Firewards ; Changes in Different Companies ; The First Election of Firewards, 52. —
Returns for Choice of Firewards; Town-house Burned, 53. — Faneuil Hall offered
for Use of the Court; Removal of Engine No. 9,54. — Governor Hutchinson desires
Engine No. 2 removed; The South Engine; Captain Blower resigns; The Number
of Firewards increased, 55. — Fire in Marlborough Street; Changes in the Board
of Firewards; Firewards elected, 1755; Dutch Ship wrecked, and Purchase of an
Engine; New Company formed at the North End; Terrible Fire, January 13, 1756,
on Hanover Street, 56. — Election of Firewards, 1757 ; Governor excuses One Hun-
dred Men from Military Duties : First numbering of Engines ; List and Names of
Engine Companies, 57. — The Entire Department supplied with Buckets, 58. — The
Largest Fire for Several Years, 59.
CONTENTS. VU
CHAPTER V.
1760-1763.
The Great Fire, March 17, 1760; The Great Fire, March 20, 1760; Where tlie Fire began,
0. — A List of tiie Sufferers, 61. — Copy of Vote passed by the Great and General
Court, 62. — Description of an Eye-witness; Petition to' Parliament for Relief, 63. —
Donations from all Parts of the Country, 64. —Incidents; An Act for Better re-
building the Town ; More Speedy Methods for extinguishing Fires adopted, 65. —
Change in the Board of Firewards ; Removal of Engine No. 1 ; Large Fire in Janu-
ary, 1761 ; Faneuil Hall on Fire, 66. — Order regarding Members of the Depart-
ment, 67. —Number of Ladders owned by the Town; Enginemen to assist tlie
Watch; The Block House burned on the Common; Changes in the Companies;
Well for holding Salt-water at the Dock, 68. — Where the Town Ladders were kept ;
Large Fire on the 10th of June ; Changes in the Department ; Severe Fire iu New-
bury Street, 69. — Engine-house No. 8 burned; Number of Firewards inadequate, 70.
CHAPTER VI.
1764-1774.
Prevalence of Small-pox; Fire at Harvard College; Fire in Auchmuty Lane,
71. —Changes in the Engine Company; Tlie First Complaint regarding a Fore-
man; Petition of Engine Company No. 8 to the Selectmen; A New Company
organized ; The First Badge and Fire-hat adopted ; Names of Firewards elected
for 1765, 72. — Mr. David Wheeler manufactures the First Complete Engine in
the Town; The Stamp Act Riot; The First Fire in 1766, 73. — Choice of Fire-
wards; Repeal of the Stamp Act; The Obelisk burned on the Common, 74. —
Changes in Engine Companies; Large Fire, February 3, 1767; Other Fires, 75. —
Mr. Wheeler asks to build a New Engine; Fire-engines prohibited from being
imported; Orders regarding Hats; Changes in the Department; Firewards elected,
1768 ; Engine No. 10 taken in Charge by the Town, 76. — Changes in the Depart-
ment ; Large Fire, January 30, 1769 ; The Jail on Fire, 77. — Changes in the De-
partment; Fire in January, 1770; The Boston Massacre; Fire in the Old South
Church, 78. — Other Fires; Hon. John Hancock presents the Town with a New
Engine; Changes in the Department, 79. — The Fire in January, 1773; Changes in
the Companies; Pumps used, and where located ; Fire in the Custom-House ; The
First Church built by the Scandinavians destroyed ; Changes in the Department,
80. — The Last Fire of the Year ; Changes in the Firewards ; Terrible Fire and Loss
of Life, 81.
CHAPTER VII.
1775-1789.
The First Fire in 1775; Changes in the Board of Firewards; Committee to inspect
the Engines; Fire in the Barracks of the British Troops, 82. — Charlestown fired,
June 17; Firewards appointed; Castle William burnt; Firewards elected; Bar-
racks on Cobble Hill burned, 83. — Enginemen drafted in the Army; A Committee
appointed to investigate the Reduction of the Enginemen ; Increase of Premiums for
Engines, 84. — Other Fires; Fine for disobeying Firewards; Masters of all the
Engines apply to the General Court, 85. —Appointments for 1783; Sleds provided in
Viii CONTENTS.
Winter; Changes in theFirewards, 86. — Fire near Oliver's Dock ; Two Men killed ;
Change in Firewards, 87. — Fire in Cold Lane ; Petition to establish a Fire-office
Insurance, 88. — Long Poles and Buckets provided for Engine Companies; Change
in Companies ; Fire in the Jail, 89. — Terrible Fire, April 19, 1787 ; Dr. Belknap's
Letter giving an Account of the Fire, 90. — Map of the Burnt District, 91. — Full
List of the Suflferers and the District burned, 92. — Changes during the Year ; The
Board of Firewards elected ; Appropriation by the Town for a New Engine,
93. — Changes in the Companies, 94.
CHAPTER VIII.
1790-1797.
Changes in the Companies ; Records of Engine Companies No. 1 ; No. 2 ; No. 3 ; No. 4 ;
No. 5; No. 6; No: 7, 95. — No. 8; No. 9 ; No. 10; No. 11; The Rules and Regu-
lations; Meetings of the Board of Firewards, 96. — The Ship " Lydia" destroyed
by Fire at Long Wharf ; Other Fires for the Year ; Changes in the Department ;
Fires for the Year 1792, 97. — New Engine to take the Place of No. 6 ; Engines dam-
aged by Malicious Persons, 98. — Large Fire, July 10, 1794, 99. — Ropewalk on Site
of Public Garden ; Other Fires for the Year, 100. — The Incorporation of the " Mas-
sachusetts Charitable Fire Society," 101. — The "Aqueduct Corporation;" In-
troduction of Water from Cochituate Pond, 102. — Fires on State Street; On School
Street ; The Ropewalk of Jeffrey and Russell destroyed ; The First Fire in which
the Loss was covered by Insurance; The Firewards increased to Twenty- four,
103. — Changes in the Companies ; General Jackson asks for Use of Engine ; Legis-
lature passes New Building Law ; The Federal-stree45. — Changes in 1864 ;
Increase of Compensation, 246. — Total Alarms in the Year ; Masonic Hall burned ;
The "Herald" Office destroyed; System of Fire-alarms rearranged, 247. —
The Old Province House destroyed; Promotion and New Members, 248. —
Hinckley Locomotive Works destroj^ed; John S. Damrell succeeds Chief Engineer
CONTENTS. xiii
Bird, 249. — The Pay-roll revised ; New Members aud Changes, 250. — Large Fire
iu South Boston; Improvements in Various Engine-houses, 251. — A Self-propelling
Engine; Trial of Liquid Fuel, 252. —Chief Damrell's Report regarding the Water-
supply ; Rules and Regulations regarding Badges, 253. — William Barnicoat's
Death; Promotion aud New Members; Fires, 254.
CHAPTER X.
1868-1870.
The Annexation of Roxbury; The Apparatus added to the City; Coal-houses located
in Different Parts of the City, 256. — The Organization of the Insurance Protective
Department; Changes in the Department, 257. — The Pay-roll; Serious Accidents,
258. — The Methodist Church on Warren Street destroyed ; Other Fires and In-
juries ; Districts assigned to Engineers, 259. — New Houses erected during 1869 ;
Circulating Water-heaters, Hose Protectors, and Fire Extinguishers purchased ;
The Peace Jubilee, 260 — New Members, 261. — Many Fires in Different Sections;
The Ferry-boat "Lincoln" burned; The Cohseum Building on Fire, 262. — Dor-
chester annexed to Boston, January 3, 1870 ; The Organized Force of that Territory ;
New Engines for the Department; Changes in the Companies, 263. — Additional
. Fire-alarm Signals; Large Fire and Loss of Life at Granite Bridge, Dorchester,
265. — Fire on Travers Street, 266. —
CHAPTER XI.
1871-1872.
Captain Allen in Charge of District No. 8; Salary of the Chief ; Additional Hydrants
and their Cost; The Adelphi Theatre destroyed; The House of Correction
burned, 267. — A Number of Fires and Accidents; A Lady burned to Death on
Blossom Street, 268. — Changes and Members admitted during 1871; Addition to
the Department, 269. — The Fire-boat, 270. — Performance at the Coliseum Building
Epizootic among the Horses, 271. — Changes m the Service; Increase of Force
Engines drawn by Hand, 272. —The. Terrible Fire of 1872; Condition of the City
The Delay in giving the Alarm, 273. — An Account from its Origin, 275-6. — Explo
sion on Summer Street, 277. — Summary of Destruction, 278. — Street Improve
ments, 279. — Names of Out-of-Town Companies who assisted, 280. — List of Killed
and Wounded; Meeting of Citizens at City Hall, 281. — Help for the Firemen;
Organization of the Firemen's Mutual Relief Association, 282. — The Scientitic
Examination; Criticism of Chief Damrell; Resolution passed by Convention of
Engineers, 283 — Other Fires, 284-5.
PART III.
CHAPTER I.
1873-1874.
Porti'aits of ex-Commissioners, 290. — Petition of Citizens; The Majority Report, 291. —
The New Ordinance, 292. — Report of the Minority, 294. — Three Commissioners
appointed ; Changes made during 1873, 295. — The Work of the New Board, 296. —
Sammett Mattress Factory Fire; Fires of the Year, 297. — Asst. -Engineer Green
succeeds Chief Damrell ; The Board of Engineers ; Annexation of Charlestown,
XIV CONTENTS.
West Roxbury, and Brighton, 298. — Engines placed in Service; Uuiforra of Mem-
bers, 299. — Pay of Members ; Strike of Engine Co. No. 28 and Ladder Co. 10,
301. — Sketch of ex-Chief Damrell's Life, 302. —Fires of the Year, 303-4.
CHAPTER II.
1875-1880.
Plate of Board of Fire Commissioners, 306. — Detailed Members ; Repair-shop ;
Steam-heaters introduced ; Order to Call-engineers, 307. — Style of Fatigue-cap ;
Number of Apparatus acquired by Annexation, 308. — Fires of the Year; Change
in the Board of Commissioners ; New Companies organized, 309. — Change in
Style of Uniform; Fire Record, 310. — Change in the Board ; Fire Record, 311. —
Reduction in Salaries ; Petition of Call-members in West Roxbury and Brighton.
312. — General Introduction of the Bangor Ladder; Relief Valves; Changes in
the Boundary of Districts 9 and 10; "Assistance wanted," 313. — Organization
of the Boston Veteran Fire Association; Fire Record, 314. — Death of Commis-
sioner Chamberlin; His Successor, 315. — Fires of 1879; Meeting-rooms for Call-
members, 316. — The Speedy Harness ; Firemen's Ball ; Order regarding Leave
of Absence; Act of the Legislature, 317. — Pension for Disabled Members, 318. —
Call-members provided for ; Improvements added in the Houses ; Fire Record, 319. —
The Water Tax, 320.
CHAPTER III.
1881-1888.
The Commissioners' Report, 321. — Order creating Assistant Foreman; Length of Time
required in getting ready to respond to Alarms ; Uniforms of Members of Fire-
boat, 322. — Fire Record; The Water-tower, 323. — Orders to the Members; Organi-
zation of the Barnicoat Fire Association, 324. — Fires of 1882, 325. — New
Apparatus added; Permanent Substitutes; Inspector of Hose and Harness; Ap-
pointment of Veterinary Surgeon, 326. — Fires of 1883, 327. — Louis P. Webber
appointed Chief; His Life, 328. — The latest improved Steam-Fire Engine,
330. — New Pieces of Apparatus ; Responsibility of Drivers ; Houses draped in
Mourning; Overcoats for the Members, 331. — Organization of the Massachusetts
State Firemen's Association, 332. — Fire Record, 333. — New Building for Repair-
shop ; Fires of 1885, 334. — Sketch of Mayor Hart's Life, 335. — Biography of
Fire-Commissioner Fitch, 336. — Sketch of Commissioner Murphy; New Ap-
paratus ; Weekly Payments adopted, 337. — Act of the Legislature creating the
Office of Fire Marshal, 338. — Sketch of the Life of Fire-Marslial Whitcomb ;
Fire Record, 339. — Biography of Commissioner Green ; Sketch of Commissioner
Tobin, 340. — Tlie " Limit Age," 341. — Vacation; Style of Uniform, 342. —Fires of
1886; New Companies organized, 343. — Order to the Assistant Chief; Free Rides
on Horse-cars; Salaries of Members; Number of Hydrants and Horses, 344. —
Amount of Hose, 345. — Property of the Department, 345-7. — Taxable Valuation
of Building and Loss by Fire, 348. — Fire Record, 349.
CHAPTER IV.
Biography of F. W. Smith, Benjamin E. Underbill, 350. — Portraits of Clerks at Head-
quarters, Fire Marshal, and Veterinary Surgeon, 351. — David L. Adamsoii, A. C.
Scott, C. W. Stevens. 353. — George W. Stimpson, Veterinary Surgeon, 354.
CONTENTS. XV
CHAPTER V
Map, and Portrait of District-Chief, 356; District 1, East Boston, 357-9; Biograpliy
of District Chief Dunbar, 360. — Engine Company No. 5 ; Members since 1874, 360 ;
Portraits of Present Members, 362 ; Record of Present Members, 363-4. — Engine
Company No. 9; Members since 1874, 364; Portraits of Present Members. 36G;
Record of Present Members, 367-8. — Engine Company No. 11; Members since
1874, 371; Present Members, 371-3; Portraits, 370. —Ladder Company No. 2;
Members since 1874, 373; Present Members, 373-8; Portraits, 375. — Ho.se Com-
pany No. 6; Members since 1874, 378; Portraits, 380; Records, 378-81. — Chemical
Company No. 7; Records of Present Members, 382; Portraits, 383.
CHAPTER VI.
District 2, Charlestown, 385-9 ; Map, and Portraits of District Chief and Call Cliief ,
387; Members of Department from 1846 to 1874, 390-403; District Cliief Bartlett
and Call-Chief Delano, 403-4. — Engine Company No. 27 ; Members since 1874,
404; Present Members, 404-8; Portraits, 406. — Ladder Company No. 9; Members
since 1874, 409; Present Members, 409-14; Portraits, 411. — Chemical Engine
Company No. 9, 414. — Engine Company No. 32; Members since 1884, 415; Por-
traits, 417; Records, 415-20. — Hose Company No. 3, 421; Present Members,
421-5; Portraits, 423. — Hose Company No. 4; Members since 1874,425; Present
Company, 425-9; Portraits, 427.
CHAPTER VII.
District No. 3; Biography of Chief Abbott, 430; Map, and Portrait of District Chief,
431; Engine Company No. 8; Members since 1874, 433; Present Members, 433-7;
Portraits, 435. — Engine Company No. 25; Members since 1874, 438; Records,
438-43; Portraits, 441. — Ladder Company No. 8; Members since 1873, 443;
Present Company, 444-50; Porti-aits, 447. — Engine Company No. 31 (Fire-boat);
Members since 1873, 450; Record, 450-4; Portraits, 452.
CHAPTER VIII.
Map of District No. 4 and Portrait of Chief, 456 ; Boundary of District, 457 ; Biog-
raphy of District Chief, 458. — Engine Company No. 4 ; Members since 1874, 458 ;
Present Company Records, 459-03; Portraits, 461. — Chemical Company No. 1, 464.
— Engine Company No. 6; Past Members, 464; Present Members, 465-9; Portraits,
467. — Engine Company No. 10; Members since 1874, 470; Present Members,
470-4; Portraits, 472. — Ladder Company No. 1; Old Members, 475; Records of
Company, 475-80; Portraits, 477. — Hose Company No. 8; Members since 1874,
480; Present Members, 480-3; Portraits, 481.
CHAPTER IX.
District No. 5 ; Boundary, 484 ; Map, 485. — Engine Company No. 7 ; Members since
1874, 484; Present Members, 487-92; Portraits, 490. — Engine Company No. 26;
Members since 1874, 492; Present Members, 494-8; Portraits, 496. — Chemical
Engine Company No. 2; Old Members, 498; Present Company, 501-2; Porti-aits,
500.
XVI CONTENTS.
CHAPTER X.
Map of District No. 6 and Portrait of Chief, 504 ; Sketch of South Boston, 505-6 ;
Biography of District Cliief , 507. — Engine Company No. 1 ; Members since 1874,
507; Record of Present Members, 508-12; Portraits, 510. —Engine Company
No. 2 and Members since 1874, 512; Present Company, 512-16; Portraits, 514. —
Engine Company No. 15; Old Members, 516; Present Company, 517-21; Portraits,
519. — Ladder Company No. 5 ; Members since 1874, 521 ; Present Company,
522-7; Portraits, 524. — Hose Company No. 10; Old Members, 527; Present Com-
pany, 527-8; Portraits, 529 — Hose Company No. 12; Old Members, 531; Pres-
ent Company, 531-2; Portraits, 533. — Cliemical No. 8; Members since 1887, 532;
Portraits, 533 ; Present Company, 535.
CHAPTER XI.
Sketch of District No. 7; Biography of District Chief Keyes, 536; Map and Portrait,
537. — Engine Company No. 3 ; Old Members, 539 ; Present Company, 540-4 ;
Portraits, 542. — Ladder Company No. 3 ; Record since 1874, 544 ; Present Com-
pany, 546-50; Portraits, 548. — Engine Company No. 22; Old Records, 550; Pres-
ent Company, 551-6; Portraits, 553. — Engine Company No. 23; Members since
1875, 556; Present Company, 557-62; Portraits, 559. — Ladder Company No. 13;
Members since organized, 562 ; Present Company, 562-3 ; Portraits, 565. — Hose
Company No. 5 ; Old Members, 563 ; Present Company, 564-7 ; Portraits, 565. —
Engine Company No. 33; Present Company, 567-71; Portraits, 569. — Ladder
Company No. 15; Present Members, 571-5; Portraits, 573.
CHAPTER XII.
Sketch of District No. 8, including Roxbury and Brighton, 576 ; Map and Portrait,
577; Biography of District Chief Sawyer; Call District Chief Fuller, 579. —Engine
Company No. 13; Members since 1874,580; Present Company, 580-4; Portraits,
582. — Engine Company No. 14; Old Records, 584; Present Members, 587-9; Por-
traits, 586. — Hose Company No. 7; Company since 1874, 591; Present Company,
591-2; Portraits, 590. — Ladder Company No. 12; Old Records, 592; Present
Company, 595 ; Portraits, 594. — Engine Company No. 29 ; Old Members, 597 ;
Present Company, 598-602; Portraits, 600. —Ladder Company No. 11; Members
since 1873, 602 ; Present Company, 605-6 ; Portraits, 604. — Chemical Engine Com-
pany No. 3 ; Old Members, 606 ; Present Company, 606-9 ; Portraits, 608. — Chem-
ical Engine Company No. 6; Old Company, 609; Present Members, 610; Portraits,
608. —Engine Company No. 34, 610; Present Company, 610-14; Portraits, 612.
CHAPTER XIII.
Portrait of District Chief, and Map of District No. 9, 616; Sketch of the District,
617-19; Biography of Chief Munroe, 620. — Engine Company No. 12; Old Records,
620; Present Company, 621-2; Portraits, 623. — Engine Company No. 17; Com-
pany since 1874, 625; Present Members, 625-6; Portraits, 627. — Engine Company
No. 21; Old Members, 629; Present Company, 629-33; Portraits, 631. — Engine
Company No. 24; Old Records, 633; Present Company, 634-8; Portraits, 636. —
CONTENTS. XVll
Ladder Company No. 4 ; Members since 1874, 638 ; Present Company, 639-44 ;
Portraits, 641. — Ladder Company No. 7; Old Members, 644; Present Company,
644-48; Portraits, 646. — Chemical Engine Company No. 5; Old Members, 648;
Present Company, 648-51, Portraits, 649.
CHAPTER XIV.
Sketch of District No. 10, 652-55 ; Portrait of District Chiefs, and Map of District,
653; Biography of Chiefs Hewins and Rogers, 655. —Engine Company No. 16;
Old Records, 656; Present Company, 656-60; Portraits, 658. —Engine Company
No. 18; Members since 1874, 660; Present Company, 660-3; Portraits, 662.—
Engine Company No. 19; Old Members, 664; Present Company, 664-8; Portraits,
666. — Engine Company No. 20; Old Members since 1874, 668; Present Company,
668-72; Portraits, 670. — Engine Company No. 28; Members since 1875, 672; Pres-
ent Company, 675-6 ; Portraits, 674. — Old Chemical Engine Company No. 7 and
Engine Company No. 30; Old Members, 676; Present Company, 679-80; Portraits,
678. — Ladder Company No. 6; Members since 1874, 680; Present Company,
680-84; Portraits, 682. —Ladder Company No. 10; Old Records, 684; Present
Members, 684-7; Portraits, 686. —Ladder Company No. 16; Present Company,
687-8 ; Portraits, 689. — Chemical Engine Company No. 4 ; Old Records, 688 ;
Present Company, 691 ; Portraits, 690.
CHAPTER XV.
The History of the Electric Fire-alarm Service, 692-7. — Past Employes, 697. —
Present Members, 697-702. — Portraits, 699.
CHAPTER XVI.
Biographies of Employes in the Repair-shop, 705-8. — Portraits of each, 704.
CHAPTER XVII.
History of the Boston Protective Department, 709. — First Board of Directors, 710. —
First Meeting; Second Meeting, 711. — Third Meeting, 712. —Fourth and Fifth
Sessions, 713. —Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Meetings, 714. — Ninth, Tenth, and
Eleventh Meetings, 715. — Twelfth, Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Ses-
sions, 716. — Portraits of Superintendent Abbott and Members of Company No. 1,
717. — Biography of Superintendent Abbott, 719. — Present Members, 719-22.
— Records of Company No. 2, 722-4. — Present Members, 724-9. —Portraits,
726.
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
PAGE
Frontispiece
. 33
1
Portrait of Author, and Old Relics of the Department
Autograph of First Board of Firewards
Old Tablet of Names of Foremen of Engine Compan}' No
Dr. Belknap's Map of the Burnt District, 1787 .
Portraits of ex-Chief Engineers ....
Map of Burnt District of the Great Fire of 1872
Portraits of ex-Fire Commissioners ....
Portraits of Mayor Hart, Fire Commissioners, and Chief of Department
The Latest ImproA^ed Steam Fire-engine
Portrait of Fire Marshal, Veterinary Surgeon, and Clerks
Portrait of District Chief Dunbar, and Map of District No
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 5
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 9
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 11
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 2
Portraits of Members of Hose Company No. 6 .
Portraits of Members of Chemical Engine Company No. 7 ...
Portraits of District Chiefs Bartlett and Delano, and Map of District No. 2
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 27
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 9 and Chemical Engine Company
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No 32
Portraits of Members of Hose Company No. 3 .
Portraits of Members of Hose Company No. 4 .
Portrait of District Chief Abbott and Map of District No. 3
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 8
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 25
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 8
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 31 (Fire-boat)
Portrait of District Chief Cheswell, and Map of District No. 4
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 4 and Chemical Engine Company No. 1,
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 6
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 10
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No 1
Portraits of Members of Hose" Company No. 8 .
Map of District No. 5
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 7
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 26
Portraits of Members of Chemical Engine Company No. 2
Portrait of District Chief Mullen, and Map of District No. 6
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 1
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 2
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 15
fxix)
. 43
. 91
. 133
. 274
. 290
. 306
. 330
. 352
. 356
. 362
. 366
. 370
. 375
. 380
. 383
• 387
. 406
No. 9, 411
. 417
. 423
. 428
. 431
. 435
. 441
. 448
. 453
. 456
462
468
472
477
482
485
490
496
500
504
510
514
519
XX
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
PASS
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 5 524
Portraits of Members of Hose Company No. 10 ....... 529
Portraits of Members of Hose Company No. 12 and Chemical Engine Company No 8, 533
Portrait of District Chief Keyes, and Map of District No. 7 537
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 3 ....... 542
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 3 648
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 22 554
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 23 559
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 13 and Hose Company No. 5 . . 565
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 33 569
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 15 573
Portraits of District Chiefs SaAvyer and Fuller, and Map of District No. 8 . . 577
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 13 . . . . . ' . . 582
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 14 ...... . 586
Portraits of Members of Hose Company No. 7 ....... . 590
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 12 ...... . 594
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 29 600
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 11 604
Portraits of Members of Chemical Engine Companies Nos. 3 and 6 . ... 608
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 34 . . . . . . .612
Portrait of District Chief Munroe, and Map of District No. 9 616
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 12 ...... . 623
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 17 ...... . 627
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 21 631
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 24 636
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 4 642
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 7 646
Portraits of Members of Chemical Engine Company No. 5 ..... 649
Portraits of District Chiefs Hewins and Rogers, and Map of District No. 10 . . 653
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 16 ... . ... 658
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 18 ...... . 662
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 19 ...... . 666
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 20 ...... . 670
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 28 ...... . 674
Portraits of Members of Engine Company No. 30 ...... . 678
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 6 « . 682
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 10 685
Portraits of Members of Ladder Company No. 16 and Chemical Engine No. 4 . . 689
Portraits of Members of the Fire-alarm Service, and Old Signal-boxes . . . 699
Portraits of Employes in the Repair-shop ......... 704
Portraits of Superintendent Abbott and Members of Protective Company No. 1 .718
Portraits of Members of Protective Company No. 2 726
HISTORY
OF THE
BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
» ♦ *
PART I.
FROM 1627 TO 1821.
CHAPTER I.
1627-1679.
SIR HENRY ROSE WELL and Sir John Young, with their associates,
near Dorchester, England, purchased of the council for New England,
on March 19, 1627-8, a patent for that part of the country situated between
tliree miles to the northward of the Merrirnac river and three miles to the
southward of the Charles river, and in length from the Atlantic ocean to the
South sea. Under this charter " the Governor and company of Massachu-
setts Bay in New England " commenced the settlement of the Massachusetts
colony, for which purpose they chose Matthew Cradock to be their governor,
and Thomas Goffe, their deputy-governor. Capt. John Endicott and Samuel
Skelton and others were first sent over to Naumkeag (Salem), which was the
first town permanently settled in this colony. The company under Endicott
arrived on September 6,. 1628, while Skelton lauded on the 29th of June
the year following. Mishawum (Charlestown) was settled about this time
by a few inhabitants of that town. On August 29, the same year, it was
decided by the company that the government and patent should be settled in
New England. At this time an agreement was entered into by the twelve
leaders, who at Cambridge pledged themselves to be ready with their families
on the following March to sail for these shores, during which meeting Messrs.
Cradock and Goffe resigned their respective offices as governor and deputy-
governor, and were succeeded by John Winthrop and John Humphrey.
2 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
On April 8, 1630, the little band sailed from Yarmouth, England, in the
ship " Arbella," together with several other vessels, and after an uneventful
voyage anchored in the outer harbor of Salem on Saturday, June 10, 1630,
O.S. The location of Endicott did not please the new arrivals, who, after a
short tour of prospecting, returned on the 19th and reported favorably for
locating at Charlestown. The move was made on July 1, and the party soon
safely landed. The scarcity of fresh water and other objectionable features
rendered this place as undesirable as the first ; they therefore accepted the
invitation of Mr. William Blaxtou, or Blackstone, who had settled at Boston,
or Shawmut (living fountain), as it was called by the Indians (and by the
people of Charlestown, Trimountain) , to locate on the peninsula. The
town took its present name at the meeting of the Court of Assistants held at
the governor's house on Tuesday, September 7, when it was recorded that
"Trimountain shall be called Boston, Mattapan, Dorchester, and the town
upon Charles Ry^^er, Watertown."
The town of Boston at this time was compassed only by the peninsula
which extended from Winnisimmet ferry ways to the Roxbury line ; but the old
records of the colony state that on November 7, 1632, it was ordered, "that
the neck of land betwixte Powder Horn Hill & Pulleu Poynte shall belong to
Boston, to be enjoynd by the inhabitants thereof forever," and on May 14,
1634, " the court hath ordered that Boston shall have convenient enlarge-
ment at Mount "Wooleston, to be sett out by foure indifferent men." Also,
" it was ffurther ordered that Winelsemet and the houses there builte and to
be builte, shall joyne themselves either to Charlton or Boston as members of
that towne, before the next Gen''all court." Muddy river, now part of
Brookline, was also a part of " Newe Towne," September 25, 1634. Winni-
simmett, Rumny Marsh, and Pullen Point were incorporated as the town of
Chelsea January 9, 1738-9.
The part of Boston settled by the new-comers was bounded as follows :
On the nortli by the Mill cove, part of the Charles river ; on the south by the
town of Roxbury ; the west by a continuation of the Charles river or Back
bay ; and on the east by the Great cove and the South cove, — in all containing
an area less than one thousand acres. Running from the Roxbury line to
the fortification on the neck (Dover street) and north-north-east was one
mile and thirty-nine yards ; thence to the Winnisimmet, one mile and three-
quarters and one hundred and twenty-nine yards, — a total of two miles, three
quarters, and two hundred and thirty-eight yards. The breadth was very
irregular : on the line of Essex anel Boylston streets to the water on the west
side, eleven hundred and twenty-seven yards ; from Foster's wharf to south-
west of Fort hill, to the north-west end of Leverett street,' one mile and one
hundred and thirty-nine yards. From Endicott street to the water on the east
it was two hundred and seventy-five yards in breadth, but from Charles-river
bridge through North square to the water it was seven hundred and twenty-
six yards.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 3
During the first ten years the town grew rapidly in wealth and popula-
tion, as may be judged from the following statement: In October, 1633, of
the £400 to be collected from the eleven plantations "to defray public
charges," Boston paid £48, while Dorchester contributed £80 ; but in August,
1637, Boston paid £59 4s., while Salem, at that time second in importance,
was levied £45 12s. Boston was then considered the wealthiest and most
populous town in the colony.
It was not until after the first seventy-five years of the settlement that
the various streets and public avenues had fixed and determined names ; con-
sequently, all the estates that bordered on them were described as bounded
on "the street" or "lane" running from some well-known landmark to
another. Nearly all the first houses were erected on the highway to Roxbury
(Washington street) and upon the portion of Tremout street that is north of
"Winter street, with a few on the highway in the north end of the town, one
of which was early known as "the way leading from the Orange Tree to the
Ferry " (Hanover street) , and the other as " the lower north highway" (North
street) . These were crossed by several short ones, and the whole at first
bounded on the north by the present Prince street and south by Eliot street.
For the first twenty yeai's there was hardly a building west of the present
Tremont street, the most populous part of the town being in the streets
above mentioned, with some small houses at the Great cove, and here and
there one in the vicinity of Milk and Summer streets and Coruhill (Fort hill).
Mud houses were known in the early days, but they were very few, and
of course only occupied by the very poorest of the colonists. The buildings
were generally of wood, although a few were of stone and brick ; but until the
town was at least twenty years of age these were exceptions. The first
dwellings were generally of one story in height, with roofs covered with
thatch or boughs of trees. But as time passed, those who could afford it
built their houses of two stories in front, with a shingled roof that ran nearly
to the ground in the rear, leaving but one story exposed. In time, lapped
or double roofs were in order.
We do not find that any fires occurred in the town until March 16,
1630-1, when Governor Winthrop i-ecords in his journal the following : —
About noon the chimny of Mr. Thomas Sharp's house in Boston, took fire, the
splinters being not clayed at the top, and taking the thatch, burnt it down. The wind
being North-west, drove the tire to Mr. Coulburn's house being a [blank] rods off, and
burnt that down also which were as good, and as well finished, as the most on the
plantation.
Dudley adds : —
Much of their household stuff, apparell and other things, as alsoe some goods of
others who soiourned with them in their house, were consumed; God so pleasing to
exercise us with corrections of this kind as he hath done with others ; for the prevention
whereof in our new towne mtended this somer to bee builded, we have ordered that noe
4 UISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
man there shall build his chimny with wood, nor cover his house with thatch, which was
readily assented onto ; for that divers others houses have beene burned since our
arrival (the fire alwaies beginninge in the wooden chimny), and some English (?) ■wig-
wams, which have taken fire in the roofes covered with thatch or boughs.
Thus the first building act was established immediately after the earliest
cause. Tlie next fire, we are informed, occurred at noon of the 18th of
May the same year, when Mr, William Chesebrough, a very wealthy and
influential citizen, had the misfortune to lose his house and effects by the
flames ; but it was not for the want of zeal on the part of the inhabitants, as
the records state " all the people being present." Mr. Chesebrough soon
after moved from Boston to Braintree, from which he was a representative to
the General Court. Mr. Benjamin's dwelling was the next to succumb to the
element, being burnt during the month of April, 1636.
A severe thunder-storm passed over the town on June 22, 1642, when
lightning struck the windmill situated at the north end of the town, and did
considerable damage to the building, also setting the meal-sacks on fire ;
and severely shocked the miller. During the latter part of March, 1645,
there happened, at Roxbury, an explosion of seventeen or eighteen barrels of
the town's stock of gunpowder, which was stored in the house of John
Johnson. The shock shook the houses in Boston like an earthquake, and
blew burning cinders beyond the meeting-house, that stood in King street
(State street), and created quite a panic, for the time being, among the
people. The early records of Roxbury were destroyed by this fire.
Although there are no records of any later conflagrations until the Great
Fire of 1653, still, from the extensive preparations made by the citizens
in 1651, it may be surmised that the inhabitants were not a little troubled
with this danger as well as with the Indians.
The first action taken by the inhabitants at their regular town-meetings
on the matter of fires is recorded on November 24, 1651, as follows : —
It is ordered that if any chimny be on fyer soe as to flame out of the top thereof, the
party in whose possession the chemney is shall pay to the treasurer of the Towne for the
Towne use, tenn shillings.
The terrible conflagration of January 14, 1653, swept over the principal
section of the town, and, as Governor Wiuthrop states, " it was a wonderful
favor of God that the whole town was not consumed." He adds : —
Mr. Wilson's house and goods, Mr. Sheaths house and goods and three young
children, Mr. Shrimptons house and goods, Mr. Sellicks house and goods, Mr. Black-
leech house and goods. The others I have forgotten their names. It was the most
dreadful! fire that I ever Saw by reason of the barrell of Gun Powder which they had in
their houses which made men fearful to come near them The Lord sanctifie his hand
to us all.
HISTORY OF BOSTOK FIRE DEPARTMENT. 5
From this we know that the fire raged along State and Washington
streets, as the house of Mr. Henry Shrimpton, a brazier, stood on the north
side of State street, near Devonshire street. Rev. John Wilson nearly
adjoined him, while David Sellick dwelt south of them, near the shore line.
We also find in the records of June 27, 1653, " Mr, Rob". Woodmancye to
be paid 40s. as a part of his repairs of his house," which we are of the
opinion was granted on account of its being pulled down to stop the progress
of the flames. Woodmancy[e] was the teacher of the first school in the
town, which was situated on the site of the City Hall, and from which School
street was given its name. This estate was formerly owned by Thomas
Scattow, who sold it to the town in 1645. Although Winthrop gives only
these few names, we judge, from the district burned, that the loss must
have been quite extensive and a large number of dwellings consumed, as this
was the most thickly populated portion of the town. The mention of the
loss of the three children of Mr. Sheaths is the first record of death from
this dreadful cause.
Capt. Robert Keayne, who wrote the first part of his voluminous will on
the 1st of August, this year, probably referred to this fire in the following
passage ; which was also the means of establishing the conduit : —
Having thought of the want of some necessary things for the Towne of Boston, as a
market place and condit ; the one a good helpe in danger of fyre the want of which we liave
found of sad experience.
We do not wonder, after such a calamity, that the citizens were
thoroughly aroused to the preservation of the town from this destroying
element, and at once prepare themselves for defence.
At their meeting held March 14th, the same year, they passed the follow-
ing law : —
It is ordered then that there shall be a ladder or ladders to every house within this
town that shall reach to the ridg of the house, which every householder shall provid for
his house by the last day of the third mo. next, one the penaltie of six shillings, eight penc,
for every on that shall not by the day aforesaid be provided of such ladders, and to forfit
the aforesaid sum of six shillings, 8^, for every mo'th that they shall be soe wanting, after
the aforesaid last of the 3d mo.
It is ordered that every house holder shall provide a pole of above 12 foot long, with
a good large swob at the end of it, to rech the rofe of his house to quench fire in case of
such danger, this to be provided by the last of the next 3d mo., on the penaltie of twelve
penc. forfit for every one that then shall be found defecktive, and to forfeit twelve pence
per month soe long as they be so defecktive after the aforsaid last day of the 3d mo'th.
It is Ordered that the selecktmen shall forthwith provide six good and long ladders
for the Towne's use, which shall hang at the outsyde of the metting house, thear to be
redy in case of fier, thes ladders to be branded with the town marke.
It is Ordered that whosoever shall take away any of thes ladders, excepting in case
of fier, shall forfit to the town Tresury tweatie shillings.
It is Ordered that fower good strong Iron crooks, with chaines and rops fitted to them.
6 IIISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
and thes crooks fastned on a good strong pole be forwith provided by the selecktraen,
which shall hang at the syd of the meeting house, thear to be ready in case of fier.
It IS Ordered that no house shall be pulled downe in case of fier by any men, without
the consent of the major part of the majestrats and commissioners and seleckt men of this
town that ar present thear at the same time of the fier ; and that noe person whoes house
shall be so pulled down within this towne shall have or recover any satisfaktion by lawe
for any house soe pulled downe.
The first meution of the coufinemeut of water for use in case of fire is
also mentioned in the records of this meeting : —
William Franklin and neyghbors about his howse is granted liberty to make a sistern
of 12 foot or greater, if they see cause, at the Pumpe which standeth in the hie way near
to the Stats arms Tavern (corner of State and Exchange Streets), for to howld watter for
to be helpful in case of fier, unto the towne. He is to make it safe from any danger of
children.
The 25th of the following month Mr. Simon Ay res was the first to come
under the penalties of the law regarding chimneys, and on April 25 is fined
ten shillings for his chimney being on fife "contrary to an order made for
prevention thereof ; " while on June 27th another order is passed : —
Foras much as sad events have bene by fire when it breaketh out beyond its due
bounds. To the Damage and loss nott only of estate but of life also, for prevention
wherof it is hereby ordered that no fire shall be kindled within three rod of anye barn,
house or wharfe or wood pile or any other combustible matter subiect to fire, nor shall anye
keepe fire in anye vessell lying in anye Dock, or to anye wharfe after nine of the clock at
night or before five of the clock in the morning, in penalty of every offence tenn shillings,
the one halfe to the Towne, the other halfe to the party complayning; this order to take
place the First daye of the 5th month 1653.
From which we would infer that the origin of the late disaster was traced
to a fire kindled in the open air near some building or wood-pile, and was the
work of some evil persons to destroy the town, for the General Court, held in
1G52, passed the following law, which was the first legislation on fire matters
taken by that body : —
Whereas some dwelling Houses, and other Houses within this jurisdiction, have been
set on Fire, and the means or occasun thereof not discovered, through some persons have
been vehemently suspected to have been instrumental therin : The Court taking into
consideration the danger of such a wicked practice, especially in Town where the House
are near adjoyning, and there being no Law yet provided for the punishment of so
hainnous a crime ; Doth therefore hereby order, and be it
Enacted by the Authority of this Court that any person or persons whatsoever of the
age of Sixteen years and upward, that shall after the publication hereof wittingly and
willingly set fire any Barn, Stable Mill, out House stack of wood Corn or Hay or any
other thing of like nature shall upon due conviction by testimony or confession, pay
double damage to the party damnified, and be severely wliipt.
HISTOEY OF BOSTON FIRE BEPAETMENT. 7
And if any person of the age aforesaid shall after the publication hereof wittingly
and willingly, and felloniously, set on fire any Dwelling House Meeting House Store
House, or shall in like manner set on fire any out-House, Barn, Stable, Leanto, Stack of
Hay, Corn or Wood, or any thing of like nature, whereby, any Dwelling House, Meeting
House or Store House, conieth to be burnt, the party or parties vehementl}' suspected
thereof shall be apprehended by Warrant from one or more of the Magistrates and Com-
mitted to Prison, there to remain without, Baile, till the next Court of assistants, who
upon legal conviction by due proof, or confession of the Crime shall adjudge such person
or persons to be put to death, and to forfeit so much of his Lands, Goods or Chattels as
shall make full satisfaction, to the partj' or parties damnified. (1652.)
The first mention of a water-engine is made in the records of March 1,
1653-4, when " the select have power and liberty hereby to agree with Joseph
Jynks for Ingins to convey water in case of fire if they see cause so to do."
It will be seen, therefore, that the people were thoroughly awakened to the
danger to which their town was subjected, having been taught by the sad
experiences of the year.
On the 25th of December, 1654, the fine for allowing chimneys to flame
was reduced to five shillings, and the previous order repealed, while on
January 29, 1654-5, a like penalty was inflicted on any man who carried off
any of the town ladders or buckets. No doubt there was a fire during this
year, as an order was passed on February 26, as follows : —
Wheras upon occayson of fire the buccetts were taken and made use of, severall of
them nott yett returned, it is hereby ordered that whoever hath anie of the sayd buccetts
shall forth with returne them in penalty of tenn shillings for every buccett nott returned
within tenn dayes.
The fine of five shillings did not seem to satisfy the authorities, as we
find an order passed November 27, 1655, that " Isaac Walker, Sam. Norden,
Robt Nanny, and Xofer Gibson are fined 10s. a man, for their chymnyes
being on fire, which the constables are to leavy ; " but Norden had half of his
fine remitted. Robert Wyatt and William Lane were appointed chimney-
sweeps. They were " to cry aboutt Streetes that they may bee knowne."
March 31, 1656, James Nabors is fined five shillings for his chimney flaming,
and on May 25, 1657, Isaac Cullimore was ''ordered to secure a chimny in
his leantoo from danger of fire within eight dayes, on penalty of 20s."
The question of a good water-supply was one of the early difficulties, and
recourse was had to artificial means soon after the town was settled. The
origin of the conduit or reservoir, as we have mentioned, can be traced to
the provisions in the will of Capt. Robert Keayne. In 1649, during his life-
time, Mr. William Tyng gave certain pri\'ileges to Messrs. James Everell and
Joshua Scottow and their associates, in a certain estate, —
With free liberty to dig, find out, erect and set up one fountain, well, headspring, or
more within his land or pasture ground ... as also from said well or wells, fountain
or fountains, to dig or trench through said pasture ground, or lay down such pipes or water
8 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
work conveyances as should be necessary for the carrying or conveying of water from tlie
aforesaid fountains or wells into such place as the said neighborhood and company shall
see convenient for the erecting of a conduit or water works.
Mr. Tyng died January 18, 1652-3, aud subsequently the grant was con-
firmed by the trustees of his children, on April 29, 1656. In March of that
year Mr. Everell and the neighbors were granted one of the bells which were
given to the town by Captain Cromwell for a clock, to enjoy while they make
use of it there ; so that the conduit must have been in use at this date. The
General Court, in their session of 1652, granted an act of incorporation to the
nihabitants of the Conduit street in Boston to provide a fresh supply of water
to their families, and especially for use in case of fire ; they were annually
to elect two of the proprietors to be masters or wardens of the water- works,
with power to arrange for tlie payment of the yearly rent of the land, to make
all necessary repairs, to assess the proper sums, and to admit new members.
If any persons should be found guilty of wasting the water or injuring the
pipes, cisterns, or fountains, tlie wardens for the time being might prosecute
the offenders ; and if any person should take water from the conduit without
license the wardens might confiscate ' ' such vessels from them as they bring
to carry such water with." This conduit was a large reservoir, about twelve
feet square, made for holding water conveyed to it by wooden pipes leading
from neighboring wells and springs, and was situated in a square formed by
the junction of Wing's lane (now Elm street) and Union street, in the
neighborhood of tlie present North street, and a short distance from Dock
square. The street leading from the conduit to the drawbridge placed over
the Mill creek (Blackstone street) was one of the first highways laid out,
and was known as Conduit street.
Over the reservoir was a wooden building used for storage purposes ; but
later this was removed and a covering of planks was laid over the conduit,
raised in the centre about two feet and sloping to the sides. On Saturdays
this platform was used as a stand for a meal-market, and near this was a bell
given by Captain Cromwell. (See Shurtleff's Boston.) In the records of the
town after this, frequent mention is made of the conduit for repairs, permits
for laying pipes, etc. ; but it never fulfilled the object of its projectors, and
was allowed to go into decay a few years later. We find in the records of
July 28, 1657, that
Deacon Marshall and Ensigne Hull are appointed to gaine liberty in writing of Mr.
Seaborne Cotton and his mother to bring water down from their hill to the conduit
intended to be erected.
Also, —
Deacon Marshall Ensigne Scotto and W"' Davis and any two of them are empowered
to Joyne with any one or two of the committe to treat and agree with any workmen for
the erecting of and bringing water to the conduit intended to be erected.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 9
And on March 14, 1671-2, Mr. Nicholas Page (who married Anne, a
granddaughter of Captain Keayne) was granted liberty
To take away the bricks belonging to tlie place intended for a conduit at the end of the
Town House before his door, provided he immediately fill the place even with the ground
about it, for which he brought a note from the overseers of Capt Robt Keaynes will, & a
discharge for his guift expended thereabout, a coppie whereof foUoweth & ye originall
kept among the towne writings
To the Select of Bostone, Vnderstanding by Mr. Page that the place builded for a
conduit is prejudicial to his house & shops and that you are Willinge he should remove and
improve it to his own use, if our consent may be had thereto and being informed likewise
that Capt. Robt Keaynes guift to the Towne of Boston for y' end hath beene expended
vpon that worke, though by the prouidence of God it hath not prooved soe vsefuU as
was expected and desired, vpon these considerations Weethe ouerseers of Capt Keaynes
will shall acquiesse in what is done, and not trouble the towne of Bostone any further
in relation to that particular. Witness our hands the 7"> of 1^' Mo. 1671.
Symond Bradstreet,
Daniel Denison,
Edward Rawson,
James Johnson.
On the approach of the cold weather the records contain one or more
fires, and warnings against carelessness regarding chimneys. Ben. Gillam and
James Roulstone are fined ten shillings each for making a fire on the wharf,
on July 28, 1657, and on the 31st of the following month Graves is fined
for his chimney being on fire " and his landlord for want of a ladder." On
Apnl 26, 1658, John Marshall is ordered to go through the town to see that
aU the houses are supplied with ladders, and report delinquents. On June 29
the following order was passed : —
"WTiereas many careless persons carry fire from one house into another in open fire
pans or brands ends, by reason of which great damage may accrew to the towne ; It is
therefore ordered that no person shall have liberty to carry fire from one house to another
without a safe vessell to secure itt from the winde, upon the poenalty of ten shillings to be
paid by every party so fetching, and half so much by those that permitt them so to take
fire.
And on January 3 : —
Itt is ordered that the Treasurer shall forthwith provide sixe substantiall ladders and
three iron hookes, as also to g^tt the leather bucketts repay red for the townes use.
The law regarding the pulling down of houses was somewhat amended on
March 4, 1658-9, when it was ordered that any house destroyed by the order
of the authorities the owner should have their loss made good by the town.
The old town-house seems to be rigidly guarded against fire, as an order
was issued at this meeting that no person, whether watchman or any other,
should at any time take tobacco or bring a lighted match or fire in any part of
the building, except in case of military exercise and under cover, for the use of
10 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
the house. The fiae for disobedience was twenty shillings ; and in the orders
to the town watch for the year 1662 the house was to have special care
regarding persons talcing tobacco or using fire.
Edward Davis and Joseph Gridley were employed as bellmen to walk
through and about the town from 12 o'clock at night to 5 o'clock in the
morning, and if he saw an extraordinary light or fire in any house or vessel
to inspect it, and if necessary to give an alarm. They were also commanded
to order out any light in vessels lying at the docks or creeks, and to caution
the inhabitants whenever they saw their light burning. Thus the first fire
patrol was established. •
Careless citizens are warned and fined for defective chimneys, and the
inhabitants make complaint of any who endanger the town by this cause, which
result in large fires and a stricter watch. The wharves and vessels are also a
source of care and vigilance, and in the order to the water bailiffs, April 27,
1663, we find a clause stating that no vessel lying at the dock or wharf is
allowed to keep any fire between 9 P.M. and 5 A.M. on a penalty of ten
shillings. John Marshal is empowered, August 28, 1665, to collect fines from
delinquents of the ladder law. On March 30, 1668, an inspection of chim-
neys by two bricklayers occurred, which resulted in warning fifteen tenants to
have them repaired within twenty-six days ; the majority of these were coop-
ers, who were forbid firing any cask in any shop or warehouse without a
suflScient chimney, otherwise to pay a fine of twenty shillings.
January 30, 1670-1, Mr. John Anderson was allowed £120 for his house
and goods which were blown up in the great fire, and John Freeke and Capt
Samuel Skarlet were allowed the rates of £4 8s., in consideration of their
shops being pulled down to arrest the progress of the flames. Bakers came
in for a share of warnings, September 21, 1670, regarding ovens with insuflS-
cient chimneys.
On the 25th of the same mouth the following important order was
passed : —
Wheras it is found by experience that in case of fire breaking out in this towne the
■vrelf are thereof is much endangered for want of a speedy supply of water ; It is therefore
ordered that after the first of March next, and soe forward to the first of November in
every yeare. Every Inhabitent in this towne shall at all times duringe the said term have
a pipe or a hogshead of water ready fild with the head open at or neere the dore of theire
dwelling houses and warehouses upon the penaltie of 5^. for every defect.
The danger arising from explosions of gunpowder came in for the con-
sideration of the selectmen on August 7, 1671, as this article was stored in
warehouses and dwelling-houses at all parts of the town ; it was ordered there-
fore that all powder landed in the town should be carried to Mr. Robert Gibbs'
warehouse on Fort Hill, and all powder then in the town to be removed there
within six days, on a penalty of twenty shillings per barrel in both cases.
The quantity allowed to be kept in any one house was restricted to twenty
UISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 11
pounds. Gibbs received twelve pence for every barrel stored for six months.
P^Usha Hutchinson was appointed a receiver of the powder.
About this time a fire occurred in the brew-house of Mrs. Ollivers, by
which Nathaniel Byshop was ordered by the deputy-governor and some of the
selectmen to receive £3 6s. from the town treasurer for beer delivered out of
his house. Two dwelling-houses belonging to James Hill and John Wallies,
together with some warehouses, were burned July 19, 1672. During this con-
flagration the wind was very high, and the houses being clapboarded and
shingled with cedar, and very dry, the flames soon spread, and sparks carried
to the common, which was fully a quarter of a mile distant ; but the inhab-
itants, by their promptness and hard work, got it under control without
further damage.
Thirteen coopers and others were ordered to repair their chimneys, or
make no fire under them during 1673, and thereafter strict attention was paid
to these matters.
The castle on Castle island, being built of timber, took fire on March 21,
1672-3, and was entirely destroyed. The powder and a portion of the sol-
diers' property only were saved. The next day the magistrates of Boston and
neighboring towns issued orders for a contribution of £1,500 to repair it as
soon as possible, and the General Court, on May 7, ordered that another
building be erected, not exceeding sixty feet square within, or proportionate.
It was finished October 7, 1674.
The conduit became a public nuisance, judging from the agreement made
between the selectmen and several of the inhabitants near that section, on
April 7, 1675. This agreement was for repairing the street and making a
watercourse to run the water to the bridge, and from there into the Mill creek,
at one-quarter expense to the town, the balance by the citizens. On March
9, 1676, Sewell records in his Diary: —
N.B. The Common House on the street, called Conneys (on the north side of Sud-
bury street on the curve from Hanover to Portland streets) next the harbor toward the
north end of the town was set on fire, about four in the morning, as is rationally conjec-
tured, for on the middle of the roof of a lean-to were found several drops of tallow. It was
discovered by an ancient woman rising early and so prevented praise God. On March 11
thanks were returned by the selectmen in behalf of the town for its preservation.
The principal business section of the town was at or near Bendall's dock,
or Town dock, extending as far as Dock square, while along the highways
lesser mercantile affairs were carried on. There were a few brick buildings
erected after the fire, the first in the town being built by Mr. Coddington.
The pretty gardens and pastures made the landscape one that was in every
way pleasing to the eye ; the streets were laid out without regard to system, —
convenience was the rule, and the path nearest leading to their place of desti-
nation became often the highways, and the cause of the crooked and winding
streets of our city to-day. Thus situated, the inhabitants were alarmed about
12 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
5 o'clock ou the morning of November 27, 1676, by the terrible cry of fire,
which, before the people could gather to the scene, armed with their meagre
instruments of defence, had assumed most alarming proportions. It started
at the house of Mr. Wakefield, occupied by Mr. Moors, situated near the
Red Lion tavern, just north of Richmond street, and was occasioned by an
apprentice of a tailor, who was called up before daylight ; and being left alone
fell asleep, and the candle set fire to the house. The district bounded by
what are now Richmond, Hanover, and Clark streets, which contained forty-
six dwelling-houses, several warehouses and stores, and the North meeting-
house, was laid in ruins within four hours. The wind was blowing very hard
from the south-east, and when the fire was at its height the wind veered to
the south, and was immediately followed bj^ a heavy downfall of rain, which
we may judge was hailed with joy by the citizens, as their methods for extin-
guishing fire were no match for this holocaust, without which, it would have,
without a doubt, consumed all that section of the town. The sparks were
carried across the river, and fears for the safety of Charlestown were ex-
pressed. But the rain and the efforts- of the inhabitants got it under control.
The church burnt was that of the Rev. Increase Mather, of whom the follow-
ing story is told by his son, in his " Remai-kables : " —
In tlie 3'ear 1G76 he liail a strange impression in his mind that caused him, on Novem-
ber 19, to preach a sermon in these words, Zeph. iii. 7, " I said surely thou wilt fear me,
thou wilt receive instructions, so their dwellings should not be cut off; " and concluded the
sermon with a strange prediction that a fire was coming that would make a deplorable
desolation. After he came home, he was walking in the study ; he was exceedingly moved
and melted in such a soliloquy: "Oh! Lord God, I have told this people that thou art
about to cut off their dwellings, but they will not believe. Nevertheless, Oh Lord God, I
beseech Thee to spair them. If it may stand with Thy holy pleasure, spare them, spare
them ; " so did he walk weaping before the Lord, at the same time he earnestly urged upon
his consort a speedy change of habitation, but which could not be accomplished. On the
next Lord's Day, he preached, not aware of its being so, a farewell sermon in those
words, Rev. iii. 3, " Hemember how they have received and heard," and the conclusion of
tlie sermon was that predictions of evil to come ought to be remembered, and that when
the Lord is about to bring any heavy judgment upon his people, he is wont to stir up the
heart of some servant of his to give warning of it, which warning should be remembered,
that so people may be ready to entertain what must come upon them. His last words
Avere : "People Avon't remember nor mind these things, but as John said unto his captain,
' Ileraember how the Lord laid tliis burden,' so, when the evil is come, you will remember
what you heard concerning it." The very night following a Desolatin fire broke forth in
bis neigl\borhood. The house in which he and his flock had praised God was burnt with
the fire, whole streets were consumed by the devouring flames and laid in ashes. Ills own
house also took a part in the ruins, but by the gracious Province of God he lost little of
his beloved library. Not a hundred books from above a thousand ; of these also he had an
immediate recruit by a generous offer which the Hon. Mrs. Bridget Hoar made him to take
what he pleased from the library of her deceased husband. In less than two years also he
became owner of abetter house and although his flock was now scattered for several months
God made it an opportunity for him to preach every Lords day in the other churches and
entertain successively the whole city with his enlightening and awakening ministery.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 13
After this fire, complaint was received, December 21 , by the General Court,
of the danger by fire to which the town was subjected, and praying that Messrs.
Richard Callicott, John Cony, William Whitw ell, Christopher Clarke, Hopestill
Fostei', William Ingram, Thomas Smith, and Edward Cowall should be au-
thorized to inspect chimneys and order them repaired or swept, of which the
selectmen, at their meeting December 28, highly approved, and added to the
list Thomas Blithe, Thomas Fitch, and Samuel Sendall, who had power to call
upon any bricklayer to pass his judgment as to the safety of the flue. In
the return that was to be made for neglect, those who had not a sufficient
ladder were to be included.
The following order of the town reminds us of the complaint of our
citizens after the great fire of 1872 : —
Hon''*, eouncill Dec 28 1676. Upon complaint made by the selectmen of Inconveni-
ence of y® straightness of y'' streetes latelie laid waist by the fire, it is ordered y' noe per-
son presume to build their again without the advise & order of y"^ selectmen till the next
Generall Court.
Hanover street was laid out by the following order : —
January 1. 1G76-7. At a meeting of the Selectmen with divers of y« inhabitents at
y^ North End of- this town, whose houses were layd wast by the late fire the order of the
Hon'''^ Councill foregoinge was read to them, and the Selectmen staked out the Streets and
declaired that any man might rebuild his house with their aprobation and consent that should
observe the ensuing directions concerninge the Streete. That the West side of the streete
from Maj^ Thos Clarkes brick wall run to a stake near the corner of Thomas Joys land
in that lane W^"^ leads to the place of y« Meeting house & from that stake alonge the s^i
west side of the Avay as now staked out to the corner of Edmund Mountforts foundation,
on y^ same side of y« way and from the corner of Mr Humphrey Warrens house on the
east of the way to a stake in the land of Dan'l Turine Jr. over against y' at Thomas Joys
corner, Avhere the streete is to be 22 feet wide in breadth & soe all alonge the streete to
Eclmond Montfords 2 houses on each side the way. The line to run from y^ stake at Dan'l
Turines to another at Henry Cooleys, from thence to Edmond Montforts on the east &
soe to the corner of Peter Gees house as now staked out.
The action taken by the selectmen regarding the strai2;htness of the
streets was approved by the Council by an act returned to them May 23,
1677 ; but it ap[)ears that Thomas Joy was aggrieved by the action, on account
of the confiscation of some of his laud. His grievtiuce was laid before
several gentlemen, who formed a board of arbitration, and they decided that
the town j^ay him 50s. in county pay, and £20 in current money, which
proved satisfactory. The widow Bastau was also allowed £5 on August 27,
for part of her land, taken also for widening the street.
The selectmen found it expedient to increase the force of fire patrols, or
bellmen, March 12. At their next meeting, March 26, Lieut. Richard Way was
allowed £4 for the loss of his stable, or out-house, pulled doM'n during the late
fire ; and on May 19 the following entry was made : —
14 BISTORT OF BOSTON" FIRE DEPARTMENT.
That some ord'". be taken about regulatinge buildings in y^ respective townes , y' by
scatteringe they expose not themselves to y^ crueltie of y^ natives or bytheir narrow-
streets to y^ dang"", of fire.
Gunpowder was in the late five used probably for the first time in the
town for blowing up buildings in order to arrest its progress, with Avhat suc-
cess is not stated ; but as it continued to be thought a valuable agent for this
purpose many years after, in fact until the present day, it must have its
advantages. Captain Everdeu "was paid £3, June 27, 1677, " for half a
barrell and twenty pounds of powder used to blow up a house at the North
End." "WTiether this quantity was used for this house alone, the records
do not state. If so, it must have been pretty well shattered. The widow
Kerable was allowed, on October 29, £60 recompense for her house destroyed
in like manner.
About this time many daring attempts were made by incendiaries to
destroy the town, and, judging from the methods adopted, they were the
studied plans of some secret and detemnined gang of " fire-bugs."
On January 9, 1077, John Hull records in his Diary that —
A candle was fastened to the roof of a house and burnt through the roof, yet -was
prevented spreading through the wonderful Providence of God, but the author not known.
A barn of Mr. Usher's was burnt about 1 o'clock in the morning of July 5, although his
house and other property were saved. August G. Between two small houses of Mr.
Bradons, situated in Shrimpton"s Lane (Exchange street), was discovered, about 10 o'clock
at night, a lighted candle. About one hour later an attempt was made to set fire to a barn
in Usher's Lane (near Atlantic avenue and Bedford street), but the hay, being cut on the
salt marsh, smothered, and was discovered in time to prevent it bursting into a blaze.
Several other attempts were made in different sections, but were un-
successful.
Regarding these incendiaries the General Court, on October 10, passed
the follow insc ^ct : —
'o
AYhereas many secret attempts have been made by evil-minded persons to set fire to
the town of Boston and other places tending to tlie destruction and devastation of the
whole ; this Court doth account it their duty to use all lawful means to discover such
persons, and prevent the like for time to come.
It was then ordered that all persons, inhabitants or strangers, should take
oath of allegiance, which oath was vastly different then to that prescribed in
1652'. For this end constables and tithing men were to make a canvass of
the town every three months.
Although we can find no record of the fact, it appears that the town
voted to send to England for a fire-engine previous to the last large fire, as
we find the following interesting order mentioned in their meeting of January
27, 1678 : —
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 15
In case of fire in y^ towne when there is occatiou to make use of y^ engine lately
come from England, Thomas Atkins, carpenter, is desired and doth ingage to take care of
the manageinge of the s'l engine in y" worke intended & secure it y« best he can from
damage & hath made choyce of y^ seuerall psons followinge to be his Assistants which are
aproved of and are promised to be paid for their pains about the M-orke. The persons are
Obediah Gill, John Raynsford, John Barnard, Thomas Eldridge, Arth^ Smith, John Mills,
Caleb Rawlings, John Wakefield, Sam'i Greenwood, Edward Mortim', Thomas Barnard,
and George llobinson.
Thus the first engine company in Boston was organized. Thomas
Atkins, the captain, was a carpenter of considerable reputation, as we find
hira contracting with the selectmen, on June 12, 1678, to build a wharf and
highway " within five months after the date hereof." This engine was
probably of the pattern illustrated on the frontispiece, as these were in use
in England at that time. The location of this engine is one often disputed.
We have no data concerning it, but we take it for granted that it was stationed
in the most thickly settled part of the town. The Book of Possessions will
show that the principal buildings were bounded by Hanover, Union, Elm,
Washington, Court, Tremont, the water on the south side of State street,
Devonshire, Water, the cove and the north side of Fort Hill facing the cove,
while State, Court, Hanover, and Elm streets were the most thickly populated ;
taking these facts into consideration, and from what we can learn from sub-
sequent records, we assume that the engine was lodged in a shed on the
town's land on Queen street (Court street), near which was subsequently
built the prison, and the engine was given the appellation of " y^ Engine
by y'= Prison."
The terrible work of the incendiaries began to show itself early during
the year 1679, which terminated before the next winter in a grand triumph of
incarnate desire and ambition, by a most terrible devastation of property.
The first of the series of fires began on May 8, when a fire was kindled under
Capt. Ben. Edman's warehouse, but was discovered before it got under way.
At midnight of the following day the ale-house of Clement Gross, sign of the
Three Mariners, near the dock, was discovered to be on fire in an out-room,
but was smothered with but little damage. The grand climax, however, was
reached at midnight of August 8, when a second and successful attempt was
made to fire that house, which in a very short time was wrapped in flames,
and soon communicated to building after building, so combustible were their
roofs and sides. All the warehouses, with their contents, seventy in number,
were laid waste, as were eighty dwelling-houses ; in fact, as Gov. Hutchinson
states, " it was the most wof ul desolation that Boston had ever seen." So
complete was its ravages that much trouble was experienced by the people in
determining the bounds of their estates, as in many places the landmarks were
entirely destroyed. The territory laid in ruins extended from the Mill creek,
which occupied the same place Blackstone street now does, westerly to Dock
square, and southerly to Oliver's dock, which was situated near the place now
16 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
called Liberty square. Of this district not a single building was left complete,
while the loss to shipping was also very large, as all the vessels lying at the
Town dock (or Bendall's cove, as it was then called), then situated in the very
centre of the district, were burnt. The efforts of the only engine possessed
by the town and its company were, we can readily imagine, of very little
service ; and, as the company were soon after dismissed, their work could not
have been very satisfactory, meagre as it was. As the fire was twelve hours
burning, the tide, which was their main dependence for the supply of water,
was for a part of the time on the ebb, and the dock left dry, had it not
been for the conduit in the immediate vicinity, there is no telling how far the
fire would have reached.
The nearest public wells were then located, one at States Arm Tavern,
Water street (State street) ; another on the highway leading to Roxbury, or,
as it was later called, Cornhill (Washington street), nearly opposite to the
Franklin street of to-day ; and Mr. Thomas Venner's pump, near the conduit
in Union street, very near the Town dock. The building known as the old
Feather Store, which until 1860 stood at the corner of North street and Dock
square, was erected in 1680, UTimediately after the fire. The building owned
by Mr. Thomas Stanbury before the fire was a wooden structure, and stood
at the corner of the drawbridge facing the Conduit square ; two of its sides
faced upon Fishmarlcet street, wliich separated it from the dock, but it was
destroyed, and on its site tlie old F'eather Store was built. This building was
plastered outside with a cement composed, in part, of sand, gravel, and broken
glass, two stories high, -with a very steep roof, about equal in height to tAVo-
thirds of both stories. The timber used for sills, posts, and beams was of oak.
The Triangular warehouse was another well-known building erected after this
fire, at the corner of North Market street and Merchants row. It was
built in 1680, and taken down by the city May 12, 1824, after having bought
it from C. Miller, Jr., of New York. The computed loss at this fire amounted
to £200,000, or nearly a iBilliou dollars, — a loss that would be supposed to
take the ardor from the most enthusiastic colonist ; but the spirit of progress
displayed by them was really wonderful : with such rapidity did they rebuild
that the demand for building material was so great that an order was passed,
on the 18th of the month, to "prohibit the transportation of boards and other
building timber out of the colony for a time." It was considered by the ver}'
pious that the destruction was a dispensation of Providence for their sins.
Dr. Cotton Mather, in 1698, said in reference to it : —
Ah, Boston! thou hast seen the vanity of all -worldly possessions. One fatal morning,
which laid fourscore of thy dwelling houses, and sevent}'- of thy warehouses in a ruinous
heap not nineteen years ago, gave them to read it in fiery characters.
The General Court took immediate action on the calamity by framing the
following first building act, October 15, 1679 : —
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 17
Tlie Court having a sense of the great ruin in Boston by fire and hazzard still of the
same by reason of joining and nearness of their buildings, for prevention of damages and
loss thereby for future.^ Do therefor order. and enact that henceforth no dwelling-house in
Boston shall be erected and set up except of stone or brick and covered with slate or Tyle,
on penalty of forfeiting double the value of such buildings, unless by allowance and lib-
erty obtained from the Magistrate, Commissioners and Selectmen of Boston or major part
of them, and further the Selectmen of Boston are hereby empowered to hear and deter-
mine all controversies about properties and rights of any person to build on the land
wherein now lately the housings hath beeu burnt down, allowing libirty of appeal for any
person grieved, to the County Court.
Had this law continued in force we would not in all probability have such
a large fire record for our city.
At the same date the incendiaries came in for a share of the law : —
Whereas, the persons hereafter named are under vehement suspicion of attempting to
burn the town of Boston, and some of their endeavours prevailed to the burning of one
house, and only by God's providence prevented from further damage ; the Court doth order
that Edward Creeke, and Deborah, his wife, Hepzibah Codman, John Avis, John Easte,
Samuel Doggett, W" llenny, Richard Heath, Sypron Jarman, and James Dennis, shall
depart the jurisdiction and never return, and be kept in prison until ready for their
Departure.
Such was the fear of fire that the citizens, on August 18 of the same
year, cliose a committee, consisting of Capt. John Richards, Doct. Elisha
Coolie, Capt. John Wally, Capt. Daniel Hinksman, James Whitcombe, and
John Usher, to join with the selectmen to consider and draft an order for
the safety of the town against conflagrations. This committee, which was
composed of the militia commissioners, adopted the following excellent
orders : —
Ordered that the watch of this town shall from Tuesday (26th inst.) be kept by
the 8 foot com[panys] each one in theire own quarters or wards of y® towne and that the
Gards m each ward be ordered by the commissioned officers of the respective Companies
who are so to modell theire shouldiers that a proportionable number of carefull men be on
Gard every night. That until further orders theire watch each night : Of Major Thomas
Clarkes Company 6 men, of Major Thomas Saveages 6, Cap' James OUivers 5, Capt W"
Hudson 6 and 2 at the Powder Store, Capt Dan'^ Hincksman 5, Capt John Richards 6, Capt
John Hull 5, and one at the powder store, and of Capt Humphrey Davies compJ' 5 men.
Likewise that the select men provide a fitt man to ward at the powder store from the
breaking up of the watch to the sittinge thereof. Thiit all watch in their owne persons
and every one who by law are to finde arms are to watch.
That the towne be divided in to 4 quarters each one to consist of two wards, and that
there be lodged in each quarter 4 Barrels of Powder and 6 hand engines & 2 crookes in
each ward which the selectmen are hereby ordered to provide. That the following persons
take care and dispose of premises in their respective quarters viz', in the North quarters
con's Major Clarkes & Capt Richards com", Major Thomas Clark, Cap' John Richards,
Capt Elisha Hutchinson and Capt Daniell Hinksman.
The conduit quarter con' Major Tho : Savage & Capt Hinksnians com''. Mr W""
Taylor, Lt. Danill Turill, Mr Christopher Clark & Lt. Anthony Chickley.
18 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The center quarf cont? Capt OUivers & Capt Davis comp'^, Major Thomas Savage,
Mr Anthony Stoddard, Capt Thos. Brattle & Mr. Elisha Cooke.
The South quarf con' Cap' Hudsons & Capt Hulls comp'^, John Joyliff, Capt. John
Hull, Capt John Faireweather, Capt John Wally. And thats^^ persons or any two of them
shall (in case of fire) order the blowing up or pulling downe of houses in any of the
quarters, and apoynt'fit persons who togeath"" with the constables of each quarter shall be
thereabout imployed not excludinge any superior power if present.
From the above we find the origin of the Board of Firewards, which
were afterwards established by the General Court, although they are not given
that title in this order. The hand-engines mentioned are no doubt some in-
vention of Jenky's, as no water-engine except the " prison " engine was in the
town at that time. The governor sat with the commissioners at their next
meeting, held on the 9th of September, when they took further action on the
matter of fires : —
That in every quarter of y« towne there be 20 Bucketts provided at ye Towne charge,
commited to the psons that are to take care of the powder as above also 20 Swobes,
2 Scoopes, & six Axes.
That every family shall be ordered by the selectmen to have a proportion of Bucketts,
swabbes, and scoopes accordinge to their estates and that each master of the familie
provide the Same within 3 moneths after publication upon penaltie of doble the value
of what is wantinge accordinge to this order.
That the selectmen collect all the town orders relating to fire in order to the havinge
them pased and printed.
That Mr Isack Addington & John Joyliff p[er]use & put the foregoinge in a right
methode fit for the presse togeather with all former orders relating to fire.
That 16 men (two out of each company) doe ward m y"^ towne every Sabbath day, one
of w='^ is to be on y« top of each meetinge house, to looke abroad for preventinge spreadinge
of fire y' may break out.
A petition to the General Court Avas then drawn up praying for some order
regarding the penalty of incendiaries; also that an abatement of the "last
Rate of ye Country wh'''' was above 800 Id " be made, on account of the
heavy loss of property sustained in the fire.
Peter Lorphelin, a Frenchman, was accused by the Court of Assistants,
held September 2, of uttering " rash and insulting speeches in the time of the
late conflagration thereby rendering himself justly suspicious of having a
hand therein, was seased and committed to the Goale in Boston." His
chest and writings were examined. In his chest were found two or three
" crusables, a melting pan, a strong pair of shears to clip money, and severall
clippings of the Massachusetts money and some other instruments." He
denied having ever made use of any of these things, but said they were given
him by a privateer. But on being remanded to jail he made up another
story, by which he hoped to clear himself ; all, however, to no purpose. He
was " sentenced to stand two houres in the Pillory, have both ears cut off, give
bond of £500 (with two securities), pay charges of prosecution, fees of
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 19
court, and to stand committed till the sentence be performed." But the reign
of the " fire-bugs" seemed to be in no way diminished, as we learn, from
" Hull's Diary," that they made a successful attempt on the house of Lieut.
Edward Creeks, about 10 o'clock, Sunday, September 7, at a time when the
citizens were at cliurch, who, at the alarm, proceeded to the scene ; but the
building was entirely destroyed. Although the wind was very strong, no
other damage was done. This fire was set in the garret, at a spot several feet
from the chimney. The last acts of the selectmen regarding the large fire was
the order to pay James Babson, of Cape Ann, twenty shillings for a " roade"
taken out of his boat and used to pull down houses. Mr. Peter Sargent was
paid, August 30, 1680, for six half-barrels of powder, and Samuel Jackline
for three-quarters of a barrel used to blow up houses, while " James Everell
and his daughter Maniuge " be paid £140 for their building blown up. John
JNIarshall received £10 for the same.
20 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTER II.
1680-1710.
THE style of architecture after the fire was a decided improvement on the
old. The houses were constructed with projecting stories, or jetties, and
were ornamented at their corners with pendalls, the outside, as we have before
meutioned, beiug plastered. Brick houses, three stories in height, with arched
window-caps, were erected after the passage of the law prohibiting wooden
buildings. Towers and gable roofs were introduced about this period. Jas-
per Dawkers and his comrades, who visited the town in 1680, said : —
The city is large containing about twelve companies. It has three churches or
meeting houses as they call them. All the houses are made of thin small cedar shingles
nailed against frames and then filled in with brick and other stuff, and so are their churches.
For this reason their towns are so liable to fires — as have already happened several times
and the wonder to one is that the whole city has not been burnt down so light and dry are
their materials.
The first fire for the j'ear 1680 occurred about 4 o'clock in the afternoon
of Sunday, September 19, being discovered in the top of the Old South Meet-
ing-house, in the uppermost private room, or clock tower. It started on the
floor and extended up the partition boards to the roof, and got to work on
a principal rafter ; there it was stopped, just six feet from where it originated.
On the 22d of the same month a ciiimncy flamed so as to greatly alarm the
people, who, on account of their past suffering, must have been most fearful of
the slightest sign of fire. No further damage Avas done to the building ; but
we are informed that " a man mounted with a pail the ladder braking," from
whicli he no doubt received a severe shaking up.
At the close of the afternoon service on Sunday, November 16, smoke
was discovered in the house of Major William Phillips, but tlie fire was ex-
tinguished without much damage, having only scorched the stanchions of the
window. On investigation it was found that chips had been ignited on a
window of the cellar, which contained wood and timber.
We do not learn of any other attempt until December 22, when the alarm
rang out, about 4 o'clock in the morning, on the discovery of flames in the
dwelling-house of Mr. Sampson Sheeaff. So rapidly did it spread that some
of the occupants were cut off from the stairs, and had to leap from the cham-
ber windows ; but no accident occurred. Two adjoining buildings were con-
sumed, and Goodman Dorset's house was blown up, for which act he received,
on October 6, 1681, £50 from the town. Before this fire had been extinguished
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 21
a ship owned by Michael Page, lying atCapt. Benjamin Gilham's wharf (Town
dock) , caught on fire from a defective hearth. The citizens had a hard battle,
and before it was subdued, it did considerable damage to the vessel and Mr.
Gilham's warehouse. A man named Jeremie Mather, who was at work in the
building, was blown into the cellar, and received a broken thigh and severe
contusions about the head.
The selectmen petition the Court, on February 13, 1683, for an abate-
ment of these rates, on account of the ravages of this fire, which consumed
several thousand pounds' value of property, whereby many of the former
wealthy citizens were left impoverished and dependent on the town for relief.
This plea was granted to all, not exceeding twenty- five pounds.
The w^ork next accomplished by this band of criminals was on February
1, 1681, when they fired the house of Benjamin Negus, which adjoined William
Kent's. This was set on the roof, near the top, about 10 o'clock in the morn-
ing ; but a heavy rain falling, and the engine company, who were assisted by
the members of the County Court, then sitting in the Town-House close by,
being quickly on hand, it was soon quenched.
A negro woman of Mr. Lamb, of Roxbury, being indignant at some wrong
done her, toolv revenge by setting her master's and Mr. Swan's houses on fire, at
midnight of July 12, 1681. The flames spread so rapidl}'^ that all the family
escaped with difficulty, except one girl, who perished in the flames. The incen-
diary was found guilty, and publicly burned to death, at Boston, on September
22 following. She was the first to suffer such a penalty in New England.
The next sei'ious conflagration to which the engine was called was one that
occurred on October 24, 1682, in the vicinity of the doclc, and burnt as far
as the south of Drawbridge street (North street), w^hich district was con-
sidered the richest in town, and did a vast amount of damage. Edward
Randolph arrived on the day before, bringing with him the hated Quo war-
ranto, and it was reported that the fire was the work of his tools ; but it is
probable that this rumor was circulated by his enemies to incite the inhab-
itants ao'ainst him.
During the first part of December the almshouse, towards the building
of which Henry AVcbb gave £100, on the condition that it should be i-ebuilt in
case it was burnt down, was consumed. The selectmen, at their meeting on
the 18th of that month, ordered that " a work-house be provided in some con-
venient place in this town."-
Captain Atkins could not have continued in charge of the water-engine
very long after his appointment, as on March 26, 1683, we find the following
entered in the records : —
Ralph Carter moveing that he may be excused from traininge &Avatchinge for takinge
care of and keepmg the Engine in good order upon occation of fire breakinge out, he is
allowed 20s. in money p. ann. upon that consideration, & he to get himselfe cleare from
traininge & watching as well as lie can.
22 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Carter must have been in charge fully a year previous to the above order,
as on
January 21, 1G83, Ralph Carter moves to be allowed for his lookinge to the Engine
formerlie. It was agreed at a meeting of all the selectmen this day that he be allowed 30s.
in money for the time past until March 26"* last and to have 20s. per an. for the time to
come.
Another order, passed on May 28, says : —
Agreed with Ealph Carter that himself and 7 others (one man out of each company of
the trainer bands) should take the care and charge of the water Engine to keep it in good
order and be ready upon all occation, to attend the use & service thereof, wlien said Carter
shall require it or there be any noyse of fire breaking out in any part of this town. In
consideration whereof by y^ concent of the several captains of this town they shall be ex-
empted from training and are to attend the said service upon the penalty the law fixeth
for not training. The several persons are as follows. Ralph Carter, Edward Budd,
Richard Knight, Sampson Dure, W'". Button, W". Paine, Smith, Samuel East and
Peter Oadline.
The building law of 1676 was repealed on November 7, 1683, and au
act passed prohibiting the erection of any classes of buildings of wood, on
penalty of £100, while the selectmen were to determine the question of
boundaries of property in burnt districts. An addition was made to this law
on the 3d of the mouth, to encourage the building of brick and stone, as
follows : —
It is ordered and enacted, that whosoever sliall so build shall have libirty to set half
his partition-wall in his Neighbours Ground, leaving jagges on the corners of such walls for
the Neighbours to adjoyn their Building to ; and that when the same shall be Built unto,
the Neighbours Adjoining shall pay for half the wall so far as the same shall Adjoyne.
And in case of Difference, that the Select Men have power to appoint persons to make
valuation or lay out the line between such Neighbours.
So sweeping were the measures in this law that the erection of neces-
sary small buildings, such as out- houses, etc., were prohibited, so that an
amendment was made January 28, 1684, making it lawful to erect buildings
of wood of not more than eight feet square and seven feet high, provided
permission was granted by the selectmen.
A petition from the proprietors of the land lying in the burnt district of
1682 was received by the selectmen, on which they voted favorably, March
10, 1683-4, requesting that the highway leading from the entrance to the
dock to Mr. Nowell's corner on the east may be laid out at once, for the best
interest of the public for the future, and not to be altered for many years, as
they intended building with brick.
On account of the thorough extermination of landmarks, etc., by the
fire of 1679, several disputes arose among the holders of estates within the
district over which the flames swept, and the selectmen were called upon to
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 23
exercise the power vested in them by the Court, November 7, 1683, " to
determine controversies relating to the boundaries of land laid waist by
fire." Mr. Joshua Winsor, Mrs. Joyce Hall, and Pilgram Simkins were the
principals in a dispute. May 27, 1684, which was determined by the decision
that Winsor had built on one- half of the land belonging to Hall and Simkins.
On March 5, 1684-5, " Priviledge were granted by the Selectmen to
Capt. John Winge, Lt. Isaack Walker, Mr. Nath". Williams & Mr. Thomas
Stanbury, on behalf of themselves and their neighbors," to take the water
from the conduit, which had overrun into the street, and convey it by pipes
laid under the ground to a cistern at the head of the dock between Wiuo-e's
and Stanbury's houses (Winge kept the Castle Tavern, and Stanbury had just
erected the famous "old Feather Store"), for the benefit of the associates in
the enterprise and for the benefit of the town in case of fire. The cost was
to be defrayed entirely by the company, with the privilege that if any damage
was rendered to the well while in public use it should be made good by the
town.
The building law of November 7, 1633, was broken the ensuing year by
Thomas Baker, who erected a wooden building, for which he was fined £100
by the County Court ; but, on his petition, the fine was returned.
The several orders relating to the stopping of fire and use of gunpowder
in the blowing up of buildings, acted upon by the selectmen at previous dates,
were endorsed by the Council on July 22, 1686, and on September 28 Messrs.
Robert Howard, William Rowse, and Comer were appointed to take the
place of the deceased members of the committee who had charge of looking
after powder, inspection of chimneys, and the blowing up of buildings.
The old engine company seemed to have trouble with the town authorities,
just as did their successors nearly two centuries later ; but we are at a loss to
know the cause of these early difficulties. At any rate, on August 21, 1686,
it was
Ordered that Ralph Carter and comp'^ concerned w"» him in the water Engine be
discharged from any care thereof, and that John Joyliffe be desired to send for the Key of
the house where y^ said Engine is Kept & to demand & to receave all other things belonging
to the Towne and were undf the care and charge of s'^ Carter, and tliat the s'^ Engine
& things belonginge to it be delivered and committed to the care and direction of Capt. John
Faireweather & Mr. Edward Willis until further Order'.
On Wednesday, Decembers, a petition was sent in to the Council, praying
for a committee to investigate and adopt some method for the relief of the
many poor of the town, made so by the Indian wars, the fire, and failure of
trade. Chimney-sweeps were appointed by the town, who were to be fined
for neglect of duty, and to have the inspectors oversee their work ; none others
were to exercise that calling.
On March 24, 1689, the office of Overseer of Chimneys was created, and
John Coney, Sr., William Rowse, Edward Cowell, and Nehemiah Peirce were
24 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
appointed, while John Stride, Joseph Dayes, and Jeremiah the Negro were
made chimney-sweeps.
Some of the towns-people must have been loth to pay the fine imposed on
them for flaming chimneys, as on March 11, 1689-90, John Marshall, the
constable, was to take the amount from their estates. Mr. Abraham Blish
was appointed on the board of chimney inspectors on this date, and from this
time until the succeeding century we find a regular election of this committee,
also of chimney-sweeps.
The next extensive conflagration that the citizens were called to witness
in this town was on August 11, 1690. This fire originated at a building
located at the Mill bridge (Hanover, near Blackstone, street), and laid in
ruins twenty buildings ; three others were blown up, by which, AVinthrop
states, " it was stopped wonderfully." Of this fire Judge Sewall,inhis Diary,
says : —
Val Jjfalum. About 2 o'clock after midnight a fire breaks out in the otlaer side of
the mill creek, which gets over to this side and consumes about 14 Dwelling Houses, besides
warehouse. Madame Leverett & Mrs. Rock are great sharers in the loss.
Another, making the fifth great fire, occurred on the 15th of October
of the same year, when, beginning near the Old South Meeting-house, it con-
sumed a number of buildings, among them being the printing-office of Bar-
tholomew Green, which he had just established. The single number of the
"Public Occurrances," issued a few weeks later, speaking of it, says, "One
of the considerable circumstances in the calamity of the fire," that the " best
furnished printing-press of those few that we know of in America are
lost — a loss not presently to be repaired." His premises, located at the
corner of Avon and Washington streets, was again completed in two years,
and was the first permanent press in the town. The Old South Meeting-house
had a narrow escape from the flames. A j^outh residing in the adjoining
house, where the fire started, was burnt to death.
Nearly a year later, Saturday, August 2, 1691, another disastrous fire
broke out at the King's Head, near Scarlett's wharf (foot of Fleet street) ,
about 6 o'clock, and before it was extinguished it had consumed fourteen
dwellings, together with several warehouses and brewhouses, extending from
the Mill bridge half-way to the drawbridge (North street). Among the
sufferers of this fire were Giles Fyfeild and William Everdeu, the former re-
ceiving £60 and the latter £45, in payment for their buildings Avhich were
blown up, while Richard Whiteraye was paid £20 for personal injuries, be-
sides being permitted to keep a public house and sell liquor.
In 1692 a law was passed forbidding the erection of any wooden building
over eight feet in length and seven in height ; and in 1700 an act recites that
this provision has been constantly set aside, and while it would be too severe a
punishment to destroy all that has been erected, yet that such bold and open
contempt might not pass wholly unpunished, and to deter others from doing the
niSTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 25
like in future, a fine was imposed, not exceeding £50 for an offence, on all who
had so offended. The gunpowder treason plot day furnished the same anx-
iety then that the fourth of July does now, and a proclamation wa$ ordered,
November 4, 1700, " To Prevent endangering the Town by fireworks." (Laws
of the Prov. of Mass. Bay, March 23, 1696-1700.)
At the first regular town-meeting, held March 7, 1700, it was ordered
"that the selectmen are desired to get the water-engin for the quenching of
fire repaired as also the house for keeping the same in." Also that tliey
"take care to procure and provide two water-engines suitable for the extin-
guishing of fire, either by sending for them to England or otherwise to pro-
vide tliem for the use of tliis town." These engines did not arrive Until 1707.
It was only two days after the order was passed that the seventh great fire
startled the inhabitants. This conflagration originated in a building near the
dock, and destroyed a large amount of valuable property. Three warehouses
were blown up to stay its progress, for which were used six half -barrels, less
six quarts, of powder, belonging to Capt. John Miles, which amount was
ordered to be refunded to that gentleman by the selectmen at their first meet-
ing after tlie new choice, March 13. Dr. Trasher was allowed 30 shillinss
for his expenses at the fire.
At the general meeting held September 22, 1701, the several rules,
orders, and by-laws of the town were openl}' read and passed upon ; among
them the several orders relating to fires, which were framed at different
periods, were rewritten and ordered to be printed. In the new rules we find
that one sliilling was the fine for carrying fire from house to house in an open
vessel, Avhile in the matter of defective chimneys they were to be repaired, or,
if need be, taken down, on pain of 10 shillings per month for so long as they
remain in an unsatisfactory condition. Ship-carpenters, coopers, and rope-
makers were the only ones allowed to build a fire within two rods of any
building, and they were to have a man standing by to attend the same.
Twenty pounds of powder was the limited quantity to be kept in any building.
No person was allowed to erect or burn any brick or lime kiln except in such
place as allowed by the selectmen.
January 26, a new pump was ordered, and placed in the conduit by
the docic, near \Ying's lane, at the expense of the town, for use in case
of fire ; but it was not until after June 28, the year following, that it
was procured. On March 30, 1702-3, the proposal offered to the select-
men for preserving tlie Town-House from fire was aj^proved and recommended
to the Council. Capt. Timothy Clark was appointed to examine the pow-
der set apart by the town for use in case of fire ; and Seth Perry was chosen to
warn the inhabitants that tliey must provide themselves with the necessary fire
apparatus required by the town. May 25, this same body urged their repre-
sentative to tlie General Council to lay the circumstances of the town relating
to the loss by the late fire, tlie decay of trade, and tlie extra town charge on
account of the increase of poor ; also to endeavor to obtain an abatement of the
26 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
next provincial tax ; to promote the building of one or more powder-houses,
and to oblige all persons to keep their stock confined therein at a fixed rental.
The bills of repairs to the engine were sent to tlie selectmen July 27, and they
ordered James Jarvis £^, and Thomas Gold £7, for their work. Thomas Gill
tried to make an extra dollar on account of the fire, by sending in a bill for
twenty-nine dozen pails which he claims to have furnished ; but the selectmen,
on September 15, ordered him to be paid £6 for twelve dozen, which they
thought was the correct number used.
The training of engine companies was adopted on December 28, 1703, by
the following order : —
Tlie several persons nominated by y^ selectmen and by his Excellency the Gov by an
order under his hand exempt from ordinary training & watching, upon their daily attend-
ing the service of the Towne in managing the watter engine are by the selectmen ordered to
meet at the place where the sayd engine is lodged, upon the last Monday of every Month
at three of the clock in the afternoon and to exercise themselves in the use of s<i Engine as
the selectmen shall from time to time direct. And also that in the case of the breaking
out of fires in the Towne then with all possible speed to repair unto st^ Engine and with
their best skill and industry to manage the same for the extinguishing of the fires in order
to the preservation of the Towne. And Henry Deering is desired and appointed as a
master of s<i Comp'' to take notice and make report of any who shall neglect the due
attendance of their s<^ trust.
' By this appointment we find the third foreman of the engine. There was
some confusion regaixUng the proprietorship of a great amount of goods res-
cued from the dock fire. Owners not applying for them, they were stored,
under the town's care, until April 5, when, by order of the Council, they were
sold at auction, and the proceeds placed to the credit of the town, for relief
of the poor.
In Sewall's Diary, under date of August 29, 1704, we find the following
interesting entry : —
At South Church. Mr. Thomas Bridge pray^; Mr. Pemberton preached: just as had
done his sermon and stood up to pray a cry of fire was made, by which means the assembly
was broke up, but it pleased God the fire was wonderfully quenched. The wind was
so'wardly, so that if it had proceeded from the Blue Tavern [kept by George Monk on
Washington Street nearly opposite Williams Court] , probably the old Meeting House must
have been consumed and a great part of the town beside. Ministers expressed great thank-
fulness in the afternoon for this deliverance.
From which it will be seen that an alarm of fire was sufficient to empty
the churches of their congregation, and cause the greatest joy when it was
quickly extinguished.
Messrs. Daniel Oliver, Gyles Dyer, and Thomas Fitch were appointed by
the selectmen, on October 18, to agree with some person in the town to bring
over one engine, together with some brass-work and other material suitable
for " fixing " another, the charges to be paid by the town treasurer. The
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 27
gentlemen fulfilled their trust by sending Capt. David Mason to England, on
the 30th, to procure one engine and material to make another. From this we
would infer that the citizens desired to try and make one themselves, and
gave up their original intention of importing two that were complete.
The chimney on the building known as the Rose and Crown Tavern,
situated near the Town-House, was complained of by Thomas Atkins and
John Knel and, September 28, 1705. Being dangerous, it was ordered to be
repaired. Atkins filled several public positions after his discharge from the
engine company.
The engines arrived some time during 1707, as we find an order, dated
February 18, desiring Capt. Thomas Hutchinson "to procure a hammer a
lanthorne & a rope for each of the two new water-engines." The completed
engines were imported, despite the agreement recorded on October 30, 1704 ;
but as to who composed the company we cannot state, as no record of them
can be found. On September 8, however, Capt. Thomas Hutchinson, Stephen
Minot, and Joseph Prout were chosen to wait upon Governor Dudley, with the
following petition from the selectmen : —
<
Whereas the Towne of Boston is now provided with three water engines commodious
for the extinguishment of fires and your petitioners holding themselves conserned to ap-
point and improve a competent number of apt persons of the inhabitint of said town to
have the principal care of managing said engine so as may best answer the use and intent
whereof, and for as much as the persons so appointed to said service must necessarily
spend their time in that exercise. Your petitioners do therefore pray that the number of
24 men such as they shall from time to time appoint and employ in said service may be ex-
empt from attending duty at ordinary traihing and military watches as are equivallent to
the ordinary duty enjoyned on them in their exercise of s^ engine.
The style of these engines was very much the same as used in the town
for a number of years after. They were constructed of wood, with iron hoops.
Henry Dering, during this year, offered the following motion regarding the
engines : —
Wherin the Lord in his merciful Providence hath provided this Town with three
engines, you may go on & be in the way of yo'' good and Pass a vote for about forty
Pounds to be laid out for such things as are Necessary for to accommodate the said engians
to facilitate the ends that they ace provided for. And also to procure other things that will
be necessary to use in the Quick stoping, and Preventinge the Spreadinge of fire in this
Town in case it should break out.
And Likewise that you now make your choice and appoynt some men to be a commit-
tee to model a skeme of all things needfull to be done in This affaire and Present it to the
Towne for their consideration And further Determination of what shall be done in the use
of Means for the Safety and Good of the Towne as God shall Direct.
March 3, Capt. Timothy Clark was ordered to deliver two barrels of the
town's powder to Tliomas Palmer and Capt. Thomas Fitch, who were on the
28 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
committee to discuss fire matters. Tliis powder was to be kept in readiness
for blowing up houses, until further orders from the authorities.
A house was buQt joining the north watch-house for the accommodation
of one of the engines, but was ordered, on May 19, to be removed and placed
to join on the north side of this house ; for what purpose this trouble was
incurred we cannot surmise. Inspectors were regularly appointed to examine
houses, and to report in writing a breach of the town order respecting ladders,
chimneys, etc., while the usual complaints were made against unsafe bakers'
ovens and chimneys. Among those fined this year for the latter offence were
Samuel Baley, Gilbert Burt, John Buck, William Thomas, William Obbiuson,
Mr. Cotton Mather, Benjamin Gallop, Peter Barbour, Edward Joseph, Davis
and Mattox Bridghara, Samuel Mould, Jonathan Mountfort, Isaak Knight,
which amounted to €10, one-half of which was given to James Maxwell,
the inspector.
The General Court this year issued their first order regarding gun-
powder, by which all of that material landed in this port — except fifty pounds
in a store, and the ordinary supply of the government — be put in the
powder-house, located on the common, or training field.
Sheriff Dyer took rather an unusual amount of authority on himself by
appointing masters to the two new engines, for which act the selectmen
became indignant, and on February 28, 1708, issued the following order : —
Whereas the water engines being the goods and chattle of this Towne, and under the
care and direction of the selectmen thereof, who are now informed y' Mr. Sheriff Dyer
without tlie knowledge or advise of y'' s'^ select men hath appointed Edward Pell, and
Thomas Hunt to attend the service of the s^^ engines. Ordered tliat s^ Pell and Hunt be
dismissed from y^ s'' service and selectmen appoint persons thereunto.
Another fire broke forth on the morning of September 8, 1708, for an
account of which Sewall's Diary is quoted : — •
Last night we were alarmed between 2 & 3 in the night. I looked out of the South
East window and feared that our warehouse was afire. But it proved a smithshop ; Hub-
bards by Mr. Dastom's and a Boat-Builders shed ; tis thought a hundred pounds damage is
done. Blessed be God it stopped there. Mr. Pemberton's maid saw the light of the fire
reflected from a black cloud and came crying to him under consternation supposing the
last conflagration had begun.
AVe take also the account, from the same source, of a fire in his own
house : —
Mid week July 13 1709. N.B Last night between 2 and 3 hours after midnight my
wife complained of smoke. I presently went out of bed and saw and felt the chamber
very full of smoke, to my great consternation. 1 slipton my clothes except stockings and
run out of one room into another, above and below stairs, and still found all well Avith my
own bed chamber. I went into garret and roused up David, who fetched me a candle.
My wife feared the brick side was afire and the children endangered. She fled thither
and called me up there. While she was doing this I felt the partition of my bed chamber
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIBE DEPARTMENT. 29
closet Avarm; which made me with fear to unlock it And going in I found the Deal Box
of wafers all afire burning lively ; yet not blazing. I drew away the paper next to it and
called for a bucket of water. By that time it came I had much adoe to recover the
closet again. But I did and threw my water on it, and so more, and quenched it thor-
ougiily. Thus with great indulgence God save our house and substance and the companies
papers. This night as I lay down m my bed I said to my wife that the Godness of God
appeared in that we had a chamber a Bed and company. If ray wife had not waked me
we might have been consumed. And it seems admirable that the opening of the
closet door ; did not cause the flame to burst out into an unquenchable flame. The Box
was 18 inches over, closet full of loose papers, boxes, cases, some powder. The window
curtains was of stubborn woolen and refused to burn though the iron bars were hot with
the fire. Had they burnt it would have fired the pine shelves and files of paper and
flasks and Bandaliers of powder. The pine floor on which the box stood was burnt deep
but being well plastered between the joysts it was not burnt through. The closet under it
had hundreds of reams of the companies paper in it. [Probably the paper belonging to
the Society for Propagating the Gospel, for printing tlie Indian Bible.] The plastered wall
is marked by fire as to resemble a chimney back. Although I forbid mine to cry fire ; yet
quickly after I had quenched it, tlie chamber was full of Neighbors and %vater. The
smell of fire pressed me very much which lasted some days. We imagine a mouse might
have taken our lighted candle out of the candle-stick and hearth and drag it under my
closet door behind the box of wafers.
The question of flaming chimneys was one of importance, and
.caused the strictest vigilance on tlie part of the authorities, wlio frequently
issued orders and imposed fines on tlie careless. On November 13, 1710,
they ordered advertisnients to be posted for chimney-sweeps ; applicants were
to meet the selectmen *' on several more days following at five of the clock in
the afternoon," to agree upon terms. Messrs. Richard Proctor and John
Corlison were appointed to carry on the business for seven years. Sewall,
writing of his chimney on November 29, says that the " Northern chimney on
the new house fell a fire and blazed out extremely which made a great uprore
as is usual."
" Thursday, Januaiy 17, 1711, a fire broke out in Marlborough street
[Washington street], in a bakehouse at widow Gray's, and the widow Bright-
man's dwelling adjoining was burnt, including the bread warehouse of the
former. Dr. Cutler's house was saved by hard work."
Despite the constant care and watchfulness, and the increased force of
Are apparatus, the greatest and most disastrous conflagration yet witnessed
in the town broke out at 7 o'clock on the evening of October 2, 1711. A
poor Scottish woman, named Mary Morse, residing in a tenement owned by
Capt. Ephraim Savage, situated in a back-yard in Coi'nhill, near the First
Meeting-house, was engaged in picking over oakum, near which she used
fire, and by some means the flame communicated with the combustible matter
which she was handling, and before she could extinguish it or give an alarm
it had got beyond control, and, being a time of great drought and the build-
ing very dry, the flames spread from building to building until both sides
of Cornhill (part of Washington street) were laid in ruins. From there it
30 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
extended to School street, to Dock square, the greater part of Pudding lane
(Devonshire street) between Water street and Spring lane, and both sides of
the upper part of King and Queen streets, sweeping everything in its path.
In all, there were consumed about one hundred houses, some of which were
very capacious buildings ; in fact, the district was the most thickly settled and
wealthiest part of the town, being filled with stores and dwellings. Among
these ruins was the post-office, then located on Washington, near State, street,
— it was rebuilt August 23, 1713, — and two spacious edifices which had made
a most imposing appearance, because of the public relations to our greatest
solemnities, in which they had stood from the days of our fathers. These
wore the old meeting-house (Washington, near Court, street) and the
Town-House (the site of the old State-House), from which some gentlemen
rescued the Queen's picture. One hundred and ten families were rendered
homeless, for the relief of whom contributions were collected at the
various churches, amounting to £700, £260 of which were given by the
members of the Old South Church. When the old meeting-house was
found to be in danger several sailors ascended to the steeple for the pur-
pose of saving the bell ; but so rapidly did the flames advance that their
retreat was cut off. Just before the roof fell they were seen trying to get out,
but could not, and were burned to death ; their bones being found afterward.
Increased horror was added to the scene by blowing up buildings, by which,
act several other citizens were killed, while many afterwards died from wounds
received. A house of Judge Sewall, occupied by Seth D wight, who " paid 20
pounds per annum rent," was burnt. Lieut. -Governor Taylor, who arrived
the next day, said he saw the fire twenty leagues' distance ; it was under
control at 2 o'clock on the morning of the 3d.
'o
Thus the town of Boston, just going to get beyond fourscore years of age, and con-
flicting witli much labor and sorrow, is, a very vital and valuable part of it, soon cut off and
flown away !
Increase Mather improved the occasion in a sermon entitled " Burnings
Bewayled." In it he said : —
But has not God's Holy Day been prophaned in New England ? Has it not been so
in Boston this last summer, more than ever since there was a Christian here ? Have not
•
burdens been carried through the streets on the Sabbath day ? Have not Bakers, Car-
penters and other tradesmen been employed in servile work on the Sabbath day ? When
I saw this . . . my heart said Will not the Lord for this kindle a fire in Boston ?
*
On the 18th of tlie month, in consequence of the fire and the failure of
the expedition sent against Canada, a general fast Avas kept.
The work of clearing away the ruins was soon commenced, and the
rubbish was used to fill up Long wharf, then being built. Three-story brick
buildings were afterwards erected, with a garret, a flat roof, and a balus-
trade. Shurtleff's "Boston" says: —
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 31
The mode of laying bricks had its fashionable period. The earliest style was the old
English bond, which consisted of courses of brick laid lengthwise alternating with others
lying endwise. A more common style then succeeded, instead of a row of bricks laid endwise
after every seventh laid lengthwise. About the time of the Revolution a very neat style
was commenced known as the Flemish bond, in which every row was laid with alternate
bricks lengthwise and endwise, which continued until the present century, when the present
mode, that of the long edge exposed, was adopted. A style lasts a little more than a
century. The olden house had a large chimney in the centre. This afforded all the rooms
with a fireplace and the kitchen with an oven and an ash-pit.
Nicholas Boon and several other sufferers by the fire petitioned the
selectmen, on October 1, to erect temporary wooden buildings on their land,
which would enable them to carry on their business ; but were refused, " for
other reasons respecting the good & benefit of y"" Town." The 15th of this
month Edward Hutchinson was ordered to take care of the town lead saved
out of the ruins, and have it cast into bullets for the town. He was also to
take into his custody all uncalled-for goods saved from the flames. A procla-
mation was issued by the governor the day after, requesting all persons having
goods rescued from the fire to send them to Arthur Jeffrey at the brick ware-
house of Andrew Belcher, Esq., situated at the dock, who was in daily
attendance for that purpose.
October 17 the selectmen asked for the ten barrels of powder belonging
to the Province. " What was expended to save the Meeting House and Town
House had not that effect, yet that it did at last obtain as a means to put a stop
to the spreading of the fire to the other parts of the town which is a benefit to
the public." This shows that they had great faith in this means for control-
ling fires. The Old Corner Bookstore located at the corner of Washington and
School streets was erected immediately after this fire ; it is the only building
of that date standing.
On the 31st the town was divided into fire districts, under the manage-
ment of firewards, which office was created by the following act of the
General Court at this date : —
An act providing in case of fire for the more speedy extinguishment thereof, and for the
preserving of goods endangered thereby.
Whereas, by reason of the contiguity and adjoining of the houses and dwellings
witliin the town of Boston, persons are under great affrightment and hurry upon the break-
ing out of fire, and not only the jjerson in whose house the fire first breaks out, but the
neighbourhood, are concerned to employ their utmost diligence and application to extinguish
the fire and prevent the progress thereof, and to preserve their substance by the removal
of their goods, being glad of the assistance of others in that regard, and divers evilminded
and wicked persons, on pretence of charitable offering their help, taking advantage of such
confusion and calamities to rob, plunder, embezzle, convey away and conceal the goods and
effects of their distressed neighbours,
For preventing whereof,
Be it enacted by his excellency the governor council and representatives, in general
court assembled, and by the authority of the same, that it shall and may be lawful to and
32 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
for the justices of the peace and selectmen of the town of Boston from time to time to
appoint such number of prudent persons of known fidelity not exceeding ten, in the sev-
'eral parts of the Town, as they may think fit who shall be denominated and called Fire-
Wards, and have a proper badge assigned to distinguish them in their office, a staff of five
feet in length coulered red, and headed with a bright brass spire of six inches long, and at
times of the breaking forth of fire and during the continuance thereof, sliall, and hereby
are fully authorized and empowered to command and require assistance for the extinguish-
ing and putting out the fire, and for removing of household stuff furniture, goods and
merchandize out of any dwelling-houses store-houses or other buildings actually on fire or
in danger thereof and guards to secure and take care of the same, as also to require assist-
ance for the pulling down or blowing up of any houses or any other service relating thereto
by the direction of two or three of the chief civil or military officers of the Town, as is
by law provided, to stop and prevent the further spreading of the fire, and to suppress all
tumults and disorder.
And the officers from time to time appointed as aforesaid are required upon the notice
of fire breaking forth, taking their badge with them, immediately to repair to the place,
and vigorously to exert their authority for the requiring of assistance, and using utmost
endeavours to extinguish or prevent the spreading of the fire an.l to preserve and secure
the estate of the inhabitants ; and due obedience is required to be yeilded to them and each
of them accordingly for that service.
And all disobedience, neglect or refusal in any, shall be informed of to some of her
raajest3''s justice of the peace within two days next after, and the offenders tlierein, upon
conviction thereof, before any two justices, quorum unus, shall forfeit and pay the sura
of forty shillings each, to be levied and distributed by the discretion of the selectmen
amongst the poor most distressed by fire, and in case the offender or offenders are unable
to satisfy the fine, then to suffer ten days imprisonment.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that if any evil minded wicked
person shall take advantage of such calamity to rob plunder purloin, embezzle, convey
away or conceal any goods, merchandizes or effects of the distressed inhabitants whose
houses are on fire or endangered thereby and put upon removing their goods, and shall not
restore and give notice thereof to the owner or owners, if known, or bring them into such
publick place as shall be appointed and assigned by the governor and council, within the
space of two days next after proclamation made for that purpose, the person or persons,
so offending, and being thereof convicted shall be deemed thieves and suffer the utmost
severities of the pain and penalties by the law provided against such.
The first board to fill this office were " Capt. Ju° Ballentiue, Capt.
Timothy Clark, Capt. Edw" Wiaslow, Capt. Edw'^ Martyn, Stephen IMinot,
Sam^" Greenwood, John Greeuough, J. Pollard, Thomas Lee, and W"
Lowder." (See autographs.)
At a meeting of the justices and selectmen, December 20, £230 was
voted for the enlargement of the highAvay along the west district (probably
to "Washington street) ; they also determined upon the petition of the suffer-
ers from having their buildings blown up to be recompensed as the law
allowed. They, therefore, granted the following : —
Thomas Brattle, £35; Eliza Maccarthy, £60; Eliza Powning, £35;
James Meers, £25 ; Martha Guin, £25 ; Mr. Smallpiece, £50 ; Sarah Dudley,
£10 ; Richard Proctor, £10 ; and Francis Holmes, £8 ; and John Smallpiece,
£50, for bodily hurt from buildings blowing up by powder.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 33
Autographs of First Board of Firp^wards.
34 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTER III.
1711-1739.
AN order was given on January 21, 1711-12, for "three groce of pails
for use in case of fire ; " and on the 28th of the same month an order
was issued by the selectmen creating the office of Superintendent or Overseer
of the Fire Department.
James Peirson to be overseer of the persons listed to attend the water engines, and
that they and every one of the persons in y« said list are requested to attend their duty
therein and to observe & attend the order & directions of the s'' James Peirsons in the
management of s'^ engines.
On the ISth of the following month it was ordered that the town-
meeting be held at the house of Rev. Mr. Colman, on Monday, March 10,
when action was taken regarding relief of the poor; also to grant money for
rebuilding the Town-House, " and other extraordinary charges occasioned by
the late fire." The Town-House was built of brick the following year. Strict
measures were taken for the prevention of chimneys taking fire, and
licensed sweeps were permitted to charge the following prices : For each
chimney of five stories high, 18 pence ; four stories, 14 pence ; three stories,
10 pence ; and of all other common chimneys, 8 pence. And if any
servant, or any other than those permitted by the selectmen, undertook to do
this work they were fined 20 shillings,, while any who refused to have
them swept after an inspection were fined 5 shillings for every day a fire was
kept in them ; and if they blazed out within fifteen days after being swept,
the sweep was to pay 10 shillings.
Mr. Maryon offered the following proposal : —
Whether it would not be convenient for the town to have as many publick Wells &
as far distant from one another as the Selectmen shall see meet & y' they be made not by
any publick rate but that every man Should pay a due proportion towards them, and a good
well at the East end of the Town House at a pretty good distance in the middle of the St.
2. Whether it would not be convenient that every owner of a House should provide
one Bucket with his name set thereon and that men Should be chosen to look after them
y' if any Bucket should be broken or lost they should at the Town charge procure another
with persons name thereon & deliver it to him, so that after every owner of an House has
provided a Bucket y' after that they should be provided at the publick charge.
3. Whether it be not convenient that the Tything Men should have the power of
Constables (during the time of fire) to empty Folkes houses of their goods by a Guard &
to deliver them to a Guard that shall take care of them, and in case the Fire spread to
remove them (by a Guard) from one place to another.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 35
4. Whether it would not be convenient that all Women and children should be kept
out of any lane, or St. where the Fire is, only them that are concerned.
Some of those motions were afterward dismissed.
The selectmen, on November 10, 1712, offered to pay 40 shillings to
the putting of the conduit in Ann street, to help defray the expense of con-
veying waste water underground into the dock; and on December 20, 1713,
complaint was made against the conduit nigh the Mill bridge, owned by John
Ballintine, a fireward, that it was open at the top, therefore dangerous : it
was ordered to be covered, or to have battlements placed around it. Liberty
was granted, on October 7, 1714, to Thomas Goose and William Tyler, war-
dens of the Ann-street conduit, to open the highway to make repairs.
Sewall, in his Diary, has the following interesting entry, under date of
January 19, 1713 : —
Great storm of Snow began about 3 P.M. yesterday. Last night about midnight was
a dreadful cry of fire, which was stopped at Mr. Blonts work house where it began : June
30. Last night Dr. Noyes house was endangered of being burnt. About 5 in the morning
there was a cry of fire : Bells rung, Mr. J. Sewell came to my bed chamber door and
acquainted us. But quickly after rising the Bells left off ringing and I saw no light. Mr.
Webb's malt house near Mr. Bronsdon's was burnt down. Twas a great mercy that the
fire was not spread to North End. Part of the house of Mr. Bronsdon the landlord began
to burn.
An advertisement was issued June 2, 1713, desiring all persons having
any of the town library, or those who could give information regarding any of
the books or other things belonging to the Town-House, which were removed
during the fire, to notify the town treasurer. On the 16th of the month
Samuel Bridge and Capt. Thomas Barnerd were appointed to make a thorough
inspection regarding ladders, and to prosecute all transgressors of the law.
A house in Back street (Salem street), occupied as a tallow-chandler
shop by Mr. Blunt, Avas entirely destroyed by fire, February 14, 1714.
A large number of fines for flaming chimneys, and orders regarding the
same, were issued during the past year ; and on June 14 Richard Proctor and
John Coolvson were empowered to make prosecution against those who should
sweep chimneys without a license.
August 6, Edward Winslow and Capt. Ed. Martyn, firewards, were
ordered to provide poles, with hooks and axes, and to decide on a proper place
for the storage of the town's powder for use in case of fire, also as to where the
town's pails should be placed ; and on August 10 Henry Bridgham was
appointed to prosecute the breakers of the Ladder Law. A fire at Dr. Clark's
house at the North End, on October 20, nearly destroyed the building. The
firewards were empowered by the selectmen, on October 25, with full control
of the engines and authority at fires. These gentlemen, who were men of the
highest standing, and had the town's welfare always at heart, saw the neces-
sity of more engines to rely upon in those dangerous scenes over which they
36 HISTOEY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
were to engiueei"; they, therefore, on November 30, recommended to the
selectmen the purchase of another engine. A stranger in the town had one
to sell, and as it was the eve of liis departure for another section, the town
authorities bought it for £100, which sum they were compelled to borrow, as
the treasury did not contain that amount.
On Wednesday, November 3, fire entirely destroyed warehouses Nos. 18
and 19, on Long wharf, together with a large stock of valuable merchandise,
the property of Walter Newbury and Ebenezer Coffin. On the morning
of the 18th, between 12 and 1 o'clock, a fire broke out in the warehouse
of Messrs. Oliver & Welstud, in Mercliants row, which destroyed that build-
ing and the Impost Office, kept by Mr. Russell, many books of which office
were lost', together with a large quantity of goods. Much difficulty was
experienced in stopping the spread of the fire, and several men were
injured.
Thomas Gill was allowed £10, on March 8, 1714-15, " for the pay-
ment of pails taken from him during the fire during October and November
last."
Again did the firewards urge the necessity of more engines, and w^ere
supported by the selectmen; for on June 7, 1715, we find that £180 were
granted to defray the expenses of two water-engines, which had already been
sent after to England. An increase in the number of ladders was also
ordered. These engines arrived soon after, as we find an order on June 21,
as follows : —
Whereas it is thougliv convenient to lodge one of the M'ater engines at the South End
of the town and Sam' Sewell having signified his consent tliat the town maj^have the hberty
of a pece of land of his abutting on Summer Street to sett a shed on, to have the same
until he or his shall see cause otherwise to improve the s'^ land. The selectmen do agree
that a shed be there erected for the housmg of the Dock Engine there.
And on October 18 it was voted that the new water-engines be lodged
in a house erected for that purpose, at the north-west side of the Old North
Meeting-house. From this it will be seen that the six engines were lodged
as follows : The Prison Engine, Court sireet ; North Engine, by the North
Watch-House, next to the Old North Meeting-house ; the Dock Engine,
moved from the Dock to Summer street ; while another was placed at the
Dock, another at the Old North Meeting-house, and one at the Town-
House.
The General Com-t passed an act during 1716 making it unlawful to
keep more than twenty-five pounds of powder in a building, — a fine of £5
and confiscation being imposed on every half-barrel, one-half of which was to
go to the firewards, the other to the poor. It was also made unlawful to
carry powder through the town, unless covered by leather or cloth. Firewards
were given full power to act in these cases ; also to prosecute those who
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 37
threw fireworks iu the streets. This body again legislated on the subject
during 1719, by which no powder was to be kept on board ships lying at
the wharves. This explosive was to be kept by store-keepers enclosed in a
brass or tin funnel. During the following year the fine for keeping powder
in a building was increased to £10 for every half-barrel.
On February 18, 1717-18, a copy of the votes regarding the authority
of the firewards respecting the engines was given to each of the foremen ; also,
that six large and six small ladders were provided and placed in various parts
of the town. The first change in the board of firewards since their organiza-
tion occurred August 21, 1718, when, on the death of Capt. Edward Martyn,
Capt. John Fairweather was elected.
On September 30 the first fire society was incorporated. This society
was associated "for mutual aid in case it should please Almighty God to permit
the breaking out of fire in Boston where we live." The membership was
restricted to twenty. Drake's " History" gives the following list of members
for March 17, 1733-34: William Winter, Andrew Craige, Arthur Savage,
Thomas Handasyde Peak, John Moffatt, Allen Melville, William Murray,
John Cunningham, William Brattle, Thomas T3'ler, Samuel Doggett, Samuel
Bass, Jona Simpson, Samuel Hill, William Fairfield, Daniel Henchmen, John
Tyng, David Cutler, John Hunt, Shrimpton Hunt, Thomas Marshall, Daniel
Rae, Thomas Symmes, Samuel Holbrook, Thomas Fayerweather, William
Andrews, Robert Williams, and Bartolemew Eand.
The societies continued to grow in popularity until after Boston became
a city. We have no authentic records from which we can learn their number,
but will give the names of these few that we have. One club, instituted in
1753, consisted of twenty-five members, among whom we find the names of
James Otis and John Cotton. The object of these clubs was, to be at all
times prepared to assist each other in case of danger by fire. Each member
was to provide himself with two buckets, two clothes-bags, and one bed-key
and one screw-driver. The buckets and bags were marked with the first
letter of the owner's name, and with his surname at length. The buckets
also had the motto of the club. A book was also provided for each in which
the members' names and places of business and abode were always recorded,
and was always carried in their pockets. On an alarm of fire they were to
repair to the place with buckets, bags, etc., and if the property of any of
their colleagues was in danger they were to exert themselves in saving it.
The expenses were defrayed by quarterly assessments. Each society had a
watchword, which had to be proclaimed to the secretary at the meeting ;
failure to do so incurred a fine of twenty-five cents. Meetings were held
quarterly at the principal taverns, principally at the Concert Hall and Bunch
of Grapes, non-attendance of which cost the absentees So. At these
meetings business was done only before or after dinner or supper. We have
in our possession one of the bills of the society of 1753, which is made out on
the back of a pla^'ing-card (the king of hearts), which we copy : —
38 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Bunch of Grapes
Supper
2 bottles Maderia
1 " oporto
6 Bowls of Punch
4 Bottles Porter
1755 July 18
PES. . £.
s.
d.
3.
3.
8.
1.
5.
6.
4.
2.
5.
15
18
Rec*^ pa coutents Thos
Jennor
This, we presume, is a fair representation of the character of all the
clubs that existed previous to 1826.
The Alert Fire Association was instituted November 19, 1787, with
thirty-five members ; they were, Ezra Whitney, William Bordman, Daniel
Oliver, Samuel Sneeling, Nath. Ayers, Samuel Bradlee, John Osborn, Jos.
Eaton, Jonathan Williams, Nath. Gardner, Eleazer Homer, John Cunningham,
John Ballard, Eben Frothingham, Daniel Merry, D. W. Bradlee, Thomas
Curtis, George Longley, William Mack, Seth Adams, Elisha Sumner, Thomas
Williams, Ed. Blanchard, J. W. Blanchard, Benjamin Goddard, John Somes,
Daniel Whitney, Ed. Reynolds, John Baxter, John Rice, Bar. Rand, Ed.
Davis, and John Palfrey. In 1826 the society had fourteen members ; T.
French was president, and E. P. Hartshorn, clerk.
The Assistant Fire Society, about 1800. Its members for January 30,
1810, were T. C. Armory, Natlianiel Armory, S. Blogg, C. Bradbury, J. Chap-
man, S. Codmau, J. Davis, Daniel Davis, Jonathan Davis, Aaron Dexter,
S. Deblois, S. Elliot, E. Francis, G. Green, J. Gove, Patrick Grant, F. W.
Geyer, Judiah Hayes, Jonathan Head, Jr., George Higginson, Jonathan C.
Howard, S. .Tones, S. May, J. May, Harrison Gray Otis, James Perkins,
T. Perkins, S. G. Perkins, Isaac Parker, Jonathan Richards, J. T. Sargent,
W. Sullivan, J. Tilden, R. Webster, Isaac Winslow, and D. Sargent.
The Vigilant Fire Society, instituted January 12, 1807, among the mem-
bers of which we notice Otis Norcross. During 1826 J. Danforth was presi-
dent and Ed. Coverley clerk ; twenty-seven members. The Independent
Fire Society, incorporated January 19, 1826. Suffolk Fire Society, 1826 ;
Jos. Eveleth, president, and R. Ward, clerk. ^S^neas Fire Society, estab-
lished September 14, 1826 ; Daniel Munroe, president,. and Edw. Briggs, clerk ;
twenty-four members. Citizens' Fire Society ; J. H. Adams, president, M.
Amory, clerk; twenty-three members. United Fire Society, established
July 17, 1826; B. M.-Nevers, president, and R. Baker, clerk. Columbia
Eagle Fire Society, established October 23, 1826 ; B. B. Appleton, president,
W. Baker, clerk ; twenty-seven members. Mechanics' Fire Society, estab-
lished March 5, 1783; officers for 1826, John Kuhn, president, and Fred.
Lane, clerk; twenty-three members. The ward companies, or "firemen,"
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 39
organized at the time Boston became a city, soon took the place of these old
clubs.
William Wilson was ordered, on March 27, 1721, to inspect all the engines,
to make any necessary repairs, in which work he was to be assisted by the
members of the department ; a list of the companies were to be sent in to the
selectmen by the following month. Liberty was granted, on February 15,
1721-22, to place one of the engines at Long wharf, near the treasurer's ware-
house.
Judge Sewall records the following, under date of March 7, 1720 : —
At night was disturbed by the cry of fire on the street so that it was past 12 before
my daughter got to bed. Col. Dyer's sugar house is burned and spoiled. The weather
verj"^ cold.
And on November 26, 1722, he adds : —
Friday night last a fire broke out at the Stone Goal and did considerable damage before
it was extinguished.
April 12, the following year, he has another entry of fire : —
In the morning between 6 & 7 the bells rang for fire. Mr. Bridge his Kitchen in King
Street near Madam Stoddards, widow, is burned down. The progress of the fire is merci-
fully staid.
Two warehouses on Long wharf, in which were a number of sails and a
quantity of canvas, were burnt January 8, 1722.
On March 30, 1723, between 4 and 5 o'clock P.M., fire was discovered
in the buildings of Elisha Cooke, Esq., situated at tiie lower end of King street
(State street) , which laid in ashes his four tenements. Another fire occurred on
April 2, in a house in Leverett Lane, near the Quaker church, which was set on
fire by a negro man-servant, who, upon examination, confessed that he had
twice before attempted to fire the building, but only a part of the side was
burnt. He was put in jail in solitary confinement.
An order was issued by the selectmen, April 19, 1723, forbidding any
Indian or negro during the. progress of a fire to leave his master's house,
except it be on fire, on pain of being sent to jail, and being whipped for three
days.
The first appointment of foremen or masters, as they were then called, of
engine companies is recorded under date of March 30, 1724.
Elias Townsend is appointed to be the master of the North Engine (N°. 1) and on the
27th of the following month .Joshua Townsend and Benj. Snelling were admitted en-
ginemen, under which title members of the department were then called, they having pro-
duced their liberty from their respective captains of the militia.
40 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The masters of each engine were ordered, on July 30, to work their
engines on the last Monday of each month, and to make report to the select-
men as to their condition.
Fire originated in a warehouse near Oliver's dock, at 7 o'clock on
the evening of August 10, 1724, from which it soon spread to a blacksmith
shop and several other buildings near by. Several people were injured, and
a large amount of damage to merchandise done.
The following order, framed October 1.8, 1727, cites the duty of the
foreman of the engine (of course inserting his own name) : —
Orded that Elias Townsend have the charge of the Large Wooden Water Engine which
is at the North end of the Town and he is allowed twelve men beside himself, and in case
there should happen any difference at any time among them, that they should want to putt
out or take in any one man, when Townsend that has the charge of the Engine shall give
an account of the persons they want to putt out or take in to the selectmen and have their
allowance or order for their so doing. At a time of fire breaking out, the said Towns-
end is ordered to Improve the said Engine when he thinks he may do the most service.
March 6, 1727-28, Josiah Baker was made foreman of the Copper Engine,
by the North Meeting-house, No. 3, with the following company: John
Adams, Thomas Demary, Joseph Roberts, Joseph Stargen, Joshua Thornton,
Francis Wetaman, Samuel Pousley, Christopher Souter, and John Grant.
This is the first complete company that is recorded since that of the first, with
Thomas Atkins.
Beginning with Marcli 12, 1732-33, the foreman of the engine annually
sent a petition to the selectmen. The following is a copy of one forwarded
a 3'ear later : —
To the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston at their General Meeting in March 1733.
The Petition of the Masters belonging to the Engines and their men. Humbly sheweth,
That your petitioners have for divers years belonged to the Several Engines of the time and
have at all times of fire done their duty altho' frequently at the Risque of your petitioners
lives and limbs. The town was pleased at their annual meetings in March last to free
your petitioners from all other officers in the town the then ensuing year, and your petitioners
being still willing to serve the town and comply with all the Regulations and orders in the
last year's vote. Humbly pray that they may be freed from the future from all other town
officers, signed William Wheeler, Thomas Paine, Jon" Bowman, Joshua Bakersen, James
Read, W'". Young and John Earle.
Bowman was appointed foreman of the Old North, August 11, 1732,
Townsend having resigned; and on November 7, 1732, Thomas Ruck was
appointed a fireward, vice Timothy Clark, who desired to be excused on
account of his old age.
On July 27, 1733, the entire department was organized with the follow-
ing members: The Copper Engine, No. 5, located under the Town-House
(where the Old State-House now stands) , with the following company :
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 41
James Read, foreman; Thomas Flagg, Samuel Duncan, Thomas Plasted
Cooper, Bozone Allen, Samuel Ellis, Edward Potter, Robert Price, Thomas
Goodwin, Thomas Hartley, Samuel Hastings, Peter Cotta, and Thomas Reed.
In the order to the masters, the following was added after the words " when
he thinks he may do the most service :." " and at no time to let the Doors of
the Engine House be obstructed by Snow etc.," which was included in the
orders handed to each company.
Engine at the Watch-House adjoining the Old North Watch-House, No.
1 (North street, facing P21m street) ; Jonathan Bowman, foreman, with sixteen
members : Anthony UndervA^ood, John Stephens, John Smith, Joshua Towns-
end, Benjamin Snelliug, Richard Kent, James Dowell, Thornton Barrel, John
Brown, John Beares, William Marshall, John Lowe, Thomas Kelling, Thomas
Beutley, Thomas Nowell, and Richard Morgan.
Engine in Summer street, No. 9 ; William Wheeler, foreman ; thirteen
members : William Cowell, Henry Howell, John Taylor, Samuel Davis, John
Bowdry, William Wheeler, Jr., Abijah Adams, Joseph Wheeler, Eleazer
Darby, Soloman Kneeland, Johnson Jackson, and John Lawsou.
The Prison Engine, Court street. No. 7. A large shed was built in 1642
in the prison yard, which probably was used for this engine. William Young,
foreman ; fifteen members : Eben Perry, Samuel Sprague, Isaac Peirce,
William Ives, John Peirce, Gersham Flagg, Jarvas Young, Newell, John
Fantel (?), Barto. Sutton, Peter Row, Stephen Parker, James Dayes, and
Robert Bradford.
The Engine at the Dock, No. 4; Thomas Pain, foreman; tliirteen men:
John Demery, Jacob Davis, Iccabod Rogers, Joseph Ricks, Jacob Varm,
John Homer, John Durham, Nathaniel Goodwin, Joseph Lowdn, Thomas
Atkins, William Snowden, and William Pack.
Engine No. 2, in Governor Hutchinson's buildings, near the New North
Meeting-house (corner of North and Clark streets) ; John Earle, foreman,
and eleven men : Thomas Person, Jr., Isaac Russell, William Haley, Jeremiah
Gushing, Thomas Litton, Joshua Attwood, Joseph Burrill, James Da\'is,
Joseph Belcher, and Daniel Merritt. This engine was loaned to the town by
Lieutenant-Governor Hutchinson during 1720.
The Copper Engine, No. 3, by the North Meeting-house (head of North
square) ; Joshua Baker, foreman, and nine men : Joseph Roberts, Joseph
Pearson, Francis Wiltaman, Samuel Pousley, Christopher Souter, Richard
Gutten, Jonathan Tarbox, Hunstable Baker, and Joseph Baker, Jr.
Some idea of the capabilities of these engines may be obtained from a
notice of one contained in the " News Letter," of January 25, 17.33 : —
There is newly errected in the Town of Boston, by Messieurs John and Thomas Hill)
a Water Engine at there Still-house, by the advise and direction of Mr. Rowland Hough-
ton, drawn by a horse, which delivers a large quantity of water twelve feet above the
ground. This being the first of the sort in these parts, we thought taking notice of it
might be of publick service, inasmuch as a great deal of labor is saved thereby.
42 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
This "Tub" must have been the first water-engine manufactured in this
section, and as it was not purchased by the town, it was, no doubt, an unsuc-
cessful experiment.
As the selectmen had the fire department under their supervision, they
kept a complete record of the members and apparatus, whereby we have
been able to trace, with few exceptions, the roster of each company up to
the year 1800. The first change i-ecorded is on the North Meeting-house
Engine, No. 1, when, on April 10, 1734, Francis AVetamau resigned, and
Walter Edmonds and Zephaniah Basset were appointed, making ten mem-
bers. PMward Dumaresq was admitted a member of John Earle's com-
pany, No. 2, on October 3, 1734, vice Joseph Burrell, moved away. October
9, John Waters and Joshua Glidden, members, of Joshua Baker's company,
No. 3, vice Chris. Souther and Joseph Baker, Jr., who had gone to sea.
On the 23d a number of changes occur. A new company was organized
for the Dock Engine, No. 4, with Joseph Ricks as foreman, and twelve
members : John Dumaresq, I. Rogers, Jacob Davis, Jos. Uran, John
Homer, John Durham, John Lowden, Thomas Adams, William Snowden,
William Peck, Nath. Brew, and Benjaman Barnard. The Prison Engine,
No. 7, is also newly manned ; Barth. Sutton was appointed foreman, with four-
teen men : Stephen Parker, William Ivers, John Peirce, Samuel Sprague, John
Tootel, Peter Roe, James Cocks, Ebenezer Berry, James Young, Henry
Newell, Jacob Green, Eliphalet Parker, and Gershom Flagg ; the name of the
fourteenth man is left blank. This will make the appointment of Sutton, as
engraved on the plate of records of the old foreman of Engine Company
No. 7, illustrated on page 43, two years ahead, as on that his appointment is
recorded in 1736, when the selectmen's record enters it as above. Thomas
Crafts and Peter Vergoose were appointed on this company, January 15, in
place of Young and Tootel.
The town, as far as we can obtain any data, was free from fires of
any importance ; in fact, the only one of which we have any notice since 1731
occurred in the printing-office of Benjamin Green, January 30, 1734, which
consumed his large stock of type, presses, etc.
The Summer-street Engine, No. 9, had a new foreman on February 25,
1735, when Henry Howell was appointed to that office, with the following
changes in the company : George Ray and Jonathan Wheeler, vice William
Wheeler and Samuel Davis.
Mr. Rowland Houghton, the inventor of the engine at the distil-house,
must have been quite an enthusiast in the matter of extinguishing fires, as we
find him in 1 736 trying some arrangement to have his proposal regarding the
prevention of danger by chimneys flaming pass the selectmen.
A fire occurred at the warehouse of Captain Tynge on April 6, 1736?
at 2 o'clock A.M., during which three leather buckets belonging to the Dock
AYatch were lost; these buckets were marked with the word " Boston" and
numbered, and were advertised in Thursday's newspaper, and by three writ-
(43)
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 45
ten posters placed iu various parts of the town. It was probably at this fire
that the North Engine was damaged.
The first mention of hose for the department is made on April 7, when
Captain Sutton asked for a piece of new hose fo'r his engine, which probably
referred to a short piece for the pipe, as the regular hose was not used until
after Boston became a city.
Quite an extensive fire occurred on Thursday, May 20. It broke out in
the bakehouse of Mr. Brattle Oliver, near the South Battery, and in two
hours laid in ashes the entire building, together with two large dwellings, a
storehouse, and a cooper-shop. A large amount of flour, biscuit, and house-
hold goods were destroyed, the total loss amounting to £3,000.
A number of fire-hooks were purchased for the department on July 28,
1736, and on September 1 of the same year Nathaniel Brown and William
Clark were admitted members of John Earle's company, No. 2.
September 15, Captain Bowman, of Engine No. 1, resigned his position,
and recommended Anthony Underwood as a suitable person to take his place.
Joseph Roberts was admitted a member of Captain Baker's company. No. 3,
on October 6, vice Thomas Pearson. At this time Captain Underwood, of
No. 1, set at work to organize a new company for his engine, and returned his
list, containing the following changes : Thomas Killing, Edward Edes, James
Clark, John Baker, Joseph Harley, and Joseph Wakefield.
William Weare and Isaac Vergoose were enrolled members of Captain
Sutton's engine, in the place of Green and Peter Vergoose, October 20. The
engine-house at the dock. No. 4, was ordered to be repaired December 1. Cap-
tain Ricks, of this engine, threw up his position on January 12, 1736-37, and
was succeeded by J. Uran, who immediately appointed John Hood as a member.
On April 20 William Stone was admitted a member of Engine No. 1, vice
John Smith, deceased. Five days later David Newell was made a member of
Engine No. 2, vice Benjamin Brown. Captain Uran made a few changes in
the organization of iiis company, as follows: Thomas Atkins, Jr., Benjamin
Eustus, William Eustus, and John Hood.
The land on which was stationed the Summer-street Engine, No. 9,
belonged to Mr. Sewell, he having loaned it to the town on condition
that it v»'Ould be removed when the site was wanted by him or his, which
request was made on March 29 ; but no place was selected to lodge the
apparatus until April 5, 1738, when the trustees of Trinity Church in Sum-
mer street granted them liberty to erect the house at the back of the church,
near Mr. Gooch's barn, on condition that it be removed whenever they so
desired.
The laws for chimneys firing came in for a re\ision during 1737, when,
upon a proposal by Mr. William Hainslop, who offered to take the contract
of that business for the town, a set of by-laM'"s was prepared, which were
similar to those then existing, except that the prices were changed, as
follows : —
46 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
For each chimney of five Stories, Three shillings, four Stories, two shillings and six-
pence, Three stories Two shillings all other common chimneys Twenty pence and all
Kitchen Chimneys that are above the top of the house they belong to, in proportion to the
lieighth of the house at the rate ab9ve.
Fire originated ia a cellar under the dwelling of Mr. Benjamin Hallowell
on January 13, 1738, but was extinguished without much damage. On Friday,
20th, the roof of the tavern known as the Sign of the Dream, and a house at
the South End, caught on fire from defective chimneys, but did little damage.
March 16, a chimney took fire near the town dock, the sparks from which
caught the roofs of three other houses ; but the citizens and engines, being soon
on hand, extinguished them before the flames did much damage.
Isaac Russell, of Engine No. 2, becoming unable to perform duties
expected of him, resigns, June 28, 1738, and his position is filled by Phillip
Howell ; three new screws were ordered at the same time for this engine.
Mr. Hainslop had taken the contract under bond for sweeping chimneys ;
employs five men ; the by-laws drafted by the town on this matter passed the
General Court on August 9, two hundred copies of which were ordered printed.
It was not long, however, before complaints were received concerning Hain-
slop's lack of employes ; but that gentleman, when called upon by the select-
men, informed them that he had punctually attended all orders, and that he
had not sufficient work to keep what hands he had engaged in constant
employment. He recommended that an inspector be appointed to look after
the chimneys, and would abide by his decisions. He was again complained
of, however, on April 30, 1740, and August 18 of the year following, in each
of which he fully satisfied the authorities that he was carrying on the work
according to his contract.
William CoAveU, of Engine No. 9, having died, and E. Darby gone to sea,
Joseph Bu'ch and Thomas Foster, Jr., were appointed September 25, while on
December 27 Richard Goodwin, of Engine No. 3, resigned to make room for
Newman Greenough.
Isaac Vergoose, a member of Engine No. 7, was arrested by Capt. John
Wendell, of the militia, for not paying his fine for absence from his company
on training days ; but Captain Sutton made a complaint against Wendell, as
Vergoose was a member of his company, and therefore free from the ehai'ges
preferred against him, Avhich was granted.
Elijah Doubleday was admitted a member of Engine No. 1 , vice Thomas
Kelling, on August 22, 1739. A fire broke out in a joiner's shop situated at
the North End, which it entirely consumed. On December 17 of this year
fire was set by some person to a house belonging to the town, located on Fort
Hill, and was soon destroyed. Messrs. Savell and Cowdre}- were detailed to
find the incendiary, also to look after the timber taken from the premises ; but
the author of the crime remained undiscovered.
Benjamin Snelling, of Engine Company No. 1, having died, Francis Mar-
shall was admitted in his place.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 47
CHAPTER ly.
1740-175U.
THE men who engaged in this department received no recompense for their
labors until March 10, 1739-40, when their work was remunerated by a
premium offered by the town to the most vigilant ; the order is entered as
follows : —
That for the encouragement of the respective companies belonging to the several Fire
Engines in this town and to stimulate them to their duty in extinguishing of Fires, as they
may be occasion, There be and hereby is allowed to be payed out of the town Treasury
the sum of Five Pounds to the company of such Fire Engine as shall first be brought to
work upon any house or building that shall be on fire.
This custom was continued until the paid department was organized.
The firewards, since their appointment, do not appear to have been very
busy, as there were but four fires of trifling importance, while no account is re-
corded of au}'^ difficulties regarding gunpowder until March 26, 1739—40, when
William Salter, the keeper of the powder-house on the Common, informed the
selectmen that they had seized six half -barrels of powder from Obediah
Cookson, Jr., and three half -barrels in the house of John Carnes, which is the
first seizure of this article recorded.
As the members of the engine companies had been excused from military
duty, William Greenleaf , a fireward, thought it proper that these officials should
be granted the same privileges ; therefore made a motion at a meeting March
9 to that effect, but it failed. On the same date an addition of two men to
each engine company was made, also an order that an axe and hook be carried
by each company.
Engine No. 1 was the largest apparatus in the town ; it had a company of
seventeen members, while the next in size had but fifteen ; it was called at
times by the town clerk in his records the " Great Fire Engine." On April 9,
1740, the captain makes application for a longer drag-chain to accommodate
the number who run with it.
Gibbins Sharp was admitted a member of Engine No. 2, April 16, vice
Thomas Litton. On the 30th, the first premium for attendance at a fire was
granted to Engine No. 1, for a fire at Mrs. Rawlins', which occurred the week
previous. Engine No. 2 was not far behind, as a fire broke out at the house
of Mr. Holyoke the same day, and it was awarded the prize for first at-
tendance.
The small Engine No. 3 must have been lodged in rather bad quarters
48 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
at the North Meeting-house, as the captain makes complaint to the selectmen,
on May 14, that the house was rotten and unfit for use, and asked that they
may have another. On the 4th of the following month Stephen Greenleaf
was admitted a member of Engine No. 9, vice John Taylor, who resigned to
take charge of the work-house.
During May, 1740, seven houses were destroyed by fire at the new town-
ship, granted a few years previous to a number of inhabitants of this town,
called New Boston (West End). The accident originated from fire in the
woods. All the engines, as we have mentioned, were stationed in the southern
and northern part of the town, which was the most thickly populated. But
West Boston gradually grew in the number of people and buildings, which,
as a matter of course, occasioned the calling of the engines to that section to
quench fire. A petition was, therefore, on May 7, immediately after the above
conflagration, presented to the selectmen, asking for an engine in their quar-
ter ; but it was some time before their request could be complied with, as we
find an entry on the year following, appointing a committee to confer with
Jonas Clark concerning an engine which he had for sale, and which was pur-
chased on November 11, 1740, for £130.
August 25, Engine No. 4 obtained the premium of £5 for a fire near the
Mill bridge. Mr. Savill was instructed, on October 8, to wait on the foreman
of each company and obtain a list of their members, to which list the select-
men referred when a jury was panelled, so that they knew whom to excuse.
This is the first mention of the exemption of the firemen from jury duty that
IS made, and could not have been approved b}^ the Court, as a bill did not pass
that body to that effect until years after. On the 29th John and Henry
Newell succeeded Newman Greenough and John Waters on Engine No. 3.
Captain Underwood also made a change on Engine No. l,by the appointment
of Timothy Brown and Oliver Luckis, Jr., in the place of R. Kent and James
Harley.
The new engine ordered for the "West End was procui-ed in January, 1740-
41 ; on the 7th of the month John Pierce was appointed foreman, with nine
men : Samuel Sprague, Ebenezer Messiuger, Thomas Crafts, John Brown,
William Russell, Samuel Emmes, Thomas Kimball, Richard Surcomb, and
Thomas Barnard. It was placed in a house on Hancock street, and called
the West Boston Engine ; but later on it was named Hero No. 6.
Samuel Brown was appointed a member of Captain Earle's company, vice
Jer. Cushing, on the 21st. -The firewards' office appears to have been an un-
important one, as the vacancies occasioned by death, etc., had been left unfilled
for a considerable period ; on February 6, however, Mr. Henry Berrj', Capt.
Benjamin Pollard, and Mr. John Carnes were appointed by the trustees and
selectmen, in the place of S. Minot, E. Tyler, and J. Lee.
Captain Earle obtains the premium for working at the fire of March 12,
on Love street (Tileston street). Two changes were made in Engine No. 9.
On April 8, William Wheeler, Jr., was again admitted, and Jonathan Chandler
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 49
took the place of A. Davis. The old engine of Captain Earle at the New
North Meeting-house had to have a new axle-tree and wheels on the 15th,
they being very badly worn ; the spear was also broken, and had to be re-
placed. Eleazer Newell is admitted on Captain Underwood's company, vice
Thomas Newell, deceased. At the same date Captain Ward had a new hose
added to his engine.
A fire at the rope-walk of Mr. Box in the West End during June brought
the* new Engine No. 6 first on the scene. Captain Underwood was obliged to
resign his position as master of Engine No. 1 on June 10, on account of infirmi-
ties. He was succeeded by John Brown, who made a few changes in the
company; viz., Edward Edes, Daniel Barker, Benjamin Luckis, and Ebene-
zer Brown admitted, vice J. Townsend, R. Kent, T. Barrett, J. Lowe, T. Kel-
ling, and R. Morgan,
A fire occurred on January 30, 1741-42, at Mr. Deacon's work-house, by
which Engine No. 7 received the premium. Two days later the selectmen
complained of the department as not carrying out their order requiring the
carrying of fire-hooks, which they found to be of excellent service ; also an axe,
which was to be marked with the letter " B" on the eye. Two extra men were
then added to each company for that purpose, whom the foremen were to se-
lect and send their names in on the following Wednesday. Jonathan Simpson,
Henry Allen, and William Beairsto were admitted on Captain Howell's com-
pany, March 29, and on April 26 the new lists of all the companies were
handed in for approval. In the orders issued to the department the following
clause was added : —
And that at all fires tl;iey bring with them an axe and Fire Hook and commit the same
to the charge of two of their company who shall be appointed to manage the same by the
selectmen, and in case either the hook or the axe be not brought they are not to be entitled
to the bounty of five pounds as by the Town vote.
Mr. Jonathan Salter was appointed foreman of the engine under the
Town-House, No. 5, in the place of Captain Reed, who desired to be excused,
on March 29, 1742. The engine was called " Marlborough," after the street
on which it stood, as this was then the name of that section of Washington
street.
His company made the following changes, which are the first recorded
since it was organized : Anthony Bracket, Samuel Hallowell, John Foster, Jr.,
John Wise, Ebenezer Knap, Brackley Read, Edward Potter, Jr., and Thomas
Palfrey, vice Thomas Flagg, Duncan, T. P. Cooper, B. Allen, T. Goodwin,
and S. Hastings.
Engine Company, No. 1, admitted William Edes and John Ballard. In
Captain Earle's company, Nathan Brown rejoined, and John Thwing and
Thomas Lawlor are added, vice T. Rerson, Jr., William Haley, and T. Litton.
On Engine Company, No. 3, Elias Robinson, William Richards, William
50 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Burbank, and Nathaniel Woodward were admitted, vice J. Robert, J. Peai'-
son, H. Baker.
Another set of by-laws regarding chimney-sweeping was prepared .on
May 11, 1742, by which the rate of sweeping was reduced, as follows : Each
chimney five stories high, ninepence ; four stories, eightpence ; three stories,
sixpence ; common chimneys, sixpence ; and kitchen chimneys to cor-
respond.
July 2, Captain Steele was ordered to procure three new leather buckets
for Engine No. 1. A fire is recorded on September 16, which broke out at
Fort Hill. On Tuesday, the 19th, about 12 o'clock, fire originated in a new
building on Ann street (North street) , owned by Mr. Sampson Salter, which was
being fitted up for a tenement-house. Being of wood, and setting back from
the street, near the Mill creek, the passage-way leading thereto was so narrow
that the fire apparatus had difficulty in reaching it. One of the engines,
however, was put in a boat in the creek, and landed at a small wharf in the
rear of the house, where, with plenty of water, it did most excellent work,
and the flames were soon extinguished. Engine No. 4 was first on hand at
the fire on that day. On November 29, Captain Peirce claimed the prize for
the fire at the distil-house of Mr. Sigourney at the AVest End.
Jonathan Brown was admitted a member of Engine No. 1 on January
12, 1742-43, and on February 16 John Seaborn and Abraham Belknap joined
Engine No. 6, which made up their full equipment. On the 28th, premiums
were awarded to Captain Uran for the fire at the M.ill bridge, and Captain
Peirce for that which occurred near the Orange Tree (a tavern at the corner
of Tremont and Hanover streets).
Abraham Hallai-d was admitted on Captain Salter's company March 23,
vice John Wise. May 2, the Engines Nos. 1 and 6, under the command of
Captains Peirce and Brown, then known as the West and North Engines, were
ordered to be repaired. William Perkins succeeded R. Price on Captain Salter's
company on the 30th. This foreman was also awarded the premium for the
fire at the house of Captain Davis, on School street. The fire-buckets be-
longing to the department were used very carelessly by some of the citizens
who rendered assistance by passing them to and from the engines, and a motion
was passed that some means be taken to prevent their loss and destruction.
Ralph Waldo desiring to fill some casks with water, on July 27, saw the ad-
vantage to be gained by the use of the engine-hose, which on his application
was allowed him, provided an engineman superintend the job and he pay for
damages.
Marlborough Engine, No. 5, has another change in its foreman, on October
5, when Thomas Read is promoted to that position, in the room of Captain
Salter. William Potter and Joseph Baxter were also added to the company.
This foreman was awarded on the same day the prize for attending the fire at
the rope-walk of Mr. Keightly.
The house of the " North Copper Engine," as Engine No. 2 was termed,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 51
was repaired on November 9, and had facilities added that would accommodate
the storage of a fire-hook.
Captain Peirce having left town, was succeeded in command of the West
Engine, No. 9, on December 21, by Ebenezer Messenger; he made only two
changes in the membership, — that of John Box and Robert Thompson, Jr.,
vice T. Kimball and Captain Peirce.
Captain Sutton applied, December 26, for the premium for the fire at
Captain EUery's house.
On February 8, 1743—44, Captain Earl was awarded for the fire in Charter
street (now North street).
About 2 o'clock, P.M., on Thursday, March 1, fire broke out in the malt-
house of Mr. Jacob Sheaf e, located at the South End, which was entirely
destroyed, together with a large quantity of stock. The wind blowing very
strong from the north-west, carried sparks a very long distance, and set fire to
the barn belonging to Mr. Dwight, at the White Horse Tavern (where Haj'ward
place now is), which was burnt to the ground. The tavern and several other
houses in the neighborhood were on fire several times, but the efforts of the
department, assisted by the citizens, prevented further-damage. A subscription
was taken up for the sufferers. The next day anotlier fire started in a house
of Hon. Samuel Welles, Esq., but was soon put out. Three days later the
new meeting-house at Roxbury was burnt. Captain Brown was awarded on
the 7th for a fire at the house of Mr. Hawks, near the Old South Church.
Captain Messenger, of Engine No. 6, had three additions made to his company
on the 21st, by the appointment of Thomas Kimball, John Ricks, and Peter
Cumber. Captain Brown applied for the premium on the 26th for the fire
at Dr. Kennedy's house.
On the 28th a change in the location of three of the engines was ordered.
The small Engine No. 3, at the Old North Church, under Captain Baker,
was removed to the Rev. Mr. Mather's meeting-house (Mr. Mather had been
minister in the Old North Church for some time, but in October, 1741, he
obtained his resignation, and had built the church which took his name, at
the corner of North Beunet and Hanover streets, to which place the engine
followed him). As the trustees of the Trinity Church had requested the
removal of the Summer-street Engine, No. 9, for some time previous, the
selectmen had only now succeeded in obtaining a site in which to lodge
the apparatus ; this was in the building occupied by Mr. Lowders ; but they
again failed, and it was eventually lodged on the town's land on Essex street,
occupied by Mr. Solomon Kneeland. The old Prison Engine, No. 7, the first
in the town, was removed from its old stand in Court street to a shed in the
rear of the Old South Church (Milk street).
Captain Baker was given the prize on April 18 for the fire on the 13th
at the house of Geoi'ge Skinner. The same company makes a change of one
of its members on the 24th, — Zephaniah Basset joins Captain Sutton's com-
pany, and is succeeded by Edward Richardson, Jr. Captain Sutton has four
52 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
new members beside the one recorded above ; namely, John Lane, Jr., Thomas
Walker, Regnell Odell, and John Blowers.
Captain Sutton was succeeded by Stephen Willis shortly after, but at
what time the records do not state. On the brass tablet of the foreman
of this company, on page 30, Willis is credited with taking charge in 1743
and remaining four years ; but the above would show that Sutton still held
command as late as April 18, 1744, and as Willis died July 8, 1747, being
succeeded by John Blower, he only held the position of foreman of this com-
pany a little over thi*ee years
The General Court, during the year, passed the following act, whereby
additional duties were placed on the Board of Fire wards : —
And the Fire wards aforementioned are hereby required, upon notice of the breaking
forth of Fires, taking with them their badges respectively, immediately to repair to tbe
Place and vigorously exert themselves in requiring and procuring assistance to extinguish
and prevent the spreading of the fire, and .for the pulling down or blowing up any bouses,
or any other service relating thereto, as they may be directed by two or three of the chief
civil or military officers of the town, to put a Stop to the fire, and in removing household
stuff, goods, and merchandize, out of any dwelling-houses, store-houses or other buildings
actually on fire, or in danger thereof, in appointing guards to secure and take care of the
same, and to suppress all tumults and disorders, and due obedience is required to bej'ielded
to them and each of them accordingly for that service.
Captain Earle's engine was ordered to be repaired on July 20, and on
August 15 Engine No. 5 was in the hands of the repairer. John Belcher,
of Engine No. 2, being dead, Jedediah Lincoln is appointed in his place,
October 3. This company was awarded the next premium for a fire
at Bronsdon's wharf during the same month. Captain Baker gets the next
award, on December 12, for a fire near Copp's Hill. The fire at Colonel
Pollard's house on February 24,1744—45, was attended first by Captain Read's
company, while Engine No. 9 obtains the award for the fire at Mr. David
Colson's buildings at the South End during the same month. This last fire was
one of considerable damage. It broke out between 5 and 6 o'clock on the
morning of February 11, in the leather-dressing establishment occupied by
Mr. Colson, and communicated to several other buildings of his, which were
entirely destroyed. Other buildings in the neighborhood were damaged, the
total loss amounting to several thousand pounds.
Messrs. Belknap, Ricks, Keraball. Surcomb, and Seaborn left the service
of Engine No. 6 on April 3, and Edmund Barrett and Ebenezer Messenger,
Jr., are appointed, and on May 1 John Clough is enrolled on -Engine No. 1,
vice AYilliam Marshall. Another member is added to Engine No. 6, June 19 ;
viz., Jonathan A. Fifield. July 29, Captain Brown received the award for
the fire at Mr. Rawling's house that occurred two months previous.
The first general election of firewards, since the creation of that office,
did not occur until March 10, 1745-46, when the following were chosen:
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 53
Isaac White, Robert Breck, Joliu Carues, Johu Scolley, Joseph Jackson, Col.
Robert Berr}', Col. Robert Pollard, Col. John Hill, and Capt. William Salter ;
but Colonel Pollard declining, Capt. John Russell was elected.
Again the West Engine, No. 6, has a new foreman ; this time Captain
Messenger gives place, on March 19, 1745-46, to Samuel Sprague, one of the
old members ; but Messenger does not resign his membership. Sprague adds
an almost entirely new company, only one of the original members (J.
Brown) being left. The new men are Daniel Ballard, Jabez Searl, Joseph
Badger, Brignell Odell, Stephen Morine, John Ricks, and Benjamin Hitch,
who succeeded T. Crafts, W. Russell, S. Emms, T. Kimball, T. Barnard, J.
Box, R. Thompson, Jr., E. Barrett, and J. A. Fifield.
The returns for the choice of firewards for the year 1746-47 showed that
John Phillips and James Day were elected, vice William Salter, the additional
member completing the number, as required by law.
E. Messenger, former captain of Engine No. 6, over whom Sprague was
promoted, was again installed in his old position on April 1, 1747, Sprague
having moved to Louisburg. Nicholas Gray was then admitted a member,
and on the 8th John Bowden and George Eustus were enlisted. Messenger
did not continue long in the company, however, as he moved out of town on
November 4. John Brown, the only one left among the original members,
was promoted to fill the vacancy.
On the 9th Boston was again the scene of quite an extensive conflagra-
tion. This time the old Town- House fell a prey to the flames. In this fire
many valuable records and papers were lost. We reprint the account of the
fire contained in the Boston weekly "News Letter," of Thursday, December
10, 1747: —
Yesterday morning between six and seven we were exceedingl}' surprised by a Fire
■which broke out at the Court House, in this Town, whereby that spacious and beautiful
building, except the bare outward walls, was entirely destroyed. As the fire began in the
middle or Second Story, tlie Records, Books, Papers, Furniture, Pictures of the Kings
and Queens, &c. , which were in the Council Chamber, the Chamber of the House of
Representatives and the Apartments thereof, in that story, were consumed; as were also
tlie Books and Papers in the office of the upper story; Those in the offices below were
mostly saved. In the cellars, which were hired by several persons, a great quantity of
"Wines and Liquors were lost. The Public Damage sustained by the sad disaster is inex-
pr^ssably great and the loss to some particular persons 't is said will amount to severall
thousands pounds. The Vehemence of the Flames occationed such a great Heat as to set
the Roofs of some of the opposite Houses on Fire notwithstanding they had been covered
with snow, and it was extinguished with great difficulty. How the Fire was occationed
whether by Defect in the chimney or Hearth as some think is uncertain.
The Boston " livening Post," on the 14th of the month, adds : —
The fine Pictures and other Furniture in the council chamber were destroyed as were
also the Books Papers and Records in both the Lobbies, and those in the offices kept in
the upper story; but the County Records and Papers belonging to the Inferiour Court,
being deposited in a office upon the lower Floor, were most of them preserved.
54 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The same paper printed the following extract from the " Journal of the
House of Representatives : " —
12 December A.D., 1747.
Upon a motion made and seconded, Resolved, that the House now make particular
Enquiry how the late Fire in the Court House was first discovered, and by what Means it
was occationed. After examining the Door Keeper and Receiving a particular account of
the Fire and circumstances of his leaving the House, the Evening before, and enquiring of
those Gentlemen who early discovered the Fire, Resolved, That it appears to the satisfac-
tion of this House, that the late Fire which consumed the Court House proceeded from
the woodwork under the Hearth taking Fire, and that the Fire first broke out in the entry-
way between the Council Chamber and the Representatives Room, and from thence went
up the Stair Case and through the Roof, and continued until the House was consumed.
The old engine stationed in the cellar of the House was saved, and sta-
tioned at the dock while the building was being i-ebuilt. A man by the name
of Clough was ordered to give his assistance in extinguisliing the fii'e by
Joseph Jackson, a fireman, but refused, whereupon he was fined 20s. This
was the first fine for any offence of this kind recorded. The walls were
left by the flames standing in a very dangerous condition, and the Court issued
an order to have them secured.
The Court being in session at the time of the fire, they were left without
a place of meeting, but were offered the use of Faneuil Hall ; the Royal Ex-
change Tavern, kept by Luke ^^ardy, on King street, was more to their taste,
however, and was used during the four days the session continued. When
they again met in February, a motion was made to have the next Court-House
built at Cambridge ; but this failing, as did another to locate it at Roxbury,
it was finally determined that the old one should be repaired.
The South Engine, No. 9, was again moved from the land belonging to
the town to a building erected on the land owned by Hon. John Jeffries (the
site of the Albion Building, corner of Tremont and Beacon streets).
Captain Brown, of Engine 1, after a service of seven years in the depart-
ment, died on June 22, 1748. He was succeeded by Thomas Bentley, the
last one of the original members of the company. In the reorganization of
the company, J. Stephens, J. Dowell, J. Beares, and J. Wakefield were dis-
charged ; they were succeeded by Richard Gooding, John Brown, John Rich-
ardson, and Samuel Bickner.
Captain Brown, of the Prison Engine, No. 7, made a considerable
change in the list of members when forming his company, October 31, 1748 ;
of the original company, only one, J. Young, remained. Perry Sprague,
Reine, Ivers, Newell, S. Parker Roe, Cocks, Beri-y, Newell, Wear, Walker,
Odell, and Blowes were dismissed, and Samuel Bracket, Thomas Crafts,
Jacob Cheney, Peter Roberts, Stephen Greenleafe, John Ridgaway, AYilliam
Russell, William Frost, Thomas Brice, James Buck, John Glen, and Walter
Motley were appointed.
A large fire occurred on October 22 in Purchase street.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 55
The laud on which Engine No. 2 was housed was owned by Governor
Hutchinson, and having use for the same, he requested the selectmen, on
February 15, 1748-49, to immediately remove the engine. This request
was repeated on May 24, but no action was taken in the matter, although
Captain Earle could obtain accommodation in a building near Mr. Webb's
church.
The South Engine, under the charge of Captain Howell, did not long
remain at the house on Tremont street, if indeed it was ever removed there :
as when John Beaudry was promoted foreman in the place of Howell, on
October 25, 1749, the records mention it as being now kept on the land
belonging to the town (sic) taken in execution of Mr. Samuel Kneeland.
Captain Earle — with one exception the only foreman remaining who
was appointed when the department was organized — died January 27, 1749-
50 ; he was succeeded by Nathaniel Brown. Martin Grey was admitted a
member on the same date.
Engine No. 5 was at this time replaced in its old stand under the Town-
House. A platform and all necessary repairs were then made.
Major Nathaniel Thwing and Mr. Royal Tyler were chosen firewards
during 1750-51.
Captain Blower did not long remain in the service of the Prison Engine.
He sent in his resignation on February 7, and was succeeded by Gershorm
Flagg. On September 19, 1750, Samuel Treat is admitted on Captain Bent-
ley's company, vice Doubledee, deceased, and on October 5 John Prince joins
Engine No. 6 ; the same date Ebenezer Topliff is enrolled on Engine No. 9.
At a town-meeting held March ll, 1750-51, a vote was passed by the
town whereby their representatives at the General Court be desired to use
their best endeavors to have a law passed by which the number of firewards
could be increased, if it be so desired, over the number now allowed ; which
resulted, at the next session, held in 1752, in the passage of the following-
Jaw : —
Whereby from experience the Firewards who have been annually chosen by the Town
of Boston have been found to be of great use and service to the said town at times of fires,
and it is apprehended it would greatly serve tlie said Town if tlieir number were increased.
. . . Choose twelve Fire-wards who shall do the duty and be invested with the like
powers and privileges as firewards in and by the said act are invested withal.
Messrs. Isaac Freeman, John Tudor, Thomas Jackson, and Newman
Greenough were elected, ms^king twelve firewards for 1752.
The last representative of the original appointment of foreman of the
•engines, Capt. Josiah Baker, resigns his position on Engine No. 3, on
January 15, 1752-53, after a service of eighteen years. He was succeeded
by Joseph Glidden, who made the following changes in the membership :
John Robinson, James Barnard, "William Page, and Caleb Hacker were
admitted, while Pousley and W. Richards were dismissed.
56 HISTORY OF boston' FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The town had been quite free from fires during ^the past four or five
years; in fact none are recorded since October 22, 1748, although there may
have been some of minor importance. On February 7, 1753, the alarm was
g'iven during a dark and rainy night for a fire in an out- house on Marlborough
street (part of Washington street). Although all the engines were called out
and quickly on the scene, the flames spread to a stable near by, and before
got under control another stable, Mr. Sellon's blacksmith shop, the dwellings
of Dr. John Cutler and Dr. Edward Ellis, were left in ruins. Several people
were injured by the falling of brick walls, but no lives were lost.
The growth of the southerly part of the town in population, and increase
in number of buildings erected, rendered it necessary for the inhabitants to
have better facilities in case of fire. They, therefore, on March 5, 1753,. pre-
sented a petition to the town, praying that a suitable fire-engine be stationed
in that part of the town.
Captain Hopestill Foster was chosen on the Board of Firewards for 1753,
vice Captain Berry, resigned; and on the following year Captain Thomas J.
Gruchy, Mr. Joseph Jackson, and Captain Solomon Davis were elected, vice
Carnes, Freeman, and Tudor.
The engine was not placed in the building near the Old South Church
until after July 22, 1754, as a record is made on that date that a building be
erected for its accommodation, by the sanction of the committee of that
church, of the following dimensions : Twenty-four feet in length, eight feet
wide, and eight feet high.
For the year 1755 the choice of firewards was as follows: John Rowe
and William Cooper, vice Davis and T. Jackson, Jr. ; and in the year fol-
lowing Col. N. Thwing was excused, and Capt. Thomas Savage, Mr. Joseph
Jackson, and Nathaniel W. AVheelwright were elected, vice Gerchy and
Truckman.
The matters relating to the department did not claim any entries in the
town records during the past two years, or were there any fires noted.
A Dutch ship, wrecked on this coast about this time, had on board a
copper water-engine, which was saved and purchased by the town. A com-
pany was formed, consisting of twelve men, with James Cunningham as fore-
man, and stationed at the North End, as the citizens had petitioned, in a
building on Newbury street (Washington street). It was subsequently called
Cumberland, No. 8.
A terrible fire happened on January 13, 1756. It originated in a house
on Hanover street, at the corner of Cold Lane (Portland street) , and soon
destroyed several tenement-houses adjoining. So rapid was the spread of the
flames, that the occupants had hardly time to escape with their lives ; one old
lady, lodged in an upper room in the building where the fire started, was burnt
to death, her remains being afterward discovered. A large amount of furni-
ture, plate, and other household goods were destroyed.
The records are revived during 1756, beginning with May 31, when
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 57
Daniel Baker is admitted a member of Captain Bentley' s company. On
June 2 Captain Glidden is awarded premiums for several fires that had
occurred during the past year.
During the interval mentioned. Captain Flagg was succeeded in the com-
mand of the Prison Engine by William Sutton, which appointment occurred
some time during 1753, but as to tlie exact date we have no authentic record.
Bartholomew Sutton, Jr., and John Lauton admitted in this company in the
room of B. Stevens and T. Reck. A fire occurred during this month at the
residence of Mr. John Welche, for which Captain Putnam of the Dock Engine
was awarded the premium. Putnam was appointed to succeed Captain Uran
of this company some time during 1755. On October 6 Jonathan Brown, Jr.,
was admitted in Captain Beutley's company, in the place of his father.
Joseph Eliot was admitted a member of Engine No. 8, vice Nathaniel
Wales, and on March 10, 1756-57, this companj^ won the award for a fire at
Thomas Spears'.
The election of firewards for 1757 resulted in the choice of Thomas
riucker in the place of J. Hill.
Chimney-sweeps came in for a reduction of rates this year, they being
allowed for each chimney five stories high 1 shilling and 4 pence ; four stories,
1 shilling and 2 pence ; three stories, 1 shilling ; all others, 8 pence ; kitchen
chimneys at proportionable rates.
Joseph True succeeded Richard True on August 31 on Engine No. 3, and
Joseph Peirce was admitted in the place of William Vane in the same company
on December 26. No change was made in the choice of the Board of Fire-
wards for the year 1758. Capt. John Brown, of the West End Engine,
No. 6, or " New Boston," as it was sometimes called, was awarded, on March
22, the premium for a fire at that quarter of the town. On the same date
the Governor excused one hundred men of the town from military duties, to
man the engines, which were then numbeied for the first time. By advice of
the selectmen and the several foremen the men were placed as follows : —
Captain Bentley's, or the North End Engine, near the Old North Meet-
ing-house, North square. Old North, No. 1, was allowed fourteen men. The
changes being Thomas Marble, Alexander Scannell, and Joshua Bentley, vice
E. Edes, Clark, Stone, Luckis, Jr., B. Luckis, Barker, Gooding, and Bickner.
Capt. N. Brown, old Copper Engine, by New North Meeting-house,
Congress, No. 2, nine men : William Brown, John Bovey, and Thomas Atkins,
vice Attwood, Denaresq, Clark, Newell, Howell, J. Thwing, Lawler, Lincoln,
and J. True.
Capt. Elias Robinson succeeded Captain Glidden in command of the
engine at the North Meeting-house, Washington, No. 3, with eight rnen. All
of the company were old members, with the exception of Webb Pearson and
Jonathan Jenkins.
Captain Putnam, of the Dock Engine Endeavor, No. 4, ten men ;
an entirely new list : Joseph Bradford, Giles Brewer, Thomas Urann, Isaiah
58 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Andbert, Benjamin Loring, Benjamin Proctor, Richard Stoper, Paul Baxter,
and John Perkins.
Capt. Thomas Read, Marlborough Engine, No. 5, under the Town-House,
eleven men. Of these, only four of the old members are left, — Palfrey,
Holland, Baxter, and Read. The new appointments are Samuel Hallowell,
Thomas Salter, John Peck, D. Wing, Thomas Read, Jr., and James Read, Jr.
Capt. J. Brown, West Boston, Engine Hero, No. 6, on Hancock street,
ten men, two of whom are old members, — Cumber and Serl ; the otliers are
John Hopkins, Nicholas Tabb, Josiah Gains, Robert Bonynge, James Ridgway,
Jr., William Homer, and Michial Homer.
Captain Sutton's Prison Engine, New York, No. 7, then near the Old
South Church, thirteen men, five being left from the old list, — William Frost,
G. Bassett, P. Roberts, B. Sutton, Jr., and J. Laughton. The new members
are Garven Brown, I. Tuckerman, Adino Paddock, William Flagg, Jonathan
Rogers, John Bulfiuch, and James Cook.
Capt. J. Cunningham, Cumberland, No. 8, Newbury street, eleven men.
J. Stimpson is the only one left out of the old staff. The others were David
Wheeler, Ephraim Greens, Benjamin Wheeler, Henry Evans, Obadiah Curtiss,
Moses Bastow, John Bennett, Samuel Wheeler, and Joseph Eliot.
Solomon Kneeland was appointed foreman of the South Engine Despatch,
No. 9, vice Captain Beaudry, and had fourteen men, — Stephen Greenleaf , John
Stimpson, Samuel Franklyn, John Mellege, Eben Topliff, Joseph Wheeler,
Samuel Harris, John Fenno, Thomas Greenleaf, Thomas Wheeler, Stephen
A\^ales, Richard Honeywell, and John Halding.
This company was awarded the prize on April 26 for a fire at Deacon
Hill's distil-house, at the South End. On the same date Capt. J. Brown's
Engine No. 6 was complained of as being so badly out of order as to be in-
capable of working. An order was therefore issued to have it repaired. On
May 10 a fire occurred at the distil-house of Mr. Coffin, near Essex street, for
which Engine No. 8 received the prize. The entire department were sup-
plied with new buckets on Jul}'^ 12.
The first premium awarded for the year 1759 was given to Engine No. 9
for the fire at Mr. Johnson's house. Only two changes occurred in the Board
of Firewards for this year. Capt. Solomon Davis and Mr. Samuel Austin
were appointed in the place of Wheelwright and Savage.
April 11, Engine-house No. 4, at the dock, was repaired. A fire at
Widow Sears', on Charter street, during this month consumed her house
and barn. Engine 1 was the first to get water. While on the last of the
month, Thomas Walkes' house, near the almshouse, was burnt, and Engine 7
received the money. The other fires and awards during the year were as
follows : —
May 15,^Rears' bakehouse, near Mill creek. Engine 4. May 30, Timothy
Fitch's house, West End, Engine 6. June 25, a dispute arose between Engines
S and 9 about a premium, which was decided in favor of No. 8. August 27,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 59
Engine 2, for a Are at the warehouse of Foster Hutchinson, that occurred on
June 28.
The largest fire that occurred in the town for several years past brolce
out on November 14, in a wooden building south of Oliver's bridge, at Oliver's
dock. It swept everything as far as the lower end of Water and Milk
streets to Hallowell's ship-yard, burning for more than two hours, during
which time Governor Powell was present, and encouraged the firemen and
others who were assisting in extinguishing the flames, while those who had
property destroyed received his earnest sympathy. The next day the fol-
lowing motion was carried at the town-meeting : —
By the fire that broke out yesterday at Oliver's Dock many persons were reduced
from a comfortable state to absolute want and poverty, and who need some immediate
relief. Tliat a letter be written to the ministers of the respective churches in the town
desiring them to recommend it to their several churches to make a collection for the relief
of such sufferers by the late Fire as may need it. That money be paid into the hands
of Thos. Hancock, Thos. Hubbard, Jos. Dawes, Sam'l Grant, John Phillips, Malaliah
Bounn, and Dr. G. S. Gardner, to be by them distributed to the sufferers in proportion to
their late losses & their present necessities.
The last fire of the year occurred at a house near Copp's Hill, some time
during December. Engine 2 was given the award.
60 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTEK Y.
1760-1763.
THE month of March, 1760, is one that will be memorable for the largest
fires that had occurred in New England, and which placed the great fire
of 1711 in small comparison. The first of the sei'ies occurred about noon, on
Monday, March 17, when a joiner's shop at West Boston took fire, and soon
communicated to a large house adjoining. The entire department was
quickly called out, but the very strong wind blowing from the north-east
scattered the flames, so that before it was under control several other build-
ings in the vicinity were badly damaged. The roof of the West Meeting-house
(near the corner of Lynde and Cambridge streets) took fire in several places,
but after a severe struggle it was saved.
About one hour earlier on the following day the town was again alarmed
by the cry of fire. This time the scene of destruction occurred in a building
at the upper end of James Griffin's wharf (now Liverpool) . The upper part
of this house, where the fire originated, was occupied by a detachment of the
Royal Artillery as a laboratory. It soon communicated to a quantity of
powder, which blew up the building, resulting in wounding four or five men.
One or two grenades and some small-arms exploded, the concussion from
which being so great that a shock was felt over the town.
Besides Mr. Griffin's loss, which was very large, — having a quantit}^ of
merchandise stored in the lower stories, — a carpenter-shop in the lower part
of the store and a blacksmith-shop near the other end of the wharf were on
fire, the former being entirely destroyed. Had not the tides been high, thus
providing a bountiful water-supply, the principal military stores located at
the end of the wharf would have been consumed.
But these were as nothing to the scene to be witnessed on the 20th, when
the great fire occurred. Regarding this conflagration, an account was written
by the celebrated fireward and town clerk, William Cooper, which we copy
from the Boston "Post Boy," issued March 24, 1760: —
But the 20 of March will be a day memorable for the most terrible Fire that has hap-
pened in the town or perhaps in any other part of North America; far exceeding that of
Oct. 2, 1711, till now termed the Great Fire. It began about Two o'clock in the Morning
in the Dwelling House of Mrs. Mary Jackson antl Son, at the Brazen Head in Cornhill
[Washington street, nearly opposite Williams court] but the Accident which occasioned it
is yet uncertain. The flames catched the House adjoining in the front of the St. and burnt
three or four large buildings ; a Stop was put to it there at the house of Mrs. West on the
South, and Mr Peter Cotta on the North, but the Fire raged most violently toward the
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 61
East. All the Stores fronting Pudding Lane [Devonshire street] together with every Dwell-
ing House, from thence Excepting those which front the South side of King-St. and a Store
of Mr Spooner's on Water St. to Quaker-Lane [Congress street] and from thence only leaving
a large wooden House and the House belonging to the late Cornelius Waldo, it Burnt every
House, Shop Store, out-House &c. to Oliver's Dock. And an Eddy of wind carrying the
Fire contrary to its Course, it took the Building fronting the lower Part of King St. and
destroyed the Houses from the Corner opposite the Bunch of Grapes Tavern [in State street,
just below the Old State-House] to the Ware house of Mess'^ Box and Austin, leaving only
the warehouse of the Hon. John Erwing and Dwelling House of Mr Hastings, standing.
The other Brick warehouse was damaged. The fire extended from Mr Torreys the
Baker in Water st. and damaging some of Mr. Daltous new shops, proceeding Mr Halls
working house from there to Milk st. and consumed every house from there to Mr Calef's
Dwelling house [in Milk street, corner of Congress, afterwards the famous Julien's restau-
rant, which stood until July, 1824] to the bottom of the street, and the opposite way, from
Mr Dawes's included it carried every house from Fort Hill except the Hon Secretary
Olivers and two or three Tenements along Mr. Hallowell's Shipyard his dwelling House the
Sconce of the South-Battery all the Shops and Stores on Col. Wendell's wharf, and two or
three Ships and a Schooner were burnt one laden with wood and another with considerable
value. It consumed near 400 Dwellings Houses, Stores Shops Shipping &c. together with
Goods and Merchandizes of almost every kind to an incredible Value ; but it is not ease to
describe the Terror of that Fatal morning. The alarm was great and an Explosion of some
powder soon followed which was seen and felt to a great Distance. The chief part had been
removed by some hardy adventurers, just before the Explosion, the same time cinders and
Flakes of fire were seen flying over that Quarter, where was reposited the remainder of the
artillery stores, and combustibles which was preserved from taking fire. The people in this
and the neighboring towns exerted themselves to an uncommon Degree and were encouraged
by the Presence and example of the Greatest Personage amongst us, but the haughty
Flames triumphed over our Engine — our Art — and our numbers. The distressed In-
habitants of those Buildings now wrapped m Fire scarce knew where to take refuge from
the devouring flames ; The Loss of Interest cannot as yet be ascertained or who have
sustained the greatest, it is said that the damage which only one man has received cannot
be made good with £2000 Sterling it is in general to great to be made in any measure by
the other Inhabitants exhausted as we have been by the great Proportion this Town has
borne the extraordinary Expence of the War and by a demand upon our charity to relieve
a number of sufferers, and without the compassionate assistance of our Christian Friends
abroad, distress and ruin may overwhelm the greatest Part of them.
In the midst of our Distress we have great cause for Thanksgiving, that notwith-
standing the rage of the fire, the explosion at the Small Battery, and the falling of the
walls, and chimneys, Devine Providence, who so mercifull ordered it not one life has been
lost and few wounded.
The following are a list of names of the sufferers whose houses were consumed, sev-
eral widows and a few others are omitted : —
Cornhill [Washington street] ; Mrs. Mary Jackson & Son, Widow McNeal, Mr. Jona-
than Mason, Mrs. Quick.
•Pudding Lane [Devonshire street] ; Wm. Fairfield, Rogers, John Sterling,
George Glen, James Steward, Widow Marshal, Edmond Dolbear.
Upper part of Water street; Henry Laugliton, jun., Mrs. Grice, an empty House of
Mr. Caznean, William Palfrey, Joseph Richardson, Dinley Wing, Benj" Jeffries, John
Durant, Mr. Lawson, and a large curriers shop.
Quaker Lane [Congress street] ; Wm. Hyslop, S. Salter, with a Brew-house, Robt.
Jarvis, Dan Ray and Friends Meeting House.
Towards Olivers Docks; Daniel Spear, Thos. Bennet, Wm. Baker, Eben. Dogget,
62 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Jas. Barnes, Dan Henchman, Joseph Marion, Thos. Hawkins, Sliop and Barn Opposite,
Widow Savel, James Thompson, Hugh Moore, Widow Davis, Nicholas Tabb, Michael
Carrol, Two Tenements of Free Negroes.
Mackerel Lane [Kilby street] ; John Gardner, John Povrell, Vincent Mundersol,
Hasleton Barber's Shop and a Gunsmith's, Edraond Perkins, James Perkins, Several chair
maker's Shops, James Graham, Capt. Atherton Haugh, John- Doan, Capt. B. Smith, Saul
Bangs, D. Kourkes, G. Perry, Paul Baxter shop, Benj. Salisbury, Nich. Dyer, Wm. Stutely,
Peter Air, Francis Warden, Benj. Phillip's store, McNeals sail Loft, Palfreys Ditto, Pulters
cooper shop, Davis Blacksmith, James Graham Ditto, Fish Market, Sinsesbys shop, Reads
ditto, Harris's ditto, Mellus's ditto, T. Palfrey's Sail Loft, Widow Brailesford, John
Osborn, Obed Cross, Isaac Dafforn.
Ldwer Part of Water Street; William Torrey, Jacob Bucknam, James Beaton, Nicho-
las Lobden, John Rice, Blacksmith's Carpenter's & Chaisemaker's Shop, Thomas Palfrey,
Thomas Hartley jun% Edmond Mann, Col. Thwing, James Thwing, Widow Noyes, Ed.
Quincy Jr., Thos. Walley, Widow ParsoU, Mrs. Stevenson, Thos. Read, Thos. Read Jr.,
Bruelsley Read, Robt. William, Jas. Tucker, John Fullerton, Nath. Winslow, Joseph
Webb Jr., Barnard & Wheelwrights Shop and Stores adjoining.
Milk St. and Battery March. — Hall's & Messis's Calif's Tan-Houses, Thomas Barnes,
Widow Giffen, Jones, Waters, Nathan Foster, Thomas Speakman, Wm. Freeland, Isaac
Hause, Hon. John Osborn, AVidow Brown, Oliver Wiswall, Caleb Prince, Mrs. Mary Oliver,
Joseph Dowse, David Burnet, Edward Stone, Andrew Oliver Jr., John Powell, Ed. Davis,
Mr. Masters,, Thos. Masters, Benj. Cobb, Jas. Orill, John Pierce, Eben Gushing, Eben
Cushing Jr., Jas. Rickord, Joseph Uran, Joseph Putnam, Stephen Fullerton, John Prov-
ince, Andrew Gardner, Mr. Finnesey, Andrew Lepair, Samuel Hewes, Increase Blake,
Capt. Edward Blake, Benj^ Hallowell, Daniel Ingersol, Two Blacksmith's and 2 Boat-
builder's and sundry other Shops, Thomas Salter, Peter Bourn, Widow Perkins, Nath
Eddy, Joshua Sprigg, Zephaniah Basset, John Boyce, Jacob Ridgway, James Moore, Mr.
Muggot, Wm. Fullerton, Mr. Hill, John Newell, Wm. Cox, Isaac Pierce and Distill House,
a Bake House, Benj. Frothingham, Ed King, John Griffen, Mr. Bright, Thos. Spear,
Capt. Killeran, Isaiah Andebert, E. B. Oliver, Math. Salter, Joshua Bowles, James Phillips,
Isaac Wendell, John Allen, Wallis, Wilson, all Stores, Shops, &c., on Col. Wendell's
wharf.
King-St. [State street]. — John Stevenson, the corner of Mackerel-Lane, Widow
Foster, Simon Eliot, Peck, Glasier, John Green, James Lamb, Widow Checkley, John
Wheatly, John Jepson, Benj" Jepson, Thomas White, Hezekiah Cole, Goodwin shop, John
Peck's shop, Messrs. Apthorp & Gardiner's warehouse, John Knight's ditto, Bart. Cheever's
ditto, where the fire was stopped.
About sixty more were consumed. The light of the Fire was seen in Portsmouth, the
explosion by the Gun Powder at the South Battery M'as heard at Hampton. The following
is a copy of a vote passed the Great and General Court on the 22nd instant : —
" The House taking into Consideration that part of his Excellency's speech respecting
the calamity brought on the town of Boston in the late fire, and it appearing on the best
information that could in so short be obtained that there was consumed 174 dwelling houses
and tenements and 175 ware houses, shops and other buildings with a great part of the
furniture besides large quantities of merchandize That the loss upon moderate computation
cannot be less than £100,000 sterling, that there be advanced and paid out of the Publick
Treasury into the hands of the selectmen and overseers af orsaid the sum of Three Thou-
sand pounds, out of the necessary raised by excise the year passed. The selectmen and
overseers to lay an account of the money raised by the publick contribution before this
court, and of their distribution thereof, and of the sura received out of the Publick
Treasury. Several necessaries were sent the sufferers by the selectmen and Gentlemen of
the Town."
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 63
This, then, was the great fire that had to be fought with only nine small
hand-engines. It must have been anything but encouraging to the members
of the department especially, as many of them had their own homes and
places of business laid in ruins. Drake's Histoi-y places the exact number of
buildings as " one hundred and seventy- four dwellings, and one hundred and
seventy-five other buildings, making a total of three hundred and forty-
nine." The list of persons who applied for relief was kept in two paper-cov-
ered books, as was the list of donations, — one for the list of the wealthy and
the poor, the other for the middling classes ; these records are now in the of-
fice of the Fire Commissioners. From these we find that two hundred and
forty-three wealthy, four hundred and sixty-eight poor, and three hundred
and fourteen of the middling class were given aid, making a total of nine
hundred and twenty-five applicants.
All the buildings from Pudding lane to the water-front were laid in ruins,
not a single one being left excepting those above mentioned and on the side
of King street.
'' But it is not easy," says an eye-witness, writing an account of it -which
appended " Janeways' Dreadful Fire of London," "to describe the terrors
of that fatal morning, in which the imagination of the most calm and steady
received impression that would not easily be effaced. The distressed inhabit-
ants of those buildings wrapped in fire scarce knew where to take refuge ;
numbers were confined to beds of sickness, as well as the aged and the infant,
when removed from house to house, and even the dying were obliged to take
one remove more before their final time."
It will be noticed that the fire broke out at nearly the same spot as did
that of 1711 ; but the wind being in a different direction it swept over another
part of the town. Although light at the commencement, the wind soon came
on to blow a gale from the north-west. " There was beheld," continues the
account, "a perfect torrent of fire bearing down all before it. In a seeming
instant all were aflame."
There are several estimates of the value of the property destroyed : the
first was £300,000 ; the General Court places it at £100,000. Hutchinson's
History, III., 81, says: —
Others who had observed the increased value of the land upon which the houses stood
estimated the loss at not more than £50,000; and judged that if the donations could have
been equally distributed, no great loss would have been sustained.
Dr. Holmes' " Annals," II., 103, cites " the value of property destroyed as
£73,112 7s. and 3d.," and that " collective donations amounted to £17,750
15s. and 8d." But the following petition will give the most accurate figures,
besides other matters of interest : —
To the Hon'''* the coraons of Great Britain, in Parliament assembled. The Petition
of Sarah Ayers, Francis Ackley &c [naming all the sufferers] of Boston in the province of
Massachusetts Bay, Most humbly sheweth.
64 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
That on the 20 of March last a most terrible fire exceeding anything that ever before
happened in the American colonies, broke out in the heart of the said town of Boston at
the hour of two in the morning, which, increased by the wind, blowing very strong from the
N.W., and the flames of many wooden buildings, raged with great violence, carrying all
before it, and still widening in its progress, proceeded with such a rapid course to the
waters edge, that the houses and other buildings with the movables of your petitioners,
were in a very little time reduced to ashes, and some of your petitioners from affluent and
others from easy circumstances to great straits and indigence.
That your petitioners, with their families, amounting to a large number of persons,
being received with the greatest humanity by other inhabitants of the town, to whom for
their preservation they fled in their sore distress, became burdensome to them and the
whole town, whose care and kindness on this occation have been exceedingly great; but
your petitioners, who when they were able cheerfully bore part of the common burden,
are sensible that the inhabitants in general, however well inclined are unable to bear any
considerable addition to the heavy load of taxes, which for many years has fallen upon
them, far exceeding that of other colonists in consequence of their greater extortion of
themselves in conjunction with the inhabitants of other parts of the province, to prevent
French encroachments and prosecute war against the common enemy.
That the chief part of such of your petitioners as were the proprietors of the houses
destroyed are unable to build others on the vacant lands, and if that cannot be effected
many of the distressed must of necessity soon seek their bread and habitation elsewhere,
and the metropolis of the colony, which was many years the chief strength of the English
interest on the continent of America, without being in the least burdensome to its mother
country, will be left in a broken & declining state.
That under the direction of the government of the province, and the special care of
all the proper officers of the town, an exact & particular account of the loss sustained has
been taken, and is ready to be laid before this Honorable House, whereby it appears that
the whole amounted to the sum of £53,334:, 5s., 5d. sterling.
That divers sums have been received for the benefit of your petitioners, amounting to
the following sums in sterling money, viz., by grant of the Gen' Court of Mass"^ province,
£2,250. By collections in the several churches in Boston, and othei* parts of the province
£3,916, 10, 5|. By grants of the colonies of New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New
Hampshire, & Connecticut, £3,358, Os. 44d. By private donations made in the province &
elsewhere including £3,000 given by Merchants of London, £3,793, Os., ll|d., which,
amounting to £13,317, lis., 9d. being deducted from the value of the immediate losses
sustained by your petitioners, reduces them to £40,016, 13s., 8d. sterling.
Wherefore your most humble petitioners oppressed with so heavy a loss, together with
their great losses & disadvantages proceeding from their being so suddently driven from the
habitation & business, most humbly pray that this Hon'''« House will be pleased to take
their calamities case into their compassionate consideration, and grant them such relief as
to the great wisdom & goodness of this Honorable House shall seem proper, to assist their
endeavors to support themselves and their numerous families, and to become again useful
members of the commonwealth.
And your petitioners, as in duty bound shall ever pray, &c.
John Thomilson,
Wm. Bollan, in the name
and behalf of the petitioners.
Two years later, the petitioners learned that " it had been graciously re-
ceived by his Majesty," but what fully became of it is not recorded. Dona-
tions continued to come in from all parts of the country until 1763, which at
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 65
that time amounted to a total of £22,107 Is. 6;^d. Several private donations
from gentlemen abroad were received ; among them, Mr. DeBerdh, of Loudon,
sent £100, Charles Apthorp, of New York, the same, and Christopher Kilby,
£200, in gratitude for which, Macliierel lane was changed to Kilby street in
his honor.
The following paragraphs were printed in the ' ' Post Boy " after the
fire : —
A woman who was overtaken in Travail and delivered in open air is doing well at the
time of late Fire.
Mess'"'* Printers
As there has been a very unhappy Fire in the Town which broke out at the House of
Mrs Mary Jackson and Son, by putting hot ashes in a Hogshead which report is with out
foundation for a number of Persons were in the cellar at the time the House were in Fire,
and saw tlie Hogshead entirely sound, and not the least Fire near it, but how the Firetooke
place is uncertain but thought by the sufferers to be by accident and not by any ones
neglect.
This lady and her son William soon after open another store in Wash-
ington street, a few doors from the Old State-House.
At the May session of the General Court an act was passed " for the
better rebuilding that part of the Town which was laid waist by the late fire ;
and for preventing fire in the future." The preamble to the act stated that
the " great desolation hath been principally occationed by the narrowness of
the streets, and the house being built of wood, and covered with shingles."
A committee was appointed to lay out the streets anew in the district ; their
plans and reports were soon after adopted. Three commissioners were
appointed to hear and settle all complaints or difficulties regarding land.
They consisted of Samuel Danforth, Samuel Watts, and Jos. Williams, who,
with twelve jurors (none of whom where to be residents of Boston) , consti-
tuted the Court. More legislating was also passed in the matter of wooden
buildings, whereby the builder of any structure of this material of more than
seven feet high would be fined £50.
The buildings erected after this fire were wholly (except shops) of brick
or slate. They extended from Devonshire street through Water, Congress,
Kilby, the lower part of Milk streets, and around the east side of Fort Hill.
Marlborough Engine 5 was first at the fire, also at those at Griffin's
wharf. Enscine 6 was at that of Mr. Bowdoin's house and Mr. Eustice's
dwelling on Sudbury street, all of which occurred previous to March 30.
At a town-meeting, a unanimous vote of thanks was given for all the
donations received, and the donors' names were ordered printed in the paper.
At the same time methods for the more speedy extinguishing of fires were
adopted ; but those orders were the same as were then in force, with the ad-
dition of placing the care and inspection of the engines under the flrewards,
wlio were to use their own judgment regarding repairs, etc. Two axes and a
66 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
lilce number of fire-hooks were given to each company instead of one, and two
men were added to each engine to use them.
The only one change in the Board of Firewards occurred this year, Mr.
J. M. Wendell succeeding T. Flucker. Capt. A. Brown, of Engine 2, was
the first to avail himself of the increase of two members by admitting, on
June 4, Joseph Balch and Joseph True. At the same date Engine 1 received
the bounty for a fire a month previous at Mr. Lilley's house, near the Old
North Church. This engine was ordered to be removed from its site near the
Old North Meeting-house, opposite Henry Franklin's house, to the laud on
the square near the Watch-House (Middle street, near the Second Church).
Jonathan Brown and George Rumsley joined the company on the 18th as axe-
men. Captain Robinson, of Engine 3, resigns on account of bodily infirmity,
and James Barnard was promoted ; and four members were enrolled, — Henry
Newell, Edward Burbeck, Jr., Elias Robinson, and John Adams.
August 6, Daniel Lilly was admitted on Engine 1, and on September 3
Joseph Balch was succeeded on Engine 2 by William Hill. ,Engine 6 was first
at the fire at Iver's sugar-house, West End, during October.
On the 27th, complaint was made to the selectmen that the companies
were short of men. It was ordered, therefore, that the lists of members be
sent in for examination. Thomas Baiter and Stephen Winter were added to
Engine 7 on December 31.
The year 1761 was ushered in with another large fire. During January
the weather was unusually cold, so as to render the harbor full of ice for three
days, which almost stopped navigation. On the 13th, which was probably
one of the coldest days, the cry was sounded about half-past 9 o'clock at
night for a fire discovered in a shop opposite the north side of Faneuil Hall,
in Dock square. It soon communicated to the row of wooden buildings ex-
tending to the swing bridge (Merchants row and North street), which were
leased to several occupants by the town, and were soon in ashes, together
with all the goods of the residents. The building on the north side escaped,
but Faneuil Hall caught, and soon nothing was left of it but the brick walls.
Several sailors in trying to save the bell had a very narrow escape from death.
While in the cupola they were cut off, and wei'e only reached by men going as
high as they could, and resting the short ladders on their shoulders ; they were
by this means enabled to reach the imperilled men in the tower. The number
of shops on the south side of the market soon followed. So cold was the
night that the water from the engines congealed as soon as it left the pipes,
and fell on the fire in particles of ice. It is no wonder, then, that the fire had
its own way, as the engines were rendered almost useless, and dependence
had in blowing up and pulling dowa buildings. The walls of Faneuil
Hall, after the fire, were propped up with the ladders belonging to the
town. This hall was used by the selectmen in their sessions for
seventeen years, but no records or papers were lost. Their next meeting
was held in the house of Mr. Robert Stover, on King street. Their
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 67
old chamber at the Court-House, used before they occupied Faneuil
Hall, was at times possessed by committees of the General Court, which
made it very inconvenient ; and unless they had a place assigned ex-
pressly to them, they could not transact their business. They, therefore,
petitioned the Council, and was again given the room in the Court-House for
their special use. A vote was passed at the town-meeting held March 13 for
repairing Faneuil Hall, and the General Court granted a lottery for raising
the necessary money. After it was rebuilt, March 14, 1763, James Otis,
Esq., delivered an address on the occasion of the first meeting held in the
new edifice.
After the fire the dock was filled up as far as the place where the town's
shops stood ; but the line near the swing bridge was left open, as being of
service in case of fire. The fish-market, Engine-House No. 4, and Watch-
House were ordered to be moved. Mr. Henderson Inches was elected a fire-
ward this year, vice Captain Foster, resigned.
A law was passed by the town on May 12, compelling inhabitants to have
their chimneys swept every three months. A regular s^^stem of entries were
ordered kept by the sweeps, which were to be open at all times to the select-
men.
About this time the orders to the foremen were altered ; after mentioning
the engine, foreman, members, and the order regarding the appointment or
dismissal of a member, it continues : —
And when ever any fire shall break out the said (foreman) and company shall im-
mediately repair to such fire with their engines and there work and improve the same in
such places as the firewards shall direct them and that they always obey such orders of the
fireward in every respect as they shall give relating too fires and the extinguishing of them,
and the said (foreman) and Company are not to depart from any fire or fires with their
Engine until they shall have first obtained the concent of at least three of the firewards
present. That no person belonging to said Engine shall leave it during the fire without lib-
erty from one of the firewards. That if any one or more of said Company shall not be
present and attend his duty by extinguishing of fires and conforming to the direction given
him by the fireward unless j)revented by sickness or some other unavoidable necessity, the
master of said Engine shall as soon as may be given notice thereof to the selectmen, that
such proceedings may be had thereupon as they shall think proper. And the said master
to take care that the doors of the Engine house be not at any time obstructed or prevented
being opened, by snow, ice or any other thing. And that said Engine be worked once every
month from the first of May tolhe P' of October, and that said Engine and pails belonging
to it be kept in goo 1 order, and when at any time it shall happen that anything is out of
order or wanting for said Engine the masters of some of the Company are directly to apply
to the wards for the time being for their direction concerning it, and that they carry with
them at all fires that shall break out the two axes and two fire hooks, belonging to said
Engine, taking care that white ropes be always fixed to said hooks and the axes fixed to
said Engine. And that they at all times keep at least 15 fathoms of white rope in the engine
house ready for more easy pulling down of houses to be used by them in such manner as
the firewards shall direct. And that said Company may be distinguished as belonging to
said Engine, the selectmen further order that each person shall at his own expense provide
68 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
and at every fire wear a black leather jockey cap with a pewter blaze in the front of it and
tlie number of the Engine he belongs to, of this they are not to fail on penalty of being
removed.
Then follows the clause regarding exemption from military duty and re-
ward of £5 for the first engine at a fire. A number of ladders, making sixty,
the total number possessed by the town, were ordered on March 25. Engine
4, at the dock, was the first at the late fire, and was granted the premium on
this date ; and on April 27, Engine 8, for a<fire at Mr. Grindley's house, was
given a premium of thirteen shillings, from which it appears that the premium
had been reduced, although no entry is made of this fact.
The disturbances that were soon to break out in a great war and to bring
the town to the notice of the world were daily growing, so that on May 23
complaints to the selectmen became so numerous that they ordered a
detachment of fifteen men from each engine company to assist the watch
during the night in suppressing these disorders. A slight fire at the prison
this month called out Engine No. 7, next door, which consequently received
the prize. Abraham Sutman was admitted on Engine No. 3, June 3, vice N.
Woodward, deceased.
Captain Brown, of Engine 2, asked for an assistant on June 24, as he
was incapable, on account of bodily infirmity, to attend to all the duties of his
office. Joseph Hunt was placed in that position, he being the first to fill the
office of lieutenant or assistant. On July 22 Captain Cunningham, of Engine
8, sent in his resignation, and David Wheeler was promoted. On the same
date Aaron May, Robert Fairservice, William Wheeler, and John Lovering
were made members in the place of four others who resigned.
In the early days there stood near Powder-horn Hill, or Flagstaff Hill, on
the Common, a block-house which was burnt September 28, 1761 ; but it is
related, " as it is a monument of reproach and an asylum of debauchery, the
inhabitants so much noted for their agility at fires remained tame spectators
of the conflagration and allowed the destruction to go on."
Capt. N. Brown, of Engine 2, resigned on August 19, on account of
sickness-; his place was filled by Gibbons Sharp, to take effect September 14,
1763. Captain Bentley, after a service of thirteen years as foreman of En-
gine 1, resigned his position on October 7, and John Baker was promoted.
He admitted Jonathan Lowe, Richard Green, and Joshua Pico in the company
in the place of three members who resigned.
A well or reservoir for holding salt-water was ordered to be dug at the
dock on the 8th. Engine 8, located on Newbury street, was, on December 2,
ordered to be removed to a piece of ground near Deacon Elliot's, at the South
End (corner of Essex and Washington streets, near the " Liberty Tree").
January 6, 1762, Joel Gushing and Thomas Bracket were admitted mem-
bers of Engine 7, vice Z. Bassett and G. Brown ; and on February 3 William
Smith was made a member of Engine 3. This company was given the prize
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 69
for the fire at Rokes' sugar-house. Two premiums were given to Engine 4
for fires during March, the first being at the distil- house of Joshua Wiuslow,
the other a barn on King street.
Five of the town ladders were lodged in the following sections of the
town on April 26 : North "Writing school-yard ; Messrs. Box & Austin's
rope-walk, near Mr. Mayhew's church ; Faneuil Hall market ; Dr. Sewell's
church ; William Henshaw's yard ; Mr. Bayle's church ; and Mr. Checkley's
church. A building near the Old North Church was on fire this month, for
which Engine 1 was awarded the f>rize. Captain Baker appointed Timothy
Atkins and Thomas Chi'isty on Engine No. 1, June 9, in the room of Samuel
^Treat and .Jonathan Low, and Thomas Collier was admitted on Engine 5, vice
J. Baxter. Captain Phillips resigns his office as flreward this year, and was
succeeded by Thomas Marshall.
About 1 o'clock on the 10th of June another scene of destruction by
fire was witnessed by the citizens. The fire broke out in a bake-house of
George Bray, at the upper end of Williams' court, and before the engines
could be got to work very little of the building or stock, including one hun-
dred and fifty barrels of flour, were left ; in fact, so rapid was the spread of
the flames, that the family had a narrow escape themselves. Great credit is
due the department at this fire, for by their vigilance and splendid work a
great conflagration was avoided, as several buildings, including barns, in the
vicinity were set by the sparks, and several of them consumed, adding to the
already large list of unfortunate dependents on town aid the following persons :
George Bray, John Hopkins, Widow Slater, Mr. James Day (school teacher) ,
Capt. Arthur Noble, Samuel Holbrook, Ephraim Copeland, Jr., Jacob Thayer,
Benjamin Thwing, Widow Gould, and John Barker. Governor Barnard
was present during the time and greatly encouraged the firemen, who Avere
assisted in their endeavors by engines from Charlestown and Castle William,
which were in excellent condition. Engine 7, of the home department, was
the first to arrive, with Engine 5 as second. Eight men from the watch were
stationed with Engines 4 and 5 at the ruins all night, for fear of it breaking
out anew.
Engine 2 was allowed an additional man on the 15th, Gibbins Bove being
appointed to fill that position. Thomas Bradford was put on Engine 1 as an
extra member, June 28. July 14, Engine 2 was given tlie prize for a fire at
Hutchinson's wharf, and oji September 15 Elkonah Hayden was admitted on
Engine 3, vice J. Loring. October 7, J. Wheeler, S. Harris, and B. Bass
were succeeded on Engine 9 by William Pennyman, John Greenleaf, and
Ambrose Searle. The next change in the department was on Engine 2., Samuel
Brown taking the place of W. Hill, on November 17.
The advent of the year 17G3 was immediately followed by the appoint-
ment of Joseph Fo3^e on Engine 6, vice R. Bruyne. On the 16th of this
month, about 10 o'clock in the morning, a severe fire broke out in a building
on N^ewbury street (Washington street, from Summier to Essex streets).
70 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Within a very short time six houses, inclucliog Engine-house 8, were burnt,
while considerable damage was done to several other buildings. The snow
being exceedingly deep and the weather very cold impeded the progress of
the apparatus ; but occurring as it did at midday, ready hands were not
wanting.
Engine 5, for a fire at Mr. Storey's house, and Engine 9, for one at
Deacon Jones' house, were given premiums during this month, while Ebenezer
Torrey, Belcher Smith, and Samuel Shed were appointed in the place of Pad-
dock, Cox, and Flagg on Engine 7. No change is reported on the Board of
Firewards this year.
Captain Sutton, Engine 7, on Apiil 6 asked for an addition of one man on
his company, as it was one of the largest in the town. William Snowden was
therefore appointed to make the sixteenth member, while John Decorter took
the place of J. Bonner. Benjamin Church and WilUam Price claimed damages
for their house being pulled down during the late fire, but they were refused,
on the ground that their building was actually on fire before legal orders were
given for its destruction. Engine 2 was first at the fire this month at Mr.
Thornton's house on Copp's Hill. Thomas AVheeler and Ebenezer Hinckley
were engaged on Engine 8, April 27, vice A. Calson and J. Elliott. The award
for a fire at Brinsley's dwelling at the South End was given to this company.
Capt. J. Barnard, of Engine 3, gave up his position on June 15, and the
vacancy was filled by Jonathan Jenkins ; Henry Libetts was admitted a
member. Robert Pope's dwelling caught on fire during July ; Engine 8 got
first water.
The number of firewards was found to be inadequate to control the
large force of men now in the service of the department ; a petition was
therefore sent during the year to the General Court, for permission to vote for
an addition of four men to serve in that capacity. This petition was imme-
diately granted by passing the following law : —
The Town of Boston may elect and appoint four more meet persons as firewards, Avho
shall serve in that office till their anniversary meeting in March next, and from thence for-
ward, as they shall see cause, to choose sixteen persons who shall do the duty, and be
invested with the like powers, and privileges as firewards in and by the said acts are
invested.
The house of Engine 9 was not rebuilt until September 9, when Mr.
Wales was paid £4 for the work. The premium for the North End fire was
given to Engine 3 on October 5. The election of the Board of Firewards for
1764 made no change in the old members, and William Homes, Joseph Tyler,
Jonathan Williams, and Timothy Fitch were chosen as the new members,
making up the sixteen.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 71
CHAPTER YI.
1764-1774.
SMALLr-POX was Very prevalent iu the town at this tune, in consequence
of which the General Court left the Town-Hall, and took up temporary
accommodations at Harvard College, at Cambridge, the library room of the
college being used by the Governor and Council, while the representatives had a
room below. Thus occupied, a fire was discovered a little after noon on January
25, 1764, in what was then called Old College or Harvard Hall, which was in
a short time entirely consumed, together with the library and philosophical
apparatus. Stoughton and Massachusetts Halls were preserved from the
flames with great difficulty, they having caught several times. The fire was
supposed to have originated under the hearth, which was laid with timber.
The files of the Court and the minutes of the Council for that session were
destroyed, although there does not appear to have been any interruption to
the business of the session, as it was continued in the house of Ebeuezer
Bradish.
Engine 7 was the first at the fire at Dr. Gardner's house during March,
and on April 18 Edward Ruuger and Edward Bosset were admitted iu the
company in the place of Snowden and Shed. The same date. Engine 1
was given the award for the fire at Mr. Newell's barn. On June 6 a fire
broke out near the lower end of Auchmuty lane (Essex, below South street),
in a turpentine distillery, which it consumed. August 8, S. Hens was made a
member of P2ngiue 5. A fire at Mr. Scannel's house, near Dr. Pemberton's
church, during September was reached first by Engine 3.
Captain Greenleaf resigned his position as foreman of PZngine 9 on August
8, and was Succeeded by Samuel Franklaud. Benjamin Bowditch was, at the
same time, made a member.
On account of the small-pox epidemic during this year, the citizens
feared the terrible result should a fire break out. Advertisements were
issued in the several newspapers of the town, enjoining every inhabitant to
see that the law regarding chimneys was carried out. The overseers of the
poor were also instructed to have the chimneys of those who could not afford
the expense taken care of at the town's charge. Revisions were also made
to the law on this matter, whereby the contract for sweeping chimneys was
sold to the highest bidder, who was to be under bond ; chimneys were to be
swept only during the following time : one hour after sunrise to 1 1 o'clock,
A.M., and 2 o'clock to sunset, and that kitchen chimneys be swept five times,
and every other twice, each year. He was also to employ no less than fou^-
72 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
able-bodied men, and all fines received for neglect of the law were to go to
him.
A. Putnam was permitted to rejoin Engine 3, October 10. Isaac Wiliard
and Thomas Moore took the places of Crowley and Norcross on Engine 6, on
November 7 ; the house of this engine was repaired at the same time.
Timothy Pees and William Baker admitted on Engine 4, vice Perkins and
Anderson, on the 13th.
The first complaint regarding any foreman was made the 20th, when
Captain Wheeler, of Engine 8, was discharged for keeping a member of his
engine named W. Wheeler on the company's list when he was ordered back
to the militia " for maltreating officers on the Common." Obediali Curtis was
promoted to the position of foreman. But this appointment was unsatisfac-
tory to some of the members of that company, and the following petition was
sent to the selectmen on December 12 : —
We the subscribers in behalf of this Company desire that we may have our former
captain again restored to us, and that we may have the privilege of choosing or nominating
a captain or members as Vacancies may arise from time to time, and as we in duty bound
shall ever pray, etc. Signed John Bennett, Aaron May.
But no comfort was given by the selectmen, who, in reply, informed them
that they had already appointed a suitable man to command the engine, and
that they were determined not to give up their rights of nominating the cap-
tains ; in fact, they disapproved of the entire petition. Several of the members
having resigned, a new company was organized on the 14th, consisting of
Jos. Lovering, John Loveriug, E. Hinckley, Robert Robinson, William Hark-
ing, Stephen Greenleaf, William Morse, Jr., Jos. Sumner, John McFaden,
Thomas Noland, John Crosby, Jr., and Thomas Hinckley. AVith the usual
orders to the foreman, a clause was inserted that each member wear a black-
leather jockey-cap, with a pewter blaze, on which the number of the engine
is engraved. By this order the first badge and fire-hat were adopted.
During January, 1765, premiums were given as follows: Engine 2, fire
in Block House lane ; Engine 7, at Mr. Neal's balce-house ; Engine 8, at
Widow Ferry's bake-house. John Robinson was engaged on Engine 3, in the
place of his father, February 20.
The firewards elected for 1765 were Capt. Adimo Paddock, James Rich-
ardson, William Taylor, William D. Cheever, James Cunningham, and Capt.
Benjamin Wahlo, vice H. Inches, R. Tyler, J. ScoUy, Captain Davis, Jos.
Jackson, and T. Fitch, who resigned. Engine 8 had Isaac Anmer, AVilliam
Moore, Jr., and John McFaden admitted on March 20. The fire at Widow
Treefor's house, below the New North Church, in May, was put out by Engine
2. John Neat succeeded T. Batter on Engine 7, on the 7th. At the same date
Engine 3 was given the prize for a fire at Captain Authorberry's brigantine lying
at Hancock wharf. Julj^ 17, Thomas Nolan was admitted a member of Engine
8. The ladders in the yard of Mr. Thayer, belonging to the department, were
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 73
distributed at the almshouse, granary, and workhouse on August 25 ; and on
the 28th Captains Read, Putnam, Sutton, and Curtis were called upon by the
selectmen to be ready to assist the civil magistrates in their endeavors to pre-
serve the peace.
Mr. David Wheeler, ex-foreman of Engine Company 8, is credited with
being the first in the town to manufacture complete an engine to meet the
requirements of the department. Wheeler was a- blacksmith, and located on
Newbury street (Washington street) , where he had given notice in the press
that there was an opportunity to encourage home industry, as he would manu-
facture water engines as good as anj^ imported, and at a much lower price.
He had not had his new engine finished but a few days when a chance was
given him to fully test its capabilities, as on the morning of August 21 a fire
was discovered in one of the six workshops that made the corner between
Quaker lane and Water street (Congress street), where in a few moments the
entire block was in a mass of flames ; but the plentiful water-supply in
the vicinity and the low wind enabled the firemen to confine it within those
walls. The " home-made " engine "was found to perform extremely well."
Wheeler was also probably the first to introduce lightning-rods in the town,
for in an advertisement he states his purpose " to make and fix iron rods
with points upon houses or any other eminence, for prevention from the
effects of lightning."
The famous Stamp Act riots date from this time. In an account of one
of these great disturbances we find the following : —
About twilight, on August 26, a small bonfire appeared to be kindled in King Street,
and surroundfd onlj^ by a few boys and children; but one of the Firewards, perceiving it
to rise to a dangerous height, interposed and used his endeavours to extinguish, or at least
to diminish it; in which salutary attempt, after several whispers from a person unknown,
warning him of danger, he received a blow and such tokens of insult and outrage as
obliged him to desist and take his departure. Soon after this, dajdight being scarce in,
the fire gradually decaying, a peculiar whoop and whistle was observed to be sounded
from various quarters.
The account then goes on to detail the ravages made on the house of
William Story, Esq., the rioters using the public files of the Court of the
Vice-Admiralt}^, his private papers and accounts, to feed the dying flames of
tlie bonfire, which they left -after finishing their spoliation of the house.
Captain Green's distil-house was burned during November ; Engine 7
was given the award. A. Waters and T. Wheeler resigned from Company
9, and were succeeded by George Roulston and Daniel Parks, on the 27th;
and on January 22, 1766, Thomas Botter was admitted, vice J. Laughton.
The first fire for the year 1766 occurred during January, at Mr. Smith's
house ; Engine 4 arrived on the scene first. There was also a fire at John
Boylston's store the same month, for which Engines 7 and 5 claimed the
premium. It was given to the latter, as was a premium for a fire at Mr.
74 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPARTMENT.
Stephens' shop. John Crosby, Jr., admitted on Enghie 8, February 6, vice
T. Hinckley. On the 19fh William Dorricut and Benjamin Gottom were made
members of Engine 3, in the place of W. Pearson and A. Putnam. William
Brown succeeded J. Pico on Engine 1, on the 2Gth. The captain of this
company asked for twenty members for his engine, as it was too large to be
manned by eighteen. John Ballard, Jr., and John Bryant were therefore
made members, March 5.
The choice of firewards for this year were John Hancock, Samuel
Adams, and Francis Shaw, vice Joseph Jackson, James Austin, and William
Taylor, resigned.
The engine constructed by David Wheeler, which, as the entry states,
" does honor to the country as well as the constructor," was given to the
town by the builder and his associate, Mr. John Green, on the condition that
the town keep it in good order and allow the company the similar privilege as
the other firemen enjoyed, which generous proposal was accepted with the
above conditions on March 12. This engine was called the Green Engine,
No. 10, and located in Bedford street ; later on it was termed the Brooks
Engine, No. 11. Wheeler was appointed foreman, with fourteen men. The
first prize was given them fourteen days later for a fire at Captain Wheeler's
own house in Pond lane (Bedford street) . Benjamin Black joined Engine 9
on April 2,
The preparations for the celebration of great jubilation held by the
town on occasion of the repeal of the Stamp Act called forth some appre-
hensions on the part of the authorities regarding fire. The following motions
were therefore unanimously voted : —
That the Magistrates of the Town, the Selectmen Firewards Constables and Engine-
men be desired to use their utmost endeavors to prevent any bonfires being made in any
part of this town, also the throwing of Rockets, Squibs and other fireworks, in any part of
the streets of said Town except the time that shall be appointed for general Rejoicing, and
that the inhabitants be desired for the present to restrain their children and servants from
going abroad on evenings. Also that the security of the Powder House on the night of
general rejoicings the selectmen be desired to order two of the Fire Engines and the com-
pany to be placed near said Magazine, and that the roof thereof be well wet and that the
air-holes be stop't with mortar and Bricks or otherwise.
Despite the large number of bonfires and explosion of. fireworks, which
was without precedent in the town, no fires were set or damage done, except
it be the burning of the pyramid or obelisk, intended to be set up under
Liberty Tree, but temporarily erected on the Common, by the " Sons of
Liberty ; " which, by some accident, took fire about 1 o'clock on the night of
the celebration. This structure was four stories high, and was illuminated
with two hundred and eighty lamps. At its top was " fixed a round box of
fireworks horizontally." These four compartments, or stories, exhibited each
four sides. The lower story, or base, was without ornament, and is only
described as "of the Doric order ; " the next was covered with cartoons ; the
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 75
third, with ten verses each ; aucl the last, with four portraits each. (See
Drake's History.)
William Curtis and Joseph Ford were made members of Engine 8, May
14, and Israel Loveriug and John Bacon on Engine 6. These additions were
made to place the membership on the same basis as it was before the war,
when a number of firemen enlisted.
Engine 2 was first at the fire in house of Rev. Mr. Checkleys, at North
End ; Engine 1 , at Dr. Clark's barn, North End ; and Engine 6, at Mr. Polland's
house, — all of which occurred during June. Thomas Huntable was ad-
mitted on Engine 9, the 30th. Oi'cutt Shaw and James Robbins succeeded
John Baker and J. Clough on Engine 1, November 5. The last fire this year
occurred during December, at the potash factory, near Rev. Mr. Checkley's
house; the award was given to Engine 10. On the 16th Nathaniel Corbeiny
was added to Company 2.
A large fire is recorded for the beginning of 1767. It broke out about
10 o'clock on the night of February 3, in the bakehouse of Mr. Bray,
located near Mill creek. About twenty-five houses were laid in ruins. The
flames passed over the creek, and caught the houses in Perraway's, or Ball's,
alley (Centre street), where it did most of the damage, over two-thirds of the
buildings consumed being on the north side of the creek. Engine 4 was the
first to throw water. The loss of real estate, as taken by the selectmen, was
as follows: Mr. Jonathan Williams' mansion-house, £1,000; Capt- John
Bryant's house, £175; Mr. John Griffith's house, £175; Thomas Emmon's
house, £300; Capt. Robert Ball's house and five tenants, £1,000; three
tenants of William Scott, £160; Jacob Emmon's house, £106 13s. 4d. ; two
tenants of Thomas Walker, £200 ; Widow Hendry's house, £100 ; Widow Lep-
son's house, £6); Widow Dodge's house, £100; tenant of Joseph Howe,
£200 ; William Paine's house, £133 6s. 8d. Damaged property : tenant of Ed.
Marion, £13 6s. 8d. ; two tenants belonging to George B. Gedney, £13 6s. 8d. ;
storehouse of James Thompson, £66 13s. 4d. ; a house of the heirs of Andrew
Tyler, £40 ; and sundry tenants' stores, stables, etc., belonging to John Han-
cock, £1,490; aggregating £5,333 6s. 8d. Donations were received from
various sources, the churches collecting £447 12s. 4d., and the General Court
ordered, on February 28, that £400 be paid to the sufferers, who number sixty-
three.
The next fire occurred during INI arch, at Mr. Reed's sugar-house, at North
End ; Engine 2 was first on hand. Martin Gay, Esq., was elected a fire ward
during 1767, in the place of Francis Shaw. Benjamin White joined Engine 6,
April 22, while B. B. Emmonds and Roland Brooks were made members of
Engine 9, on the 27th ; a fire in a house near Deacon Barret's gives Engine 4 a
prize, June 10 ; and on the 17th E. Richards was enrolled on the list of Engine
9. The firewards had the public ladders replaced on August 10, and an
advertisement was issued forbidding people using them except in case of fire.
Engine 3 was given the prize, on September 30, for a fire at Mr. Cowell's
76 niSTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
shop. The captain at this time complained of his engine being out of repair,
and D. Wheeler, being requested to inspect it, stated that it was unfit for
service, and asked that he may be allowed to build one.
On account of some trouble, the nature of which we cannot ascertain,
Capt. J. Brown, of Engine 6, was called before the selectmen on September
23 ; and on the charges being preferred, he resigned, and was succeeded on
October 5 by Josiah Gains ; Cable and Foy were also dismissed, and were
succeeded by Mr. Pillsbury and George Newell. "Wheeler was given the con-
tract to build a new engine to take the place of No. 3, which was to be of the
same dimensions as the Charlestown enghie, and to be at least five inches in
chamber, for which he was to be paid £57 6s. 8d. The old engine was sold
to John Ruddock for £20, who kept it on his farm at the North End.
Nathaniel Wheeler took the place of J. Martin on Engine 6, October
21. Engine 4 was given the award for the fire at Mr. Goldthwait's barn,
November 1 1.
Among the various articles placed on the list of goods to be prohibited
from being imported were fire-engines, for which clause we suppose Wheeler
and his friends are responsible, as he was the founder of the manufacture of
these apparatus in Boston.
Captain Wheeler was dismissed from the service, December 16. He had
lost one of his legs, and therefore considered by the selectmen as incapa-
ble to attend his duties ; Benjamin Wheeler succeeded him. A committee
from the firewards lodged a complaint with the authorities that Captain Reed,
of Engine 5, had refused to obey the direction of Captain Wendall, a late fire-
ward ; also of several other companies, that they played their engines upon
one another, which discommoded those attending to their duty. The company
commanders being brought before the selectmen were acquainted with the
charges, on December 23 ; but these gentlemen gave their word that they
would immediately send in the name of any member who would in the future
be guilty of ill-behavior. Orders were then issued to the department that
every member must wear a hat with a pewter blaze, so they could be dis-
tinguished.
Captain Baker, of Engine 1, was succeeded by John Ballard on December
28, who proposed Francis Marshall, J. Walker, and Benjamin Cushing as
members of his company, in the place of T. Brown, G. Rumsby, and John
Ballard, Jr. G. Flagg joined Engine 6, December 30.
The initial month of 1768 did not pass without a fire. It occurred at
Mr. Kneeland's house, in Kneeland's lane (Kneelaud street) ; Engine 6 was
on hand first. A fire at Mrs. Walles', Dock square, occurred during Feb-
ruary, at which Engine 4 was awarded first prize ; and on March 9 Engine
2 had first water on Edes' bakehouse.
John Scollay was again elected a fireward for 1768, being chosen in the
place of W. D. Cheever, and Thomas Dawes, vice J. Williams. After the dis-
charge of Captain Wheeler, Engine 10 was given entirely in charge of the
niSTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 77
town, on April 25, the selectmen agreeing that in case of fire their estates to
be given the preference. This engine was given the award for a fire at Mr.
Deering's during the month, and Engine 6 was on hand first at Mr. Anchor's
house, West End. Samuel Brenden and N. Pierce succeeded Theodore
Bliss and M. Greenleaf on Engine 9. A petition was sent into the town-
meeting on May 4, requesting that application be made to the General Court
for an additional number of firewards ; but it was not acted upon. Benjamin
Burland was admitted on Engine 1, vice B. Brown, June 6 ; and Richard Cull
succeeded M. Hawes on Engine 6, the 8th.
August 30, Jeffrey Richardson, Thomas Wheeler, James Blake, and
Nath. Bradley wei-e admitted on Engine 10, vice David Wheeler, D. Wheeler,
Jr., Thomas T. Wheeler, and M. Jackson. Daniel M. Warren succeeded S.
Brown on Engine 2, January 25, 1769.
The January fire for 1769 was of more importance than formerly, for a
detailed account of which we reprint the report made in Snow's History : —
On Monday, January 30, 1769, at about half after 10 o'clock at night, the people
adjoining the jail were alarmed by the prisoners crj'ing fire, on which the keeper and a
number of pursons ran there and found part of the prison in a blaze. It was some time
before the prisoners could be got out, the inner keys being lost in the confusion, and the
wooden work being so strongly bound with iron that it was difficult to cut through the doors
and partitions. Captain Wilson of the 59th Regiment was particularly active in extragat-
ing them. It was expected that the fire would be kept under but the great quantity of
outside timber work occationed it to rage with great violence and the flames burst through
the windows and reached the roof, which after burning some hours fell in, the Avood-work
burning all night and in the morning nothing remained but the bare stone walls. During
the continuance of the fire the towns people behaved with their usual alacrity, and many
of the military were very active in assisting them. The commodore was present, and a
number of officers and sailors were landed from the ship and an Engine was sent from the
Rumney (Chelsea)' The commander of the main guard with a party, offered their services
on the first alarm, which was refused, but they were afterward sent for and took charge
of the prisoners. This is the only good deed we have found attributed to those persons.
According to another account, some of the prisoners had to be dragged
through such small apertures that their flesh was torn in a frightful manner ;
two of them were considerably burned, one of them badly. Two of the
prisoners escaped. On examining the others, it was found that the fire was
set to the door by two of them who were confined in one room ; one was a
soldier, the other a young lad. Engine 5 was, as a matter of course, being
next door, the first to get water on the building.
Engine 2 was at the fire in a house near the Old North Church during
the month. February 1, John Fenno took T. Hinckley's place on Engine 8.
The following engines were awarded premiums : Engine 7, fire at Mr. Will-
iams, School street, in February ; Engine 5, fire at Hutchins' wharf, in March ;
Engine 9, fire near the powder-house, at the foot of the Common, during
May.
78 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIFE DEPARTMENT.
Alexander Hill was elected a fireward, vice Jos. Cunuingliam, resigned.
Nicholas Deering succeeded T. Bracket on Engine 7, August 2, and Walker
Turber was admitted on Engine 2, vice J. Turber, deceased. On Engine 6
Nathaniel Low and Nathaniel Call took the place of J. Lord, W. White, Y.
Norcrost, and J. Loring. Engine 4 was first at the fire at Jacob Boyd's house,
at the dock, during October ; while a prize was given Engine 6 for a fire at
Captain Small's house, at the West End, in December ; also for one at Mr.
Pallard's house. John Bound took the place of W. Darricout on Engine 3,
December 27 ; George Cade and William Rounds succeeded R. Olle and G.
Flagg on Engine 6, the same date.
The fire for January, 1770, was at the house of Mr. Eddes, at the dock ;
Engine 4 threw first water. A. Crown was appointed on Engine 8, vice W. -
Moore, Jr., March 11, and Thomas Button on Engine 7, vice J. Barrow, on
the 18th. No change in the Board of Firewards occurred this year.
At the town-meeting this month the question was debated as to whether
application should be made to the General Court that an act may be passed
empowering a justice of the peace to convict any person who refused to obey
a fireward to work at a fire ; it was passed in the negative.
The great tragedy of March 5, 1770, known as the Boston Massacre,
was in some respects due to the ringing of the bells ; hearing which, the
citizens supposed a fire was in progress, and being told that it was in King
street, hurried thither. They then discovered that it was done to congregate
the people around the Old State-House, where, soon after, the ever-memorable
firing was committed which so inflamed the hearts of thousands of our fathers,
that the great engines of power controlled by the king could not quench that
fire of liberty which raged with such irresistible fury.
Nathaniel Tidmanks succeeded Mr. Lidbetter on Engine 3 in August.
On the 19th Thomas Uran succeeded Captain Putnam on Engine 4. On Fast
Day, this year, a fire occurred at a house in Charter street ; it was put out by
Engine 2.
The Old South Church was the prey for the January fire for 1771 ; little
damage was done, however. Jos. Wheeler succeeded J. Hinckley on Engine
8, February 13. Mr. Francis Shaw succeeded William Holmes on the Board
of Firewards this year. The thanks of the town were given him for his service
on the board. The courtesy was extended after this to every member who,
after serving for a length of time, resigned.
The care of chimneys was given less attention each year by many of the
inhabitants ; therefore, on May 7, the town appointed Firewards Dawes,
Williams, and Austin to prepare a scheme which would benefit tlie town in
this respect. These gentlemen, in their report, stated that, from an estimate,
there were 1,800 dwelling-houses in the town, each of which have three or
more funnels, which, as the law directs, must be swept four times per year,
equalling 21,600 funnels, which, at the price established, amounted to more
than £1,200; and as those who are careful to have their chimneys clean
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 79
were iu more clanger from the defective flues of the neglectful than from their
own chimneys, it was their opinion that it would be advantageous and eco-
nomical to have the expense carried by taxation ; and that a master and six
sweepers be employed, at a salary of £100 per year for the foreman and £50
for the subordinates, who were to go through each ward and keep a register
of the house and time when work was done. This plan was readily adopted
and put in force.
The new engine for No. 3 was first mentioned on September 1 as working
at a fire, when the company was given premium for those at Mr. Thornton's
and Mr. Steward's dwellings, which occurred on August 22. Engine 6 was
awarded for the fire at Mr. Stone's house, West End, during September.
J. N. AVoodward was admitted on Engine 3 on October 30, vice J. Brown ; and
on November 13 Amons These was appointed in the place of R. B. Emonds
on Engine 7.
On January 15, 1772, Capt. Thomas Read, of Engine 5, after a service
of twenty-nine years as foreman of that company, sends in his resignation, on
account of old age. This is the longest record for service as foreman in
one company recorded in the history of the Boston Fire Department, Mr.
Shubael Hews succeeded him in command on the 22d.
The January fire for this year occurred in the Brick Meeting-house, for
which Engine 2 was given the prize. The other fire this month occurred in
Bower's building, on King street ; Engine 7 was there first. John Muuzie
joined Engine Co. 3, vice J. Roberts, on February 5. On the morning of April
1 the house of Mr. Corclier on King street was destroyed by fire ; Engine 5
was on hand. John Spear joined Engine 9 on the 15th. Capt. Job Prince
was the only new name on the list of firewards for this year, he succeeding
John Rowe.
The Honorable John Hancock presented to the town, on May 6, a very
fine engine which he had imported from England. It was given with the
understanding that it should be provided with a company of men by the
town, who should have the same privileges as the other firemen. The
machine was formally accepted at an adjourned meeting held on the 22d,
which meeting was called for the especial purpose of thanking the donor,
and to take proper action regarding the engine. Mr. Hancock being re-
quested to nominate a foreman, appointed Mr. Samuel Sloan. The select-
men ordered that it was ^' to be placed in a house at or near Hancock
wharf, and in case of fire the estate of the donor shall have the preference
of its service." This engine was called Hancock No. 10, and had a company
of fourteen members.
May 13, William Fenno took G. Roulston's place on Engine 9. June 3,
N. Thomas succeeded T. Narnstable, and on October 11 Robert Smallpace
joined the company. A fire occurred at Mr. Dalton's house during June,
and at Mr. Sumner's dwelling on July 20, for which Engine 7 was given
the prizes. James Sargent was admitted on Engine 7, vice T. Patterson,
80 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
November 27. The last fire for the year occurred at Mr. Major Lews' barn,
at which Engiue 8 threw first water.
The fire for January, 1773, occurred at Mr. Winter's bull-house, at which
Engine 5 was the first to arrive. The company belonging to Engine 9 was
increased to seventeen members on January 6. February 10, W. Manzey,
W. Clark, and William Adams left Engine 3. Captain Gains, of Engine 6,
was succeeded by John Norcrost on March 3, he appointing John Jackson and
Hall as members. The same date William Corbin was admitted on Engine 8,
vice J. Levering. Capt. Edward Proctor was chosen a fireward in the place
of Myer Daws, and Mr. John Coflfin in the room of Mr. Richardson.
At the request of the firewards, March 9, six leather buckets were added
to each engine. A committee was appointed at this meeting to make a report
concerning the advisability of having pumps placed at the Mill bridge (in
Hanover street over Blackstone street) , to be used in case of fire. Those
gentlemen urged upon the town to fix one pump on each side and tM^o at the
drawbridge (in North street), one of which they recommended being placed
in the house lately erected at the Mill bridge for the engine given by Hon.
John Hancock. The cost of each pump amounted to £7. They also thought
it necessary to place another pump almost midway between the first bridge
on the south-west side of the creek, as there were a large number of wooden
buildings in that neighborhood, and as few had wells, reliance had to be had
in the creek for a supply of water in case of fire.
March 24, a fire occurred at Mr. Loring's house on Middle street (Han-
over street), at which Engine 2 won the premium. Engine 7 applied for this
IDrize, but was refused. The fire at the Custom-House during March was
first attended by Engine 5.
On Sunday, April 4, a fire originated in the cabinet shop of Mr. Alex-
ander Edwards, located near the Mill pond. (The westerly part of Salem
street, also Hawkins and Green streets, extended into this pond. It was
filled up by the Boston Mill Corporation from soil obtained from Beacon
Hill on May 14, 1804. The filling of the pond and grading of the land added
about fifty acres of building lands to Boston, from which now proceeds all
the railroads leading north.) Six or seven other buildings were destroyed by
this fire, including the first church built by the Scandinavians, that stood at
the foot of a lane "leading to the Mill Fond somewhere between the two
Baptists Meeting Houses." After the burning of their church, this sect met
for a time in a Latin school-house, then in Mr. S. Townsend's house, in
Cross street, until a house was erected for them in the rear of Middle street.
But they so diminished in numbers that in 1823 their meetings were discon-
tinued, and the building used as a primary school.
E. Rairy took John Milladge's place on Engine 9, April 7. On May 12
John Richards succeeded J. Brown on Engine 1 ; June 9, C. Engelstrora
joined Engine 5 ; at the same date Mr. Townsend took B. Burdit's place on
Engine 9. The new engine, Hancock, No. 10, was granted two awards on
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 81
the 2d, — one for a fire at a house in Cold lane (Portland street), the other at
Ed. Shay's. Benjamin Visey, Nath. Bradlee, and Thomas Wlieeler were
admitted on Engine 8, August 4, vice J. Crowley, J. Ford, S. Haden, and
J. McFadden, discharged. On the 11th John Grindly joined the company;
Benjamin Houghton and John Griffith became members of Engine 7 on
the 18th, vice J. Rogers and W. Hersey. On November 28 James Biard and
Jonathan Brown took the place of Ballard, Jr., and J. Brown on Engine 1.
A fire on Charter street this month gave Engine 2 the award. The last tire of
the year occurred during December, at a house of Mr. Margot's, Southick's
court (Howard street). Engine 6 was the luclcy one.
On March 2, 1774, another change is made in the list of members of
Engine 9. John Crosby, William Stevens, John Roulstom, Jr., and Samuel
Breading are admitted members, and on the same date E. Thomas joins
Hancock Engine 10.
The changes for this year in the Board of Firewards were Capt. John
Pulling, vice J. M. Wendell, deceased ; Mr. Caleb Davis, vice A. Hill, and
David Cheever, vice John Hancock, resigned on account of ill-health.
Captain Ballard, of Engine 1, sends in his resignation as foreman of
that company on April 13, as he intended moving out of town. Mr. Joshua
Bentley was appointed to take command, after which he made the following
change in the members : Newbury Clough, William Dwyer, and John Ballard,
Jr., were admitted, and J. Richardson dismissed.
A new street was laid out this year near the ruins of the fire of 1767,
which is now North Centre street. It was then called Paddy's alley.
One of the most terrible fires that is thus far recorded in the history of
the department, from the extent of the loss of life, occurred on Wednesday,
August 10, at about 10.30 at night. The fire was discovered in a large
brick dwelling-house located on Fish street, five or six doors north of Mount-
fort's corner, at the foot of North square (now the corner of North and
Fleet streets), and owned by Mr. Millilcen and Mrs. Campbell. The lower
part of the house was a mass of flames before the occupants of the upper
floor were aware of their terrible danger. Several escaped by jumping
from the windows, some of whom, being considerably burned, were destitute
of clothing, while thiee women and two children perished in the flames. The
house was entirely consumed, and a bakehouse adjoining was badly burned.
" Earl Percy politily offered the service of some soldiers who could be
depended upon, but was informed that the regulations of the town rendered
their assistance unnecessary." Engine 3 was the first to throw water.
Captain Jenkins, of Engine 3, resigns his position on this company on
December 7, and is succeeded by Mr. Elias Robinson.
82 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTEK YII.
1775-1789.
rr^HE first fire for the year 1775 began in January, at the distil-house of
-■- Colonel Jackson. Engine 8 was the favored one. February '22^ Thomas
Jackson succeeded Ed. Reues on Engine 9. Captain Frankland, of this com-
pany, died during this month, and was succeeded by Richard Hunnewell.
More changes occurred on the Board of Firewards this year than for any time
since the office was established. Messrs. Ezekiel Cheever, Stephen Cleverly,
Thomas Crafts, Jr., Ebenezer Hancock, Capt. Samuel Barrett, and Abiel
Ruddock were elected, vice J. T^^ler, A. Paddock, S. Adams, M. Gay, J.
Coffin, and D. Cheever.
Engine 2 was first at the fire at the house of William King, at the North
End, during March. Joseph Smith took John Crosby's place on Engine 9,
April 5 ; and on the 12th Captain Shark, of Engine 2, after a service of four-
teen years, resigns liis position, and is succeeded by Joab Hunt. A com-
mittee, consisting of William Scollay, W. Austin, and Colonel Marshall, \^"ere
ordered to inspect all the engines.
On May 17 a fire broke out on the south side of the town dock, in the
building occupied as barracks by the British troops ; one of the buildings
belonged to John Hancock. For ten days previous there had been a report
circulated that the Liberty party intended to fire the town. The general had
taken the alarm, and took the engine under his care, and appointed new
captains, "when the engine-men took umbrage and left the service, — a fact
indicative of the patriotic spirit of the firemen of 1775. " Soon as I observed
the fire," says a Bostonian, " the bells not ringing, I cried ' fire ; ' but was
stopped by a soldier, who said it was against orders, and who threatened to
knock my brains out if I did not keep still. When I arrived at the fire there
was no engine. I asked the reason of such extraordinary delay, and was
told by an engine-man that he had been to his engine, but the bayonets were
too thick. After the fire had been long raging the engines arrived with their
new captains and military firewards, and not being used to such an enemy,
they, indeed, cut a miserable figure. Upon the whole, it appears to me as
plain as the meridian sun that, if the engines had been on the old footing, the
fire would have been quenched and £20,000 saved. A large quantity of pro-
visions, generously contributed by the patriotic friends of Boston for the
relief of the Inhabitants laboring under the oppressive Port Bill, were also
destroyed." This conflagration originated from the bursting of some car-
tridges, and before the fire was extinguished thirty buildings were destroyed.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 83
The fires of the Revolution are not mentioned in the town records ; but we
learn from other sources that the Provincials attacked and burnt a house on
the Neck containing nnplements of war. Major Vose, of Heath's Regiment,
burnt a light-house on Point Shirley, July 12, and the British, in return,
routed out and burnt the George Tavern, on Dover street.
In mentioning these fires we must not omit that which happened on the
17th of June at Charlestown. On this glorious day the foe fired the town
in several places, which consumed a meeting-house, a court-house, a prison,
two work-houses, two school-houses, and three hundred and eighty buildings,
together with a large amount of property belonging to the unfortunate citizens
of Boston, who had removed it to Charlestown for safety. The people of
that town lost all their furniture and household effects by this wanton and
barbarous act of His Majesty's troops. We do not learn that any great
efforts were made to check the devouring element, and it is probable that
the citizen soldiers of Boston and Charlestown were too seriously engaged in
other and more important " fires " on Bunker Hill.
The record of this department as kept by the selectmen is an entire blank
during 1776, except it be the appointment of firewards. Those chosen were
Capt. Caleb Hopkins, Capt. Isaac Phillips, Paul Revere, and Thomas Tilestou,
in the place of F. Shaw, J. Prince, E. Cheever, and S. Cleverly.
The British evacuated the town March 17, 1776, but continued their
devastations on Castle William ; but it does not appear that they accomplished
their work, and left the harbor several days after, as a diarist states that
" on the 22 of March, five days later, Castle William was burnt to ashes and
destroyed."
The first fire recorded for 1777 occurred at the house of Dr. Churches,
during February, by which Engine 9 gained the premium. Maj. Andrew
Symms, Capt. Gustavus Fellows, Capt. Joseph Webb, Capt. John Ballard, Mr.
Francis Shaw, and Mr. Jolm Wiuthrop were elected firewards for 1777, vice
Thomas Marshall, Benjamin Waldo, Captain Barretts, A. Ruddock, C. Hop-
kins, and J. Phillips, On Monday, March 31, a small house at the south
part of the town, used as a soap-work, was burnt.
After the evacuation of the troops the companies were ordered, on
September 10, to be filled up with their usual equipment of members. It is
unfortunate that we have not the names of the brave fellows of this depart-
ment who lost their lives during this struggle for liberty. We know, how-
ever, that three foremen did not I'eturu to duty, — Captain Norcross, of
Engine 6, who was succeeded by George Ridgway ; Capt. Benjamin Wheeler,
of Engine 10, having been succeeded by Jono. Champney ; and Captain Hews,
of Engine 5, John Holland taking his place.
Captain Uran, of Engine 4, was paid his bounty for arriving first at the
fire at the jail, December 3 ; he was also paid for a fire at Wing's lane (Elm
street). Wednesday evening, December 11, the barracks located on Cobble
Hill were burned by the British prisoners who were confined there. For the fire
84 BISTORT OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
of January, 1778, we record that which consumed the stately edifice located
in Frog lane (Boylston street), built fifty years earlier by Peter Chardon, but
then occupied by John Carter, Esq. The fire originated in one of the chambers
about 9 o'clock on the evening of the 15th, and burnt so rapidly that very
little of the furniture was saved. A barn on the premises was also destroyed,
and had it not been that the snow was very deep on the roofs of the houses, a
terrible conflagration would have resulted ; as it was, the several buildings
caught, but the flames were extinguished before much damage was done.
Engine 9 was first on hand. Another fire occurred at William Sheraden's
house. West End ; Engine 6 was awarded the bounty.
Engine No. 10 was awarded two premiums during March, — one for a
fire at E. Blanchard's house. Green lane (Salem street), the other at Widow
Smith's, on Sea street (Federal street). Only one change occurred in the
Board of Firewards for 1778, — Major Greenough resigned, and was suc-
ceeded by Mr. John Lowell.
The engine-men, although exempt by law from military duty, were drafted
into the army of the Revolution by an act passed February 16, by which
their number was reduced to one hundred and thirty men. This question was
seriously taken into consideration by the firewards, who filed a petition at
the town-meeting to have a committee appointed to investigate the matter.
The committee being organized made the following report on January 26 : —
That they have conferred Avith the captains of the several engine companies and find
that nothing short of a total exemption from all military duty will be sufficient to satisfy
and encourage the men belonging to those companies. They would therefore propose
that application be made to the General Court, that, in consideration of the great quantity
of stores belonging to the States and continent stored in this town, together with the valu-
able Buildings the property of the State, the Enginemen necessary for the town under
these circumstances may be deducted from the number of the inhabitints & not subject to
raise their proportion of any draughts of men or do any Military Duty excepting in case of
alarm when they are ready to appear & do their duty as the law directs. And as a further
encouragement the committee propose that the premium for the engine company who first
bring their engines to work upon any Fire which sliall break out in any building in this
town shall be advanced to Three Pounds lawful money.
Engine 11 was the first at the fire during March, at Mr. Porter's house.
The next month a barn in Royal Exchange alley (Exchange street) was
burned ; Engine 4 was on hand. Engine 9 was first at the next fire that
occurred, during May, at the house of William Newhouse, at South End. A
fire at Mr. White's, at North End, during June gave Engine 3 the award.
The following month Engine 9 was given the bounty for a blaze at Mrs.
Clarke's bouse. South End. Engine 6 was at the fire at Mr. Prynghbie's
house, West End.
Three fires are recorded for January, 1779. The 17th, Peter Chardon's
house and a house at West End were reached first by Engine 6 ; a dwelling on
Cow lane (High street) was put out by Engine 11. Maj. Thomas Melvill
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 85
was chosen a fireward this year in the room of Colonel Crafts, being the only
change in that board.
The small fires for the rest of this year were : January, a house at West
End, Engine 6. April, Mary Wyland's house. South End, Engine 9 ; Mr.
T3'ler's house, Engine 7 ; and Mr. Phillips' house, near the South Church,
Engine 5. June, house in Seven Star lane (Hawley street), Engine 11.
Captain Curtis, of Engine 8, applies for a new house, July 14. A committee
was appointed to investigate. November, fire at Mr. Bowchoton's, in Black
Horse lane (Prince street), also at Captain Dudd's house, in the rear ; Engine
3. December, AVidow Sears' house, Engine 8 ; Mr. Huckley's house. Engine
9 ; Dr. Mather's, North End, Engine 2 ; and Major Cunningham's house,
South End, Engine 9.
Monday, January 10, 1780, a fire broke out in the lower store on Han-
cock wharf, which communicated to a ship belonging to Thomas Ruffle and
S. Higginsou. The new frigate " Protector" also caught on fire, but was not
much damaged. Another fire broke out at the jail, during Januar}'. Engine
4 was there first. The South Writing School, Mr. Holbrooks, teacher, was
burned ; one person was prosecuted for disobeying the firewards, and fined
£4 7s., at this fire. February 28, the sign of the Lamb Tavern was also on
fire. Engine 9 received both premiums*
Col. Jabez Hatch succeeded Col. Paul Revere as a fireward for 1780.
Engine 10 was awarded for fires at Mr. W. Numbless' house. Middle street
(Hanover street), Mr. Ballard's dwelling iu Cross street, and Mr. Pulcifer's
house in Middle street, during March.
The house of Engine 1 was repaired on April 19. William Darricut suc-
ceeded Thomas Atkins, Jr., on Engine No. 2, May 17. A fire at Messrs.
Pain & Miller's warehouse gave Engine 3 the bounty during June.
On Wednesday, September 20, at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, a large
fire broke out on Long wharf, which destroyed the warehouse of Messrs.
Pitts & Call, and Mr. S. Eliot's tobacco store, the commissary store, and.
several other buildings. It happened at high water, otherwise the whole
range of warehouses would have been consumed. October 24, the firewards
complained of Captains Curtis, of Engine 8, and Holland, of Engine 5, for
bad behavior, and on examination by the selectmen t'ney declared their inten-
tion of giving no offence, on which they were excused. November 6, Joseph
Daniels and Samuel Todd were admitted members of Engine 6.
No change in the Board of Firewards occurred during 1781. Joseph
Pason, Jacob Gould, and E. Thayer joined Engine 8 on April 18.
On June 27 the masters of all the engines applied for a resolve to be
prepared in the General Court, similar to the one applied by the military act.
Engine 6 was given the prize on September 9 for the fire at Captain Crap's
house, on Sudbury street.
Capt. William Sutton, after a service of twenty-six years, resigned from
the department on account of old age, on October 3. Sutton is second on the
86 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
record for long service as foreman ia one company. He was succeeded by
Joel Gushing as foreman of the company. A photograph of his badge will
be seen in the engraving on page 43. The rim and figure of this badge is of
pure silver, the background is of enamelled leather, size over all 4J X 3J
inches. It was the style adopted by the department at that time.
Engine 6 was first at the fire at Mr. Inches' house. West End, during
October.
No change is reported on the list of firewards for 1782. A. Caswell
joined Engine 6, vice S. Todd, April 24. A fire at the house of Mr. Weaver,
near Liberty Tree, in September, gave Engine 9 the bounty.
On November 6 John Cade and Jacob Clough succeeded Henry Snuff
and T. Badger on Engine 2. This company was at the same time awarded
the prize for a fire at the house of C. Brew, in White Bread alley (Bartlett
street).
Captain Curtis, of Engine 8, was again complained of by the firewards,
in consequence of which he was discharged November 27, and Joseph Lover-
ing took command of the engine.
A fire in Pudding lane during December was extinguished by Engine 9.
Wednesday, the 25th, a large fire occurred at the North Spice Mills, near
Charles river. The building, together with a large quantity of grain, cocoa,
chocolate, ginger, etc., was entirely destroyed. The flames communicated to
a barn and two stores, which were soon laid in ashes. Engine 3 had first
water on this fire.
The first appointments for the year 1783 were Joner Wheeler, John
Stingman, Elisa March, and Obe Curtis, on Engine 8.
Firewards Proctor and Melvill recommended, on January 29, that sleds
be provided for the engines instead of wheels, as by this means they could
reach a fire much quiclcer. This suggestion was adopted.
January 27, a fire broke out in the hat-store of Mr. Adams, opposite the
sign of the Lamb Tavern (on Washington, near Milk street). Part of the
stock was burnt. Engine 9 was the fortunate one. Joseph Hutchings took
J. Ridgway's place on Engine 6, March 19.
Five changes occurred in the Board of Firewards this year, as follows :
Capt. Isaac Phillips, Col. Josiah Waters, Mr. Jacob Rhodes, Capt. Eben
Parsons, and Mr. J. Coffin Jones, vice J. Pulling, E. Hancock, A. Symms,
I. Ballard, and J. Winthrop. Joseph Ilolbrook succeeded Tliomas Pounds on
Engine 11, on March 26. A fire at Gold's barber-house, in Southick's court,
was put out by Engine 6 during April. Robert Newman took John Fuller's
place in the same company. May 21, and Phillip Willdenway succeeded J.
Wheeler on Engine 9, July 2.
Another order regarding chimneys was passed at the town-meeting
January 13, 1783, whereby every occupant of a house must have each chim-
ney of his house swept at least three times per year, on penalty of 10s.
'"They shall pay for the service to the chimney comptroller the following
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 87
rates: For each fuunel of five stories, 1, 8, 6; four stories, 1, 8, 4; tlaree
stories, 1, 8, 2. For all others, Is."
A fire occurred at Mr. Riley's store during August. Engine 3 was on
hand. On the 24th, between 2 and 3 o'clock in the morning, fire broke out in
a barn occupied by Mr. Crane, wharfinger, near Oliver's dock. Before assist-
ance arrived it was levelled to the ground. The flames communicated to five
other barns lying in its course, also the dwelling of Mr. Jeremiah Russell
and the store of lion. William Phillips, which were totally destroyed. Nine
horses and a large quantity of merchandise were burned The engine from
Roxbury rendered assistance. Two men, — one named Moses Bailey, — having
just arrived in town from Hanover, were, with their wives, passing the ruins,
when a chimney fell, burying the two men, killing Mr. Bailey instantly ; the
other died the next day. During the fire several men were caught trying to
break into the store of William Foster. It was therefore supposed that the
fire was of incendiary origin. Another fire was discovered the same day in
the cellar of Mr. Townshend, carpenter, located near the Old State-House, but
was extinguished without much damage.
On March 1 the Legislature passed an order forbidding the storage in
buildings of loaded fire-ai-ms as being dangerous to those who assist at a fire.
The fire-arms included cannon, swivels, mortars, howitzers, Coehorns, bombs,
grenades, and iron shells, which, on seizure, would be sold at auction. On
October 27 the following act was passed by the same body : — .
Whereas by a Resolve of the General Court, passed Feb. 16, 1778, the number of
Men exempted from military duty and allowed for the Engine in the Town of Boston was
reduced to one hundred and thirty eight on account of the War, and as it is not now nes-
■Bary that the said Resolve should remain in force — Therefore —
Resolved that the Resolve aforesaid be and it is hereby repealed and the number of
One hundred and seventy one men allowed for the several Engines in the Town of Boston
and to be subject to the same regula'" and entitled to the same exemptions as they were
before the commencement of the late War with Great Britan.
A paragraph appeared in the newspapers this year, as follows : " Method
to put out a fire in a chimney : Take a buclcet of water, throw it on the fire
suddenly, when the damp steam or smoke will immediatel}^ put the fire all out."
A fire occurred in Mr. Riley's store during July, when Engine 3 was
given the bounty ; also for one in a building near the Town-House. Engine 2
was awarded during August for a fire near Winnesimmet. The wells in the
town were inspected about this time.
Some trouble must have occurred in the Board of Firewards for 1784,
as we find that John Scollay, F. Shaw, E. Proctor, J. Lowell, and T. Mil-
vill asked to be excused from further service on the board. They were
succeeded by Capt. J. Ballard, Joseph Russell, Jr., Paul D. Sargent, Capt.
Mungo Mackay, Mr. Joseph Clark, and Andrew Symms ; but the following
year some of them being voted for, accepted, and served for a long time.
88 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPARTMENT.
Engine 6 was first at the fire on Temple street during February. William
Draker joined Engine 2, July 28. Monday, June 14, at 8 A.M., a fire broke
out in the spermaceti works, erected at the bottom of Cold lane (Portland
street), which, in short time, was almost wholly destroyed. Three other
buildings were on fire at the same time ; but by the vigilance of the in-
habitants, and having plenty of water, it was soon extinguished.
January 5, 1785, Seth Webber and Thomas Page succeeded Dick and
John Bouv6 on Engine 2. During this month a fire occurred in a bakehouse
at the North End. Engine 3 put it out. AYilliam Chester took the place of
J. Foster on Engine 11, March 2.
The votes for firewards for 1785 resulted in the following choice: John
Winthrop, John Lowell, Thomas Melvill, Samuel Breck, Henry Bass, and
John May, vice C. Davis, J. Waters, E. Parsons, J. Russell, D. D. Sargent,
and M, Mackay.
The chocolate mill occupied by Mr. Welch, located at the North End,
was burnt with all its stock on April 15. Engine 3 was given the premium.
On May 12 a petition was sent in to the selectmen by several gentlemen
relative to establishing a fire-office insurance company, which matter was
referred to the Board of Firewards. These gentlemen on the 23d reported that
it would not be for the advantage of the town to have such an institution
established as fire insurance, which resolve was accepted. This is the first
mention of an enterprise of this kind on the records. In the article under
the heading Protective Department in this volume will be found the progress
of fire-insurance business fully detailed.
Captain Sloan, of Hancock Engine, resigns his trust on June 1, and is
succeeded by Enoch James. Monday, September 12, the roof of 'k building
near Concert Hall caught fire by a defective chimney, but was soon quenched.
September 16, the premium for the first engine at a fire was increased to
twenty shillings lawful money.
John Richardson, Jr., joined Engine 2, January 11, 1786. On Engine 7
Henry Davidson and Oliver AViswell succeeded Eben Torey and T. Ruggles,
February 15. Peter McTouch, James Tate, and John Dent are appointed in
the place of E. Gushing, J. Crosby, M. Eagres, on Engine 11, on the same
date.
Monday, March 13, the dwelling-house of John Fenno, at the corner of
Bromfield lane and Marlborough street (Bromfield and Washington streets),
caught fire, but was extinguished before much damage was done. Engine 7
was on the spot first.
Captain Phillips and Captain Fellows were succeeded on the Board of
Firewards by Hon. Caleb Davis and Col. P. D. Sargent. A slight fire in
Royal Exchange lane during March was extinguished by Engine 5. On the
31st an old wooden tenement in Cambridge street caught on fire, but was con-
fined to that building. It was caused by the carelessness of a negro servant.
Mr. Minot's barn was also burnt this month ; Engine 6 was given the award.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 89
Engine 9 was first at the fire in Broad alley daring the same month, and
Engine 2 was supplied with two new pieces of hose.
For the month of April several fires are reported. A blaze in a chair manu-
factory on Prince street was put out by Engine 3 ; another at Mr. Breck's
distil-house, South End, by which Engine 8 was given the money ; while
Horse Head Tavern, on Cross street, needed the services of Engine 2 to save
it from being destroyed. Eleven ladders were ordered for the department on
April 19, which were distributed to the engines ; these ladders had the num-
ber of the engine to which they belonged. Thomas Green, Samuel Weelis, and
Hugh Cargill were admitted on Engine 6, the 26th. Engine 8 rendered first
assistance at a fire at the house of Mr. Wheeler, at the South End, during May.
On the 24th Engine 10 was supplied with two new pipes.
Tuesday, June 13, a large new blacksmith shop, eighty feet long, located
near Tudor's wharf, the property of Mr. James, was completely consumed by
fire. Engine 1 was given the premium. Another fire broke out on Thursday
night, July 9, in a building that was being erected by the town in Market
square for a fish market, to be known as Pullin Building. Many carpenters
lost their tools in this fire. It was supposed to have been of incendiary origin,
and a reward of SlOO was offered by the selectmen, which sum was increased
to $500 by vote of the town-meeting, for the apprehension of the guilty per-
son ; but he was never discovered, however.
A fire at the town dock during July was extinguished by Engine 10, and
one at Captain Freeman's house was put out by Engine 6 the same month.
Firewards Davis and Tileston recommended to the town that long poles and
buckets be provided and placed with the engine company, to be used in case
of fire. These articles were supplied on August 30. Capt. E. Robinson, of
Engine 3, was succeeded by William Brown on November 7, and Nicholas
Pierce took command of Engine 9, vice Captain Hunnewell, the same date;
the latter company was given a prize for a fire in Broad alley during this
month. Engine 7 was at the fire in the calf tanyard at the same time. At
the request of Captain Urau, of Engine 4, December 12, the engines were
placed on runners.
The first change for 1787 occurred in the company of Engine 11, January
10, when John Taylor was admitted in the place of T. Foster. Fire at Mr.
Gorey's house, this month, was put out by Engine 9. March 28, Benjamin
Barnes succeeds R. Lash on Engine 2. Only one change is reported in the
Board of Firewards for the year, — Caleb Davis resigns in favor of Mr. Eben-
ezer Hancock.
Sunday, February 12, the house of Mr. Torrey, located near the Common,
took fire from a defective flue and was badly damaged. Much trouble was
experienced in obtaining water, as the pumps were frozen. A notice was
issued immediately after to owners of pumps to clear them of the chill water
at 10 P.M., so they would not freeze before morning. Another fire broke
out on the 19th, at the jail, it being set by some prisoners. It was put out
90 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
with little damage. On April 10 William Moat succeeded Ed. Brat on
Engine 7.
The town had, by this time, almost completely recovered from the effects
of the disastrous fire of 1767 and the large one preceding it, and was in a most
flourishing state. The inhabitants had ample faith in the then supposed
powerful fire department, and thought that anotlier such scene as they had
witnessed at the time could not occur in their midst. They, therefore, were
wholly unprepared for the disastrous fire that burst upon them on April 19,
1787. Dr. Belknap, in a letter to Mr. Hazard, on April 23, says of this
conflagration : —
Now My Dear Sir, I will give you some account of the Fire Friday evening. I
could (as is usual in such cases) tell you of what I did, where I was, and how I worked,
and waded through the Dock at low water, and all that, but I believe a general account,
with a small plan or sketch will be as much as you will want to have. I was on the spot
the next day and with my pencil marked its progress, a copy of which I will enclose.
[See page 91.] The wind was a dry Northeaster and had prevailed two days, the houses
with only one or two exceptions, wooden and shingled. It began in a Malt "house, and had
there been no wind, the malt and dwelling house adjoining, would have silently consumed,
without further Alischief, and about 100 legs of bacon which were taken in to smoke,
would have been all tlie general damage. But the wind carried the flakes of fire over the
dock into some barns and dock houses adjoining to the Main street, and so rapid and
irresistible was its progress that between six and seven [o'clock] in the evening it destro3'^ed
between 70 and 80 dwelling houses, with Mr. Wights Rectory [Ebenezer Wight, minister
of the Hollis-street Church] as far as there was anything to be burned; and had the Town
extended ten or twenty miles in that direction and wooden houses in the way, dry as they
were, the fire would have been equally as extensive. No lives were lost though much
substance; but I have the pleasure to assure you that a very curious and valuable Orrery,
constructed by Mr. Pope, watchmaker, was carefully and happily saved. Dr. Byles
house was in imminent danger, his hords of books, instruments, papers, prints etc were
dislodged in one hour from a fifty year quietness to a helter skelter heap in an adjoining
pasture. He removed for the night to a neighbors house and returned the next day. This
morning I made him a third visit since the fire. One of his daughters observed that her
papa was the first thing they thought of moving; upon this he began, to distinguish
between persons and things, and would have brought in a long criticism, if I had not
changed the discourse to some inquiries about the great fire in the year 1711, which he
remembered. You know he is a curiosity. April 25 By an account taken by the select-
men the loss sustained by the fire was 56 dwellings, 13 stores, a Meeting House, 8 barns,
and 86 families burnt out, loss of property in round numbers $20,000.
The Boston " Centinel" gives the following account : —
The loss at the late fire in house furniture, bedding and other articles, together with
goods and effects was very great, and with the loss of so many valuable dwelUngs, loudly
calls upon the benevolent and humane, to afford their aid in alleviating the distresses of
the unfortunate sufferers. We are happy however in informing the publick, that amidst the
destruction a curious specimen of art and industry was luckily preserved, which does
honor to the country. We mean the Orerry, constructed by Mr. Joseph Pope. This
admirable performance, the result of many years labor and study, is near 6 feet in dia-
meter and was almost finished when the house of the artist with most of his effects were
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
91
ta^c«/*w-
Dk. Belknap's Map of Burnt District, Fire APiuh 19, 1787.
92
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
ill a few moments reduced to aslies. Mucli praise is due to those gentlemen who, by their
exertions preserved to the lovers of Science this curi6us specimen of philosophies and
mechanical ingenuity, and deposited it at the house of his Excellency the Governor where
we are told it still remains. The light of the fire was plainly seen at Newburyport and
several toAvns near 50 Miles distant.
The following is a more accurate list of the persons burned out and the principal
buildings that were burnt.
On the East side of Orange St. [ Washington street, above Dover street.'}
William Patten,
Samuel Heyley,
Mrs. Searl,
Spencer Vose,
Josiah Henshaw, Esq.
John Fairservice,
Peter Lehr,
Joseph Field,
Nathaniel Phillips,
Nathaniel Sheppard,
Mrs. Segar,
Mrs. Inches,
Thos. Jackson,
Thos. Downing,
Misses Johonnot,
House of the late Zechariah
Johonnot,
Joseph Lovering,
Nathaniel Bosworth,
House Pulled down,
Henry Stevens,
Aaron May,
Henry Guyer,
Wm. Wyman,
Ebenezer "Waters,
Mrs. Guyer K.i^ows
Mrs. Guyer )
Joshua Wyette,
Mrs. Wyman,
Josiah Knapp,
Daniel Bates,
John Fenno,
Dennis Welch,
Dorothy Whorton,
Mrs. Amorv,
Mrs. Crawford,
William Stretch,
Mrs. Swift.
Ebenezer Pope,
Joseph Bradford,
Edy Vennivel,
Mrs. Emery,
Mrs. Hopkins,
Mrs. Wales.
Mrs. Scott,
Elijah Searl.
On the West side of Orange St.
Wm. Gooch,
Fredrick Incley,
Thos. Stell,
Wm. Penniman, Jr.
Robert Price,
Mrs. Connant,
Mrs. Emmons,
Andrew Gardner,
Thos. Foster,
Joseph Pope,
Robert Pope,
John Pope,
Andrew Kalley.
Hopstill Foster,
Mrs. Cheever,
Arthur Langford,
Joseph Pierce,
George Guyer,
Joseph Clark,
Joseph Sprague,
Rev. Mr. Wright's Meeting
house (Hollis-street Church).
Jacob Gould,
Spencer Bates,
Richard Gridley,
Josiah Goddard,
Joseph Goddard.
Ad account in the London (England) " Morning Clironicle " says : —
April 20, 1787, a fire broke out in Boston, N.E., in the south part of the Town,
and before it could be extinguished, consumed one church and about 100 other buildings.
The wind was high and wafted the blazing shingles to a great distance. Contributions
were forwarded by Captain T. Barnard, of the ship Mary, which sailed May 31.
Lafayette, on June 22, wrote a letter of sympathy for Boston in her loss,
and directed Samuel Beck to pay 200 guineas on his account to the
sufferers. A petition was sent to the General Court by the sufferers for
relief. Engine 8 had the honor of putting first water on the fire.
Other fires and the engines that were awarded for being first on hand during
the year were : Messrs. Brick and Sheppard's house, Engine 2 ; a dwelling of
a negro, Engine 9; a vessel in Mill creek, Engine 10, in July; Mr. Cros-
well's meeting-house, October 11, Engine 7; the same engine at Lieutenant-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 93
Governor's house, during December ; liquor saloon in Back street, and Mr.
Rumley's house in Middle street, Engine 10, the same month. The changes
in companies were : May 16, Engine 7, James Tucker and Joseph Francis,
vice Eben Evans and Stephen Olliver ; August 22, Ed. Dolbear, vice J. Gray.
J. Bridge, member of Engine 8, August 9. Captain Uran retired from his
position as master of Engine 4, on October 10, on account of old age, and was
succeeded by James Rogers.
September 19, Engine 1 was removed from North square to Hanover street,
and on October ol Engine 4 was moved from the dock to the drawbiidge,
in Ann street (Hanover street), and a new house built for it, the old one
being too old to be removed, and was rented to a butcher for £3 per year.
Engine 5 was thoroughly repaired, November 21.
Capt. J. Holland, of Engine 5, was succeeded as foreman of that com-
pany, on February 6, 1788, by Timothy Pease. The other changes in the
service during the year were: Robert Pattsage, on Engine 2, vice D. Lilley,
February 20, Captain Gushing, of Engine 7, was succeeded by Edmund Ran-
ger, June 10. Captain Rogers, of Engine 4, also leaves the department, and
Joseph Whittemore assumes command of his company, August 27.
The same Board of Fire wards were elected.
Only a few fires are reported for this year ; they are of very little impor-
tance. March, Mr. Davis' house. Engine 5 ; Widow Crowe's house, in Pleas-
ant street. Engine 8. April, Mr. Hemmeuway's house. Back street (Salem
street). Engine 2. October, Mr. Adams' house, North End, Engine 3.
Wednesday, November 11, a stable, the property of T. Hill, located on
Essex street, was set on fire by some shavings that were lighted a short distance
from it.
Engine 3 was moved from the house on North Bennett street to a house
on Salem street. May 26.
In the list of firewards we find the following changes for the year 1789 :
Caleb Da%'is, Thomas Russell, Joseph Russell, Jr., David Hubbard, Samuel
Parkman, vice Hancock, Symmes, Ballard, Sewell, and Bass ; but Mr. Ballard
was reappointed in the place of Colonel Sargent, and Mr. Edward Edes
took Colonel Proctor's place, both of whom resigned. Tuesday, March 4,
a fire was discovered in a barn near the Old South Meeting-house, the
property of Rev. Mr. Exleys, but was soon extinguished by Engine 7. The
other fires and premiums .for the year were : May, Joseph Rugles' house,
South End, Engine 8. June, a building on Averie's wharf, Engine 9 ;
Mr. Newell's house. West End, Engine 6. December, Wentworth wharf,
Mr. Ross' house. Cross street, and Mr. Phillips' house, Middle street ; Engine
10 for the last three.
Forty-five pounds sterling were appropriated by the town on November
11 for a new engine, to be built by Mr. Norton, to take the place of No. 2.
Engine 6 was repaired ; also the engine-house at the Mill bridge, on Decem-
ber 7.
94 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Only two changes in the companies occurred, — Timothy Tileston suc-
ceeded J. Stimpson on Engine 8, April 4, and Roland Campbell, vice D.
Lilley, Engine 2, May 20.
The following advertisement appeared in the Boston " Centinel,"
November 14, 1789: —
Richard Mason. Fire Engine Warranted for 7 years, and sold as cheap as can be
procured in Europe,. Manufactured in Philadelphia. A list of fire engines and Prices. First
rate : contains 80 gals, throws water 80 feet, requires 6 men to work it. Price £40. 2^^
rate contains 100 Gals throws water 100 feet, requires 8 men, cost £60. 3"^ rate —
contains 120 gals throws 120 feet, requires 10 men to work it. Cost £72. 4"^ rate contains
150 gals, throws 150 ft. requires 14 Men, cost £100.
MI 8 TOBY OF BOSTON FIBE DEPABTMENT. 95
CHAPTER YIII.
1790-1799.
rpHE record for the year 1790 began with the enky of the resignation of
-L Captain Hunt, of Engine 2, who is succeeded on January 6 by Gibbon
Bouv6, an old drummer in the army. On the same date Captain Ridgway, of
Engine 6, is succeeded by Mr. Matthew Nazro. J. C. Burteman took the
place of D. Jacobs in this company February 16, which is the only change
for the year. The list, as sent in to the selectmen, of the entire department
was as follows : —
Engine 1, Capt. William Brown, eighteen members: James Robbins,
Orcut Shaw, Newbury Clough, William Dyer, William Alexander, Elijah
Swift, William Capen, Larrabee Edes, J. Lombard, John Hutchinson, Richard
Richardson, Charles Willis, Micah Oi'cutt, Zachariah Hall, Samuel White,
Robert Allcock, and Edward Bell.
Engine 2, Capt. William Nazro, twelve men : William Darricott, John
Cades, E. Nathaniel Nuttage, James Freeland, Jacob Clow, Benjamin Barns,
William Lait, Seth Webber, Thomas Page, John Richardson, and Robert
Partridge.
Engine 3, Capt. Elias Robertson, fourteen members : John Robertson,
David Greenleaf , Nathaniel Tidmarsh, William Minzies, James Francis, Eben
Chandler, Thomas Richardson, Benjamin Abrahams, William Bell, Benjamin
West, John Hooton, Francis Berth, Jacob Hyler.
Engine 4, Capt. Joseph Whittemore and eleven men : Samuel Sumner,
Joseph Urann, Jonathan Seargeut, George Jeffers, John Garnel, William
Tuckerman, Jos. Barber, William Nickels, William Baker, Ed. Allen, and
Thomas Urann.
Engine 5, Capt. Timothy Pease, eleven men : Theodore Dehon, William
Rice, Ed. Mannin, Nathan Glover, Charles More, James Cleverly, Philip Went-
worth, Jno. Trask, Jonathan Trask, Jonathan Stoddard, and Braddock Loring.
Engine 6, Capt. Gebbins Bouv6, thirteen men : William Rouse, George
Nowell, David Jacobs, Daniel Brown, James Ridgway, Elijah Caswell, Joseph
Daniels, Robert Newman, James Hitchings, Samuel Weeks, Hugh Cargill,
and Daniel Gealey.
Engine 7, Capt. Edmund Ranger, nineteen men : Thomas Appleton,
Joel Gushing, Benjamin Horton, Joshua Bracket, Samuel Jenkins, John Bul-
finch, Nathaniel Jenkins, John Neat, Stephen Winters, John Moies, William
Appleton, James Tucker, Henry Davison, Jos. Francis, Oliver Wiswall, Vic-
tor Blair, William Meek, Edward Dolbear, and Henry Davidson.
96 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Engine 8, Capt. Joseph Levering, thirteen men : Robert Robinson,
John Fenno, J. Abijah Crane, Joseph Payson, Ephraim Tliayer, Joshua
Wheeler, Samuel Sprague, Joseph Sprague, Enoch May, John Spear, Samuel
Adams, Jeremiah Bridge, and Timothy Tileston.
Engine 9, Capt. Nicholas Pearce, fifteen men. Christian Bruzier, Jr.,
William Fenno, Nathan Wheeler, Thomas Stowell, Jonathan Hunnewell,
Philip Wild, Edwin French, Rufus Tower, William Stevens, William Hearsey,
Jr., Ebeuezer French, John Clark, William AVhite, Benjamin Fessenden, and
George Rex. •
Engine 10, Capt. Enoch James, fourteen men : James Tuksbury,
James Worth, Clement Collins, John How, Joseph Heminway, Thomas Lewis,
Gersham Thomas, William Badger, Turin Tuttle, Jacob Palley, Elijah Davis,
James Calendar, Bartholomew Nason, and John Wild.
Engine 11, Capt. John Champney, fifteen men: Jeffrey Richardson, Wil-
liam Ellison, Levi Ilersey, Nicholas Ferriter, Jireh Holbrook, Joseph Blako,
Ezra Parmenter, Jared Hill, Eben Hancock, William Clouston, Peter Mcin-
tosh, John Denton, John Taylor, B. French, and James Ferriter.
Amasa Davis, Samuel Whitwell, Russell Sturgis, Jonathan Mason, Jr.,
and John Sweetser were chosen on the Board of Firewards for the year 1 790,
vice Bullard, May, Hubbard, Parkman, and Cooper ; the latter having served
in that capacity for thirty-five years, declined a reelection.
In the Fire Commissioners' office at the City Hall are two journals of
the Board of Firewards, one being a complete list of the members, beginning
with 1 75 1 , also many of the laws concerning buildings and gunpoM^der ; the other
a register of their meetings from 1790. The latter begins with the following
rules and regulations : —
1. If any ward neglects to attend a fire be is to pay one dollar. 2. If any ward
leaves a fire without permission of two other wards, to paj' one dollar. 3. If any ward
is appointed to search for powder, and neglects to do so, to pay one dollar. 4. If any
Engine shall be carried from the fire without orders of two of the firewards, a joint com-
plaint to be made. 5. If any ward cannot give a satisfactory account of the condition
of the engine assigned to his charge, he shall pay one dollar.
The monthly meetings of the board were held at each others' houses ;
after hearing the report upon the condition of the engines, and despatching
what little business came before them, they spent the residue of the
evening in social enjoyment, and feasting on the delicacies of the season, —
thus awarding themselves, at their own expense, for the arduous and respon-
sible duties required in the hour of danger. It is probable that the following
vote was intended as a hint to some delinquent member of the board : —
March 11, 1793, Voted, that no one of the firewards, at whose house the company
shall meet for the ensuing year, shall in any wise despence with the following regulations,
Viz. : a sideboard to be placed in the room where the meeting is held, and covered with
cold roast beef, bacon and tongue and the fruits of the season, but no pastry of any kind.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 97
After the year 1796 their meetings were held at the various public hotels,
and judging from the amount of the bills, they did not go home unrefreshed.
The captains of the various engine companies, together with a town oflicial,
were always invited to their annual supper.
No large fires are reported this year, and very few small ones ; of these,
the following is a list : March, Mr. Thomas' house, Bennett street. June.,
Mr. Cooper's house, Engine 2. The ship " Lydia," Captain Tinkham, lying
at Long wharf, was totally destroyed December 8 ; Engine 5. Only one
change in the members — that of the appointment of Emerson Pierce in the
place of Capt. N. Pierce as foreman of P^ngiue 9 — is mentioned.
Engine-llouse 6, located on the land of Dr. Bulfiuch, on Hancock street,
was ordered by that gentleman, on April 14, to be removed.
Stanford's College, at AVest Boston, caught fire during January, 1791 ;
Engine 6 received the prize. The other fires for the year were : February, a
house in Quaker lane (Congress street). Engine 5. April, Joel Haynes' house,
Engine 9. August, Mr. Raymond's house, West End, Engine 6. June 26,
Mr. Sumner's house. Cold lane, struck by lightning. Engine 6. Sunday,
November 9, at 3 A.M., a fire was discovered in a lot of old houses in Marl-
borough street (Washington street) occupied b}' several colored families.
The buildings were entirely consumed.
General Henry Jackson succeeded J. Rhodes, and Samuel Parkman took
the place of H. Sweetser, in the Board of Firewards for 1791. The following
changes occurred in the department: Engine 1, Samuel Bell, Ben James,
Richard Holden, vice W. Dyer, E. Swift, and S. Hull, July 27. Engine 7,
Moses Ward, James Campbell, vice Muse and BulRnch. Engine 6, Fessenden,
vice J. Ridgway, September 20. Engine 4, Capt. J. Whittemore being-
dead, Mr. John Gaimnel was appointed foreman of the company, October
19. Engine 3, Capt. E. Robinson deceased, his sou John was promoted to
fill that position, December 21.
Fireward Tileston had an order passed, on August 3, to have Engine-
House 11 enlarged about six feet, so that there would be room to take the
engine to pieces when necessary.
The list of companies of the eleven engines sent to the selectmen met with
approval. They also informed the members that hereafter they would be
allowed to choose their own foremen in the month of May each year.
This was the beginning of- a custom that was so popular among the depart-
ment for a number of years.
The January, 1792, fire occurred on Monday, the 21st, near the North
Meeting-house, which, from the inclemency of the weather, threatened de-
struction to a considerable part of the town ; but through the exertions of the
departments from Charlestown and Roxbury, it extended no farther than
the house in which it originated, which was owned by Mrs. Jarvis, and the
building adjoining, owned by Deacon Holland. The Attorney-General and
several clergymen were present and rendered assistance.
98 HISTOEY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The General Court took further action in the matter of the storage of gun-
powder, on January 26, by which it was ordered that after August 1, next, na
powder was to be carried to or from the magazine within the town, exceeding
twenty-five pounds, except in a wagon closely covered with leather or canvas,
and without iron in any part ; this wagon was to be approved by the firewards,
and marked in capital letters, "APPROVED POWDER CARRIAGE."
All powder to be landed as the firewards directed, wiiich direction should be
published in the papers for six successive weeks. The orders issued by these
gentlemen on July 12 gave notice that the powder should be landed only " at
the wharves of Thomas Tileston and Col. F. Hatch ; " in case of fire prevent-
ing, they were to apply to the board for directions. The route the carriages
were to take was through Seven Star lane and Water street, then by the
most direct way to the magazine.
Monday, February 3, a large baru, the property of David Bradlee, was
burned, together with a quantity of hay. Mingo Mackay and Col. William
ScoUay succeeded S. Whitwell and S. Breck as firewards for 1792.
Sunda}', May 6, a fire was discovered in the upper story of a large house
in Newbury street (Washington street), occupied by Mr. Samuel Davis, but
was soon extinguished by citizens. The other small fires for the year were as
follows : April, South School-house, Engine 8 ; Mr. Davis' house. South End,
Engine 7. May, Mr. Eckley's house, Engine 7 ; Mr. Selim's house. Engine 3.
November, house in Court street. Engine 5.
Engine 5 was repaired June 27. Firewards Melville and Davis asked for
a new engine to take the place of Engine 6. October 30, a committee was
appointed to investigate the matter. Joseph Fullerton and Nath. Brown suc-
ceeded N. Clough and A. Chase on Engine 1, November 7, and William
Darracott was promoted foreman of Engine 2, vice Capt. G. Bouv6. Thurs-
day, December 27, fire broke out in an old building belonging to the glass-
house, which was partly consumed. The same day a fire occurred in the
south part of the town.
A woman was found dead in the Old South Engine-house, November 22,
The cause of her death and how she came there is not known.
A civic feast was celebrated on Monday, January 21, 1793, in commem-
oration of the success of the Soldiers of Liberty in France. The inspector
of police issued ordei's forbidding the lighting of bonfires, fireworks, etc.
This official was also given orders to replace the town ladders, and to pro-
vide a new one for Engine 8.
Messrs. James Tisdale and Joseph May were chosen as firewards in the
place of C. Davis and T. Russell, resigned.
On March 10 several of the engines were found to be very badly dam-
aged, being the work of some unprincipled person, on account of which the
selectmen ordered the following notification to be published : —
200 dollars reward. — Whereas some evil minded and disorderly persons in the
course of Saturday niglit last did wantonly and wickedly break and injure several of the
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 99
fire engines in this town, thus exposing the property of the inhabitants to the danger of
destruction by fire — a reward of two hundred dollars is Iiereby offred to any person
who shall inform of the perpetrator of so atrocious and wantou a piece of wickedness and
villany, that he or they may be brought to such punishment as their crime deserves — The
above reward shall be payable on the conviction of the offender or offenders.
By order of the selectmen,
WILLIAM COOPER
Town Clerk.
Boston, March 10, 1793.
^ An investigation was held, from which it was, on July 13, found that
J. McFadden, an ex-member of the department, who had been discharged
during 1773, was the guilty person. He was severely punished for the deed.
Mr. AVilliam Sherburn was elected a fireward for 1794, vice J. Clark,
resigned. A new engine was ordered to be built by E. Thayer for Engine
No. 1, July 9. The same date the house of Aaron Davis was struck by
lightning, and slightly damaged.
A few minutes after 4 o'clock on the morning of "Wednesday, July 10,
another large conflagration startled the citizens of Boston. The flre originated
from an accident, in the rope-walk of Mr. Howe on Pearl street, near Milk
street, a spark having caught in some hemp and tar while that gentleman
was lighting a fire ; the flames were communicated to seven other rope- walks,
and in three hours buried in ashes the extensive square between Milk,
Atkinson (Congress), Pearl, and Purchase streets. Twenty-four shops, forty-
three houses, and twenty-one barns, and the wharves of Messrs. Russell,
Dawes, Somes, and Tileston were entirely consumed in tlie fire, together with
large quantities of cordage and household furniture, making an aggregate loss,
as appears by returns made to a committee of the town, of $210,000.
The flames were so rapid in their progress that several people had very nar-
row escapes with their lives. The losses were as follows : — Atkinson street:
rope-walks of Edward Howe, John Codman, Isaac Davis, Jeffrey Richardson,
Mr. McNeil. Dwellings : John Read, Captain Parker, William Cluston, Mrs.
Scott, Samuel Abbott, John Kennedy, Cornelius South, and a large brick store
filled with hemp ; Nathan Jenkins, Thomas Smith, George Guyer, Mrs. Ber-
nard, J. Dodge, Mrs. Foster, row of barracks known by the name of Green's,
occupied by blocks. Cow lane (High street) : Mrs. Low, two dwellings, and
John AVhite. Berry street (now a continuation of Franlclin street) : Mr. Em-
mons, Capt. J. West, Col. John Winslow, Mrs. Crosby, M. Gray, Mr.Townsend,
Mrs. Green, Solomon Cotton, his son's master's shop and several large out-
buildings, two other houses, and Mrs. Quincy's barn. Purchase street : row
of buildings owned by Mr. Savage and occupied b}' Messrs. Barry, Lincoln,
Hearsey, and Francis ; the house of Mrs. Gray, Mr. Tate, Thomas Brewer, James
Perkins, Daniel Bargs, Samuel Dillaway, Mrs. Brewer, block-house, Samuel
Emmons, and Ferreter & Torry's rope-walk, Mr. Hill's .store, several barns,
hay carriages, trucks, etc., with a row of low buildings; Thomas Lamb,
100 HISTORY of' BOSTOX FIEE DEPARTMENT.
Nathaniel Appleton's house, to which the loan office of the United States was
attached ; John McLane, James Thwing, Mr. Clement, house and barn ;
Joseph Baker, Hugh Kemple, house and shop ; Benjamin Gray, Mrs. McNeil,
Watson Freeman, Daniel Sargent, Captain Cowel, house and shop ; Mrs.
Cluston, Levi Hearsay', Mrs. Brown, house and sliop ; Miss Kettle, Mi;.
Gooch, Mrs. Rand, Mr. Whitemore's cooper shop, Hon. Thomas Russell, large
store ; Samuel Dillaway, country house, new barn, lumber wharf, — 200,000
feet board, 100,000 shingles, timber, etc. ; Hon. Thomas Dawes, store and
bara on his wharf ; Capt. Nehemiah Somes, country room ; four stores of
Mr. Tileston.
The " Centinel," in closing the account of tlie fire, from which these
names wei'e taken, says: "The Rope Walks will not be rebuilt, and a fine
square will be open which will be an excellent place for the site of the New
State House." [The proprietors of the rope-walks were permitted to rebuild
in the marsh (the site of the Public Garden). The lots, six in number, were
each 50 feet wide, and when bought back by the city in 1824, the first three
lots measured 1,006 feet on Charles street, 1,138 feet on the west side; lots
-4, 0, and 6 measured 1,138 feet each. They were again burnt and rebuilt
during 1806, an account of which is given in the fires under that date.]
The town ordered a company of sixty men to watch over the fire for two
days, each being paid 6s. per night. These men, with a number of engines
under the charge of the firewards, proved a sufficient force to prevent the
flames from again breaking out, despite the very high wind that prevailed.
Sermons were preached in the several churches regarding the fire, and sub-
scriptions were taken up for the sufferers.
Engines from Cambridge, Charlestown, Roxbury, Brookline, Milton, and
Watertown came to the assistance of the Boston firemen, for which they
received the following vote of thanks from the selectmen : —
The selectmen of Boston in behalf of their fellow citizens, having a more lively sence
of the more timely and efficient aid offered them by their brothers of several towns in the
vicinity with their Fire Engines and Personal service at the distressing fire of yesterday
request them to accept their most sincere acknowledgment of the same and assure them
that such benevolent and liumain exertions will always excite tiie most kindly sensations.
Refreshments were provided them at the expense of the town. After this
collation the firewards had an order passed by the selectmen, whereby the town
should, in future, pay for refreshments to visiting engine companies.
The other fires for the year were: March, Lyman's wharf, Engine I.
April, Mr. Bradlee's house. South End, Engine 8. July, Deacon Jones' house.
May, Engine 6, Mr. Seaver's distil-house ; Engine 8, house in Bennett street ;
iiud on October 17, at Mr. Bartlett's hat-shop. South End, Engine 8.
Oliver Wiswall was appointed in command of Engine 7 during this year,
vice Captain Ranger, resigned.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 101
Another manufacturer of fire-engines establishes himself in the town,
and issued the following advertisement : —
Fire Engines For sale of all-sorts, Made by Richard Grindley Jr. Fore St. on Capt.
Goldsbury's Wharf, Any one in want of an Engine can liave one at short notice, Old
Engines taken as part pay. Feb 22, 1794.
A number of citizens, taking into consideration the evils of the frequent
fires, associated themselves on November 20, 1792, for the purpose of es-
tablishing a fund and applying the income to the humane undertaking of
relieving the distress occasioned by the ravages of the fire-fiend. A committee
was commissioned to draft a constitution for the government of the society,
and a constitution was established on January 21, 1793. The society con-
tinued their meeting by adjournments until August following, when a com-
mittee was appointed to prepare an address to the several fire societies in
Boston and vicinity, requesting their aid in effectually establishing the same.
This resulted in a public meeting, held at the County Court-House, February
6, 1794, which was attended by committees from several fire societies; and
on June 25 of the same year the society was incorporated, the name being
" The Massachusetts Charitable Fire Society." Its purpose was to provide
means to relieve such of the inhabitants as may suffer by and to reward the
industry and ingenuity of those who may invent useful machines for ex-
tinguishing fires, or make extraordinary personal exertions in the time of such
calamity, or make efforts to prevent its devastation as shall be thought worthy
of their patronage. An additional act was passed February 16, 1822, where-
by the society was authorized to appropriate such part of their interest accu-
mulated from the general fund to any other charitable purpose than those
mentioned in the act of incorporation, and to such benevolent institution within
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as they saw fit, provided ' that no appro-
priation exceed $300 at any one time, or to any one charitable institution.
June 10, 1831, another additional act provided that the appropriation should
not exceed twenty-five per cent, of the capital stock, or in no case affect the
bequest of any individual. The presidents of the society were as follows :
1794 to 1800, Hon. Moses Gill; 1800 to 1802, George R. Minot; 1802 to
1817, Arnold Welles; 1817 to 1832, T. K. Jones; 1832 to 1839, John
Heard, Jr.; 1839 to 1841, F. J. Oliver; 1841 to 1849, E. T. Andrews;
1849 to 1850, James Phillips; 1850 to 1854, A. W. Thaxter ; 1854 to 1859,
W. T. Andrews; 1859 to 1861, William Adams; 1861 to 1863, A. A.
Wellington ; 1863 to 1864, Enoch Hobart ; 1864 to 1866, J. W. Warren ;
1866 to 1868, Da\ad Kimball ; 1868 to 1870, Benjamin Beal ; 1870 to 1872,
Moses Kimball; 1872 to 1874, Charles Leighton ; 1874 to 1876, Solomon
Hovey; 1876 to 1878, Uriel Crocker; 1878 to 1880, Paul Adams; 1880
to 1882, Thomas Restieaux ; 1882 to 1884, Joseph F. Hovey ; 1884 to 1886,
Samuel P. Oliver; 1886 to 1888, F. W. Lincoln; 1888, present incumbent,
William F. Davis.
102 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIliE DEPARTMENT.
Ouly one change occurred in the Board of Firewards for the year 1795,
Maj. Andrew Cunningham succeeding T. Tileston, deceased.
On February 2, 1795, a petition was filed at the town-meeting, signed by
Luther Eames, Nathan Bond, William Page, and others, praying for incorpora-
tion for bringing fresh water through subterranean pipes into the town of
Boston. On the 27th a company was vested by the General Court with cor-
porate powers for supplying the town with pure water from Jamaica Plain, in
lioxbury ; and by a subsequent act, passed on June 10, 1796, this corporation
was empowered to assume the title of " The Aqueduct Corporation." They
were authorized ' ' to bring from any part of the town of Roxbury into the town
of Boston and into any street within the same town all such fresh water as
they, the said," etc., " then had or hereafter should have a right to dispose
of, or to convey from the springs or sources thereof." The act gives power
also to open the ground in any of the streets or highways in Roxbury and
Boston as should be required for the sinking of the water-pipes, but with very
prudent provisions, which prevented the aqueduct from becoming a nuisance
or impairing any right of the town of Roxbury or any of its inhabitants in
and to the waters of Jamaica pond. The price of the water was to be regu-
lated by the General Court ; the towns of Boston and Roxbury were to have
the privilege of hydrants for extinguishing fires. It supplied about fifteen
hundred houses with Avater, chiefly at the South End and in the neighborhood
of Summer and Essex streets, and of Pleasant and Charles streets. The
water was conveyed through four main pipes of pitch-pine logs (the work of
boring and preparing these logs was carried on at the foot of the Common),
tAYO of four inches bore and two of three inches, the lateral pipes having a
bore of one and a half inches. The lineal extent of the water-pipes in Bos-
ton was about fifteen miles, and they extended north as far as Franklin
street, and branched off easterly through Harrison avenue into Congress street
nearly to State street and to Broad street. They also branched of westerly
through Pleasant and Charles streets, extending as far as the Massachusetts
General Hospital, which was supplied with the water. This system had to
give way after a few years' service, on the introduction of water from Cochitu-
ate pond on March 13, 1846.
The spermaceti factory of Mr. Nichols, and owned by Appleton &
Wendall, located in Batterymarch street, was burned on Wednesday evening,
February 11. Loss, £1,300.
Two large buildings were destroyed by fire on July 9, these being the
houses of Isaac Durall and John Russell, and located at the West End.
The occupants, Messrs. Cobb Cotton, Jr., and Benjamin Stevens, lost all
their furniture.
A new engine, built by E. Thayer during the past year, was placed, Feb-
ruary 17, 1796, between Nassau street and the building on the Neck (AYash-
ington, below Common strefet). It was called Eagle Engine No. 12, and
Samuel Andrews was appointed foreman.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 103
Engine 1, in Middle street, was on the land of Thomas Parker, who
rented it to the town for $15 per year, the first payment being made March 28 ;
previous to this time it was allowed to remain free of charge.
No change is reported for this year on the Board of Firewards. On the
engine companies only two changes are made, — September 28, Ezra Parmen-
ter was promoted foreman of Engine 11, vice Captain Champney, resigned,
and Manners succeeded Captain Gammel on Endeavor Engine 4.
Two buildings located near State street, the property of Messrs. Turrel
Sweetser, and Diamond, a grocer, were destroyed by tire on Wednesday,
March 9. During April, a building was burned on North School street; En-
gine 2. February 23, a fire broke out in a building on Union street occupied
by Mr. Folsom, printer. Engines 4 and 10 applied for the premium. Saturday
morning, 25th, 1797, the rope-walk of Messrs. Jeffrey & Russell, John AVin-
throp, Esq., and Messrs. Tyler & Caswell, together with several dwelling-houses
owned by Messrs. Joseph Blake, Jr., Tyler, and Norcross, located at the West
End, were entirely consumed by fire. Engines from Charlestowu, Roxbury,
Watertown, Cambridge, Brookline, and Dorchester rendered assistance. The
houses of Jonathan Hastings and Samuel Blagge were several times on fire,
but were saved. The loss is estimated at $100,000. Mr. Blake had $2,700
and Mr. Winthrop $4,000 insurance in the Massachusetts Fire Insurance
Company. Russell and Jeffrey had their building insured in a European com-
pany. This is the first fire reported on which the loss to buildings was
covered by insurance.
On account of the many distressing fires occurring during the winter, the
Legislature passed a new law for regulating the proceedings at fires, also
allowing towns to choose as many firewards as they thought necessary. At the
town-meeting in Boston, March, 1797, it was voted to increase the number
serving in that capacity to twenty-four. On the votes being assorted it was
found that all the old members were reelected. Captain Mackay resigned,
and Levi Lane was chosen in his place. The new members were : Deacon
William Brown, Capt. Nathaniel Fellows, Messrs. Samuel Bradford, William
Shaw, Joseph Head, Thomas H. Perkins, Levi Lane, Col. John AYinslow,
and Col. John May.
In the act of the General Court regarding firewards, it was further or-
dered that when a member is elected he shall be notified within three days,
and within three days after he shall, on penalty of $10, notify the town
clerk of his decision, unless excused by the town. Either the selectmen
or the civil officers of the town were to direct the engineers regarding their
•engines and all other persons they may call on for assistance, and should any
citizen refuse he was to be fined $10. Regarding the building law in the
same act, it prohibited any person from carrying on the business of sad-
maker, rigger, or keeping livery stable, except only In such parts as the
selectmen shall direct ; and $10 fine was imposed for setting fire to
-common or wood land. The acts of 1744, entitled, "The speedy extin-
104 IIISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
guishing of fires, and preserving goods endangered by it;" 1753, "To pre-
vent fires in woods ; " 1762, " Damage by fire in ye maritime towns ; " and a
clause in an act passed 1692, empowering " two or three chief military or civil '
officers to direct the pulling down or demolishing of houses," — were repealed.
The changes in the several companies for the year were : Henry Lover-
ing, vice Mr. Berry Emery, January 11, and John Thompson, Jr., vice Captain
Hanners, Engine 4, February 1. On March 22 the firewards asked for new
engines to replace Nos. 7 and 11. General Jackson, the agent for building
the Continental frigate in the town (the glorious old " Ironsides"), asked for
the use of one engine for watering the frigate. It was ordered "That he
have liberty to use the Engine at the North End (No. 2) under the direction
of the Fireward and Master of said Engine at his own expence ; he also to be
under engagement to make good any damage that may happen to said Engine
by using it as aforesaid." We presume General Jackson richly remunerated
the North Enders for their service in christening the " Constitution."
Chimney-sweeps were authorized to wear badges on this date.
The Legislature, on January 27, 1798, passed another building law, that
compelled every meeting-house, school, public building, distil-house, brewery,
malt-house, and livery stable to have the external walls, except doors and
windows, entirely of brick or stone, with roof covered of some incombusti-
ble substance. Any dwelling-house of more than fourteen feet high should
have one of its largest sides, or any two sides equal to the largest, of brick or
stone, at least twelve inches thick in the lower story, and eight inches thick
above. The partition walls of double houses the same, and to rise in battle-
ments three feet above the roof. All additions made on buildings already
erected contrary to this act, except ou wharves or marsh, where no founda-
tion could be obtained, buildings of more than two stories high, to be
covered on all sides with slate, etc., should be subject to a fine of $50 or
$500, and $50 per month until repaired according to the law. The firewards
were to prosecute all offenders. Tar-kettles were to be secured by a fireplace
of iron or brick, while any person carrying fire or having a lighted cigar in
the street or wharf to be fined $2 ; among the rope-walks, $5 to $100. The
act entitled " An act to secure the Town of Boston from damage by fire,"
passed in 1797, was repealed.
The firewards, at their meeting the next year, voted to prosecute
indiscriminately all violation of this law ; they also voted to support at the
election the list of firewards agreed at their last meeting.
The Federal-street, or Boston, Theatre, the most elegant building of its
kind in the United States, was destroyed by fire on Friday, February 2,
1798. Fire broke out about 4 o'clock of the afternoon in a dressing-room,
and before the attendants could check its progress the flames were beyond
control, and by 7 o'clock that night nothing was left but the brick and stone
walls. Its origin was attributed by some to a rehearsal of fireworks to be
exhibited in the pantomime of " Don Juan," and by others to the negligence
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 105
of a servant whose duty it was to watch the fires in the dressing-rooms.
Help was rendered by the citizens of Roxbury, Charlestown, and Cam-
bridge. This was the first theatre destroyed by fire in this country. The
loss was about $60,U00, only one share of which was insured.
On November 27 a fire broke out and entirely consumed a tenement
house in Fore street, occupied by Messrs. Branders, Wiswell, Besante, Hog-
ger, Evans, Mortlicries, Janet, and Farmers.
Joseph Howard, Benjamin Joy, and Stephen Codman were elected fire-
wards in the place of A. Cunningham, W. Shaw, and L. Lane, for the year
1798. Captain T'hompson, of Engine 4, was given liberty, on August 8, to
use his engine for watering the streets in the neighborhood of the engine-
house, Messrs. Redley and Nolan being responsible for damages, Samuel C.
May, Abner Guild, and John H. Wheeler were admitted members of Engine 8,
October 19, and on January 4, 1799, Captain Thompson, of Engine 4, was
succeeded b}' John Jarvis.
A new hose for Engine 5 was made by Mr. Fenno on February 13, being
the first mention of home production of this article. A return is made of all
buckets in the possession of the department on the 20th, and the 13th of the
next month six pair were ordered for each company. A new engine-house for
Engine 6 was erected on Dearn street, it being ordered there from the old
stand on Hancock street. Andrew Cunningham and John Bray succeeded
W. Little and J. Tisdale on the Board of Firevvards for the year 1799.
A very large fire broke out on May 11 in a house on Washington street,
which, before controlled, destroyed eleven other dwellings. A chhnney on
the house of Engine 10 was complained of on June 19 by Mr. Makepeice as
dangerous to the town, which complaint greatly atfronted the firewards, who
had the building enlarged. The hose manufactured in the town did not fully
satisfy the firewards, and they ordered on the 24th the following amount to
be imported from London: " Eight hose, twenty feet long, 1% inches in
diameter. Eight ditto, thirty feet and eight ditto sixty feet." They ar-
rived on October 17, and were placed in the care of the firewards.
The new engine built by C. Thayer to take the place of No. 5 was ready
on July 24 to be taken to quarters on State street, where this company had
been stationed for some time. The old engine was ordered to be removed to
the West End, where a house had been erected for it, and Gideon French
was appointed foreman, with fifteen members. The company was called
President Adams, No. 13. December 15, fire was discovered in a building
No. 3 Cornhill, occupied by Mr. Hoy en, but was soon extinguished.
The lists of members of the engines sent in by the foremen were found
to contain the names of too many men as allowed by law. Captains of
Engines 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, and 8 were, therefore, on February 5, 1800, ordered to
report, and upon investigation it was found expedient to repeal the law of
1785 restricting the number of engine-men to one hundred and thirty men,
and that a bill be placed before the Legislature to increase the number and
106 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
to excuse them from military duty ; in consequence of which the following
act was passed, March 4, 1800 : —
That the selectmen of the Towns of Boston and Charlestown be, and they hereby are
respectively authorized & empowered if they shall judge It expedient, to nominate and
appoint as soon as may be after the passing of this act and ever after in the month of
January, annually, any number not exceeding six men to each Engine in addition to the
number of men now authorized by law, and be it further enacted that all persons leagally
attached to any Engine in this Commonwealth, be, and they hereby are excused from
being choosen or drawn to serve as Jurors in any court within this commonwealth, in all
cases where the town, to which such Engine-men belong, shall at any legal meeting of its
inhabitant, by vote declare the expediency of excusing such person or persons from
serving as Jurors.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 107
CHAPTER IX.
1800-1803.
MESSRS. Thomas Dennie, Simon Elliot, and Gorham Parsons were
chosen on the Board of Firewards for the 3'ear 1800, vice J. Hatch and
J. Kussell, discharged on account of ill-health, and John Winthrop, deceased.
The fires for the year were : January 19, John Hutchinson's distil-house ;
29th, Capt. Amasa Stetson & Co.'s storehouse. Februar}' 1, Mr. Balcher's
shop ; loth, Benjamin Thompson ; 25th, Erving Botton, Cross street. March
9, Mr. Tack's shop. June 11, Mr. Carroll's shop, AVashington street. July
11, Mrs. Catherine Gray's house. State street. August, Edward Edds' bake-
shop. October 24, Carroll & Witherbee's workshop, Washington street.
On the engine companies, Captain Nazro, of Engine 6, is succeeded by Cap-
tam Middlefield ; Captain Pearce, of Engine 9. resigns in favor of Captain
Hersey on October 15, and Captain Rease, of Engine 5, is succeeded by N.
Glover.
Mr. Porter, asked permission, on November 12, to place several upright
suction pipes in the aqueduct pipe, to be used in case of fire ; but he was
only allowed to erect one, this being on Washington street near Dover, and
was the first hydrant constructed ni Boston.
Firewards E. Parsons, T. H. Perkms, Simon Eliot, and Mr. Nathan
Frazier presented the town with a large and valuable engine on November 26,
Avhich thej' imported from Euiope. This engine was called Cataract, No. 14,
and was accommodated in a building back of the office of the Fire and Marine
Insurance Company, 16 State street ; Mr. Lephenia Spurr was appointed its
commander.
Engine 7 was moved on March 25, 1801, to a site in front of the City
Hall, on School street. The engines possessed by the town at this period
were named as follows : Old North, No. 1 ; Congress, No. 2 ; Washington, No.
3 ; Endeavor, No. 4 ; Marlborough, No. 5 ; Hero-Comes, No. 6 ; Extinguishei-,
No. 7 ; Cumberland, No. 8 ;- Despatch, No 9 ; Hancock, No. 10 ; Purchase,
No. 11 ; Eagle, No. 12 ; President Adams, No. 13 ; and Cataract, No. 14, —
all of which had a membership of twenty-seven, except Nos. 2, 7, and 14,
which had twenty-four.
Rufus G. Amory, Jonathan Hunnewell, and Daniel Messenger filled the
places made vacant during the year by the resignation of Firewards Sturgis,
Fellows, and Parsons. Twenty cents per barrel of one hundred weight of
powder for storage in the magazine, and ten cents per barrel per month, and
twenty-five cents for each delivery of stock from the powder-house, — this
108 IIISTOET OF BOSTON FIEE BEPABTMENT.
amount to go toward the salary of the keeper of the magazine, — was the rate
ordered to be charged by au act of the Legislature, June 19.
Several people were examined by the selectmen for setting fire to the
porch of Dr. Lothrop's meeting-house during September, but no one was
proven guilty. The board, however, recommended stronger vigilance on the
part of the police and others.
Between 2 and 3 o'clock on the morning of December 16, a fire broke out
in the rear of a wooden building. No. 9o Ann street(North street), which soon
communicated to the house opposite ; it then spread to the east side of Fish
street (a continuation of Ann street) and to Swett wharf, laying in ashes
every one of the sixteen houses. On the west side of Ann street no building
was burnt, although the street was then ten feet narrower than at present ;
but every house from Cross street to the one opposite Swett's wharf was
either burnt or pulled down. The following is a list of those who suffered by
this disaster. Western side of Fish street : Alex Onek, Mrs. Read, Joseph
Churchill, Jos. Martin, Mr. Morrison, Mr. Peirce, Samuel Tuttle, Mr. Loring,
Mrs. Oustead, Captain Pendexter, Nich Owose, Mr. White, Mrs. Penney,
and Mr. Carey. Eastern side of Fish street : Elijah Williams, Samuel Hich-
born, ]\Irs. Besbell, Capt. S. Stetson, Stephen Emery, Widow Stodder, David
Humphreys, Messrs. Bixby, Valentine, & Co., S. Gardner, David Jones,
Samuel Hayden, and Samuel Sweet. Barrett's wharf : Benjamin Varney,
Abuer Stoddard, Frederick W. Major, Fovell & Adams, Caleb Loring, and
Deacon Barret. Hichborn's wharf : Tliomas Harris, Ephraim Hutchinson, B.
Hiehborn, Jr., Job Barnes, Samuel Hichborn, Jr., and Henry Hutchinson.
Uurditt's wharf : Elijah Loring, and four buildings belonging to estate of M.
Burditt. Gardner wharf : Abraham Wild, Samuel Jenks, Nahum Piper,
J. N. Lillie, Capt. Lemuel Gardner, also several fish-stores of his, Thomas
Luckes, and a dwelling-house a little north of the wharf occupied by poor
families. Gouldbury's wharf : A range of sheds and store used by Messrs.
Bixby, Valentine, & Co. Vessels : " Charming Sally " (sloop) , Capt. EHmere
Franklin; several other vessels were badly damaged. Insurance: Widow
Stodder, $3,000; S. Hichborn, Sl,500; E. Gardner, $3,000; total loss,
$100,000.
The following year a brick bloclc, called North Row, was built on Fish
street. (The first block of brick buildings erected in the town was the rantye
called the Tontine, located in Franklin street, August 8, 1793.)
The selectmen had strong reason to attribute this fire to the work of
incendiaries, and for the purpose of discovering them, and to prevent further
damage, tliey employed five additional men to each squad of police, to patrol
the streets for two nights from 10 P.M. to 6 A.M., for which they were paid
$1 per night. An advertisement was also issued offering $500 reward for the
apprehension of the guilty persons. The selectmen promised their influence
to obtain the pardon of any one concerned in this destruction who should
deliver over the offender to justice.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 109
Fires for 1801 : January 9, ship at Long wharf. March 5, Nat. Apple-
ton's house, Brattle square. April 4, Mr. Hind's house, Cambridge street;
and Gay & Veazey's store, Ann street. May 11, Caleb Wheaton's store,
town dock. May 6, William Andrews' shop, Marlborough street, September 20,
Mrs. Doyle's house, Fitche's alley. October 7, Mr. Kendall's bakehouse :
11th, house of John Brazier, in Brazier court, occupied by several fishermen ;
19th, public house of Mrs. Wheelock, Marlborough street. November 3, Mr.
Eben Olive's house, Newbury street; 7th, Mrs. Bradlee's house, Ann street;
8th, Harris House, Orange street (Washington street) ; 13th, Captain Hol-
land's vessel, at Russell & Inch's wharf. December 1, J. S. Lillie's house;
20th, John Winthrop, Esq.'s, house, and Goldsmith's wharf.
Captain Jarvis, of Engine 10, was succeeded this year by Joseph Hem-
menway, Captain Brown, of, Engine 1, by Elisha Swift, and Captain Lover-
ing, of Engine 8, by Jonah Wheeler.
Monday, January 18, 1802, three large fires occurred, the first being at
7 o'clock in the evening, when fire was discovered in the dwelling of Messrs.
Stephen and Eben Goff, on Fort Hill, which was entirely consumed ; also the
house adjoining, occupied by Mrs. Spear. So rapid was the progress of the
flames that hardly an ai'ticle of furniture was saved, and a child of Mrs. Goff,
being asleep in an upper chamber, was burned to death. The next building
destroyed by this element was a shop on Howard's wharf, and soon after the
discovery of the fire the flames communicated to the other shop adjoining, which
contained a quantity of naval stores and tools. These shops belonged to the es-
tate of Thomas Hiehborn, and were occupied by Messrs. John Howard, Jacob
Libby, Thomas Hiehborn, John Chesman, and Mr. Hall. A lumber yard
owned by Mr. Hatch, and several stores adjacent, took fire ; but by the
abundant supply of water furnished from the Mill creek they were saved.
At 12 o'clock the large workshop of Messrs. Webber & Page, shipwrights,
on Oliver dock, was entirely consumed. Several small buildings were pulled
down to stop its progress. These fires were attributed to incendiaries, as
another fire was discovered in the same quarter of the town, but was extin-
guished without much damage.
The firewards requested the constables, on March 25, to prosecute any
person they saw carrying fire in an open vessel, or smoking a pipe or cigar in
the streets, for which information they were allowed the total amount of the
fine. No change occurred 4n the list of firewards for this year.
The following act was passed by the Legislature, February 8, 1802 : —
Whereas it has sometimes happened that some people from a wanton and others from
a malicious disposition have injured the publick Fire Engines provided for tlie extinguisli-
ment of Fire which may unfortunately happen in the habitations & other buildings of
the inhabitants for prevention whereof in future. Be it enacted by the Senate & House
of Representatives in General Court assembled & by the authority of the same. That if
any person shall wantonly or maliciously spoil, break, injure, damage, or render usele-s,
any Engine or any of the apparatus thereto belonging prepaired by any town society
110 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPAliTMENT.
person or persons, for the extinguishment of fire, and shall be convicted thereof before
the Supreme Judicial Court, he shall be punished by a fine not exceeding five hundred
dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding two years, at the discretion of the court, And
be it further ordered to recognize -with sufficient surety or surities for good behavior for
such term as the court shall order.
The engiue-men were informed by the selectmen, on January 25, that it
would induce good order and effect to wear their badges and caps at fires.
The rates for sweeping chimneys were again altered this year as follows :
Kitchen chimneys, smoke-jacks, and parlor stoves, 50 cents ; parlor chim-
neys, 40 cents, and chambers, 33 cents, each.
Another attempt was made to desti'oy the warehouses on the water-front.
This time the "fire-bugs" started on Spear's wharf , in the store of Joseph
Ripley. The tide being out, the water supply was very deficient, and in a
very short time the flames had spread to the stores at the head of Long
wharf, and the range of buildings from Nos. 2 to 8 were laid in ashes, while
9 and 10 were pulled down. Two on Mr. Spear's wharf were owned by
him, and were occupied by Captain Ripley and E. L. Boyd ; No. 2, on Long
wharf, by Ed. Edes, Jr. ; No. 3, Messrs. Oliver & Proctor ; No. 4, Benjamin
Sumner ; No. 5, Joseph Field ; No. 6, "William McKay and Josiah Bradlee ;
No. 7, Stephen Codman ; No. 8, Elijah and Samuel Davenport; 9 and 10,
by Ed. Blanchard, Samuel Dillaway, and George Brackett. Mr. Osborne's
new fire-proof store prevented the flames extending to State street.
A new engine for No. 7, of the same pattern as the old, was ordered on
March 24, by the firewards, from E. Thayer, which, on trial, carried water to
a greater height than was ever thrown in Boston. The committee of the
New North Church requests that the town pay a rental for the land on which
Engine No. 2 stands ; but the selectmen thought it more advisable to build a
new house on the east side of the school-house on Bennet street, where the
engine was soon after lodged.
A committee of firewards, on inspecting the several engines on September
15, recommended that two new ones be made by Mr. E. Thayer, to take the
place of Engines Nos. 3 and 4 ; also one of the new patent engines to be
stationed as they desire. Four hundred and fifty feet of new hose was im-
ported from England by Fireward Parkman on November 24, and placed in
charge of Mr. Cunningham, secretary of the firewards. The old hose was
given to Mr. Tilden.
Fires for 1802: January 19, Mrs. Dudley's house. Middle street, two
barns of Mr. Amory, Mr. Miller's shop, Batter3'marcli street, and Howard's
wharf. February 23, Samuel Hastings' house, Newbury street, and Mrs.
Dickson's house. March 8, bouse on luynn street; 14th, Mrs. Bush, North
School street, and Dr. Stillman's church. Back street. April 1, building on
Spear's wharf; 8th, Mr. Gove's house. Fort Hill; 16th, Widow Butler's
house. Orange street. May 18, house of Samuel Hastings on Newbury street,
occupied by Messrs. Coltmans & Wheldon, platers. December 3, Howard's
HISTOEY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. Ill
wharf; 16th, Mr. Wilson's house, Newbury street, and Widow Pope's, ad-
joining. February 9, 1803, the Legislature passed an act forbidding the
erection of any building over ten feet high except of brick or stone, and
all buildings placed on old foundations to be governed by the same act. No .
building was to be moved within the town without a permit from the fire-
wards. They were also empowered to license the erection of buildings.
A new engine was built to replace Hancock No. 10, on January 3, and
the firewards were ordered to sell the several small engines that were replaced
by new ones.
A man named Perkins having invented a pump for use in case of fire,
recommended them for use on the wharves in Boston ; but on investigation it
was found that these pumps w^ere larger and much more expensive than could
be used, being impossible to accommodate them at the creek and w^iarves,
which were of different depths. Instead of the pumps, however, the engines
in the creeks were provided wdth a number of short ladders.
The new engine for No. 5 was finished on April 12, and was worked for
the first time in the presence of the firewards, to w^hora it was entirely satis-
factory. It Avas then ordered placed under the Town-House, and Jonathan
Stoddard was promoted foreman.
No change occurred in the Board of Firewards for the year 1803. A
new engine was built by E. Thayer, to take the place of Engine 3, on April 19.
On August 23 a new house was ordered for Engine 5.
The " Centinel," on January 19, stated that the oldest persons could not
recall a period when this town w^as so frequently alarmed by the cry of fire.
Saturday evening, on January 15, the Columbian Museum, situated at the
corner of Bromfield and Tremont streets, owned by Mr. Bowen, was
destroyed. The flames communicated to the dwelling of Widow Polland,
Mr. Bumstead, and Othello Polland, owned by Mr. Bumstead, on whose
ground the museum was erected, on such terms that within a year or two the
building would come into his possession. The light from the conflagration
was seen at a distance of seventy miles. While the fire was in progress the
alarm was given for a fire in a new store erected on Burditt's wharf, on the
site of a building burned a year previous. It was occupied by Elijah Loring
as a lime-store. A carpenter-shop and barn were also destroyed.
On the 17th, about midnight, another fire broke out, this time in a hay-
store owned by Joshua Batchelder, located at the old Navy Yard. A large,
two-story warehouse belonging to the United States and some lumber-sheds
adjoining were destroyed. A few hours later a shed owned by Messrs.
Starr & Washburn, near Parson's wharf, was consumed.
Monday, the 31st, between 1 and 3 o'clock, a number of inhabitants
assembled in Faueuil Hall and the Old South Church for the purpose of
reconsidering the vote for an application to the Legislature for a new law to
prevent the erection of wooden buildings. After an animated debate, the
question to reconsider the vote was rejected by a large majority, and a vote
112 HISTOEY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
passed instructing the representatives of the town to procure a proviso and
exempt those who had made contracts for building-material agreeable to the
law. At a meeting of the citizens held in Faneuil Hall, January 21, the fol-
lowing vote was passed : —
That as the town have witnessed the exertion, prudence, and discretion of the fire-
wards in the late distressing scenes which have fallen on this metropolis, the thanks of the
Town are given unto them, and that they may be assured that the town will afford all the
support necessary to such important usefulness.
The other fires for the year were: January 2, Jacob Taylors carpenter
shop, near Baldwin's Church, and a house on Back street ; 7th, Thomas
Page's . carpenter shop. Grant's wharf ; 9th, at Loring's wharf ; 18th,
Loring's shop. Cross street; 21st, W. H. Sumner's house, Tremont street.
March, house on Milk street. June 7, soap and candle works of Mr.
Levering ; 10th, house in Theatre alley. November 20, Daniel Cobb's
distil-house. December 20, Wells Hunt's building. Water street.
Captain Smith succeeded Captain Stoddard on Engine 5. Joseph Burgis
was made foreman of Engine 4, and Thomas Page of Engine 2.
uisTonr OF boston fire department. 113
CHAPTEE X.
1804-1817.
THE beginning of 1804 was attended by a severe conflagration. On Janu-
ary 21 a building on State street, occupied by Maj. J. Pierce as a ship-
chandler store, Messrs. Gilbert & Dean, printers of the " Weekly Magazine,"
and the premises of Messrs. N. & R. Freeman and E. & N. Withington, adjoin-
ing, were entirely consumed. The buildings were owned by John Parker, and
his loss amounted to $20,000; N. & R. Freeman, $5,000; Withington, $500
The printers could not save a single article. Monday, 2;}d, a small fire
occurred in the house of Mr. Merriam, at West End. Only three other fires
were reported for this year, — October 4, a house on Beach street ; 2oth, Gen-
eral Jackson's distil-liouse ; and December 17th, Mr. Darling's grocery store,
South wark street, West Boston.
By an act of the Legislature, passed this year, the number of engine-
men on Cataract Engine 14 was increased to forty, it being the largest piece
of apparatus in the town.
Ozias Goodwin was chosen a fireward during 1801, vice Edward Edes,
deceased. This board appointed Messrs. Jackson, Melville, and Brown a
committee to form a plan for ascertaining the origin of all fires that may
happen within the town. Their report, on January 8, 1805, as follows, was
accepted : —
That the secretary issue a commission appointing three Firewards residing in the
vicinity where the fire comraenced, to ascertain by a minute and particular inquiry of such
persons who are able to give the best information respecting its origin, also estimating the
value of the property lost or destroyed.
The secretary of the board had been paid a yearly salary of $40, but the
increased amount of work occasioned by the " Building Law " was such that
they voted him $100 for his services. But this did not satisfy him, as he did
not wish the money to be paid by his colleagues, as he thought the town had
a right to pay him ; therefore petitioned the selectmen for $200 per year,
which Avas granted.
Messrs. Thomas Curtis, Joshua Davis, Jr., J. D. Howard, Benjamin
Coates, and Judah Hays were elected firewards, vice Messrs. May, Brown,
Howard, Gardner, and Joy, for the year 1805. The board voted that they try
an American-made hose, as the last consignment from abroad was very poor.
Two hundred feet was therefore ordered, as some of the engines were des-
titute of this article.
114 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
No large fires occurred during tlie year, but a great man}' small ones
were extinguislied by tlie department. The most serious of these were prob-
ably Gen. J. Elliott's residence, on Federal street, April IG, and Messrs.
Wetherby & Needliam's stable, located in Dock square, which broke out
March 13, and burnt twenty- five horses, entailing a loss of $4,637. Other
fires : March 2, house of Mr. Brimmer, corner of School and AVashington
streets, occupied by 3Iessrs. M. & S. Thayer; 12th, Forbes & King's
stable, near the market. April 4, the New York packet, lying at Long
wharf ; 16th, Mr. Elliott's house, Federal street ; 18th, small sloop at E.
Thayer's wharf. July 4, Mrs. AVelsh's house. Court street ; 18th, Dr. "Web-
ster's house, Ann street. November 4, bakehouse, Water street ; 5th, Mr.
Amsden's house, corner High street. December 11, Dr. Lloyd's house, Court
street; 18th, Mr. Wiuslow's dwelliug, Napan street; 30th, Captain Sargent's
house, A tic inson street ; 31st, H. J. Beau's house. Brattle square.
Tlie following changes of foremen were made in the department during the
year : William Champney , vke Parmenter, Engine 1 1 ; John Perry, vice Captain
Burgis, Engine 4 ; and Adam Smith, vice Captain Stoddard, Engine 5.
A petition was granted to the inhabitants of the West End to place at the
west side of the Court-House several ladder.s, as follows : Rev. Mr. Murray's
church. West Boston Church, and Mr. P2atou's fence, on Eaton street.
October 30, the American and the Amicable Fire Societies notified the select-
men that they each had provided a ladder, — that of the former to be placed
at the meeting-house of Rev. Mr. Charming, the other on the wall opposite
Concert Hall.
The records of the engine companies from 1800 to 1824 are not in existence,
the selectmen's records ceasing to make entries of the members after 1799, and
Avith the exception of one or two copies of the roll books of the old com-
panies that have been left at the fire commissioners' office, no authentic data
is left; therefore the list of foremen between these years is incomplete, while
no mention whatever can be found of the individual members. AVe presume
they continue in the same order as formerly, new members .being admitted at
each monthly meeting, and old ones leaving. Their numbers were gradually
increased, and during the period of uncprtainty and anxiety succeeding the
French Revolution, and through our own war, the companies were harassed
with applicants for membership (as engine-men were exempt from military
duty), and availed themselves generally to secure a good time. Most of the
companies required the payment of $10 or $15, or a compau}^ treat, as a fee
of admission. This, together with the premiums and the fines exacted,
created a very considerable income for the support of a system of fun and
"good times." By way of illustration we give a few extracts from the
records of one of these old companies : —
"December 14 1799 Mr gave the company a handsome supper." "Dee 27,
another handsome supper." "Jan 19 ISOO ditto." "May 5, dittj "' "July 10 com-
IIISTOIiY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 115
pany hail a fishing voyage and spent all their stock on hand." " Oct 6, Voted to have a
rump of beef roasted and brought to the Engine house." "Nov 1801 Had a supper at
tlie Widdow's; cost $28, which was 2s 3d a head more than we had in stock." "May
1802, 3 members treated witli a day on the water in lieu of a supper for each." " Aug.
1803 Voted to go on the water with women." " July 1810 Had an elegant supper at
Henry Goodriches and there was a general attendance, the only one absent Mr .
Club 75 cts eacli." "Feb 7 had a supper at the Engine house; all present." "April 9,
Expence of evening, $3.41." "May 27, Voted to have a land frolic, and to go to
Dedham."
We find among the above records a vote of $40 to a poor widow ; also
for the Newbur^'port sufferers. This, we presume, is a fair sample of the
records of all the fraternity. It does not appear that any of the companies
under this system ever had any other than captain and clerk. They were very
particular in the admission of members. The candidate was recjuired to be
of age, and show a good recommendation from the person with whom he
served his time, and in some companies preference was given to married
men.
The largest fire for the year 1806 was the burning of the rope- walks at
the foot of the Common (on the site of the Public Garden), on B"'ebruai-y 19,
where, as we have already mentioned, business was allowed to be carried on
after the terrible fire of July 30, 1794. The fire originated from the boiling
over of a tar-kettle in the rope-walk owned by Joseph Howe, from whence it
spread to those of Messrs. Samuel P^mmons, Capt. P. B. Rogers, and two
others of Isaac P. Davis. The contents of the buildings were partially
saved, as well as part of the hemp in Mr. Rogers' fire-proof store. Total
loss, $84,000. On March 13 another fire of considerable magnitude broke
out in the building owned by Deacon Tilden on the east side of Batterymarch
street, occupied as a shoe-store by Mr. Mills. The flames soon spread to a
building on the north side, belonging to the heirs of Mr. Gushing, and occu-
pied by Mr. Hall, sail-mnker, and Mr. Hayes, cabinet-maker. It then com-
municated to the houses of Widow Hickling, on the west side of the street,
occupied by Mr. Grover. Mr. Billings, and Deacon Tilden, as stores, all of
which were destroyed, and the house of Mr. McKean was pulled down. The
other alarms for the year were : February 1, William Darricott's and Mrs.
Pulsifer's houses on Charter street. March 10, Joseph Fovy's ship; 11th,
Thomas Perkins' stable, .H. Hicks' building, Hanover street. April 28,
cellar occupied by Hull & Bates, near the market; 27th, Mr. Foster's store,
owned by Samuel Richards, on Ann street, near the market. July 7, A.
Gibson's distil-house. September 23, Nathan Mariam's barn. October 21,
Mr. Evan's house and goldsmith shop, 50 Cornhill. November 25, in the
morning, Stetson's buildings, and in the evening. Seth Thayer's building,
between Faneuil Hall and Ann street.
Benjamin Smith and William Sullivan were chosen firewards for the
year, vice R. G. Amory and J. Hays. Considerable trouble was experienced
116 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
by the board from the number of engine companies leaving the town to render
assistance to neigliboring towns in case of fire, thus leaving their homes unpro-
tected. A committee was therefore appointed on October 9 to make report
of some permanent system. On December 11 the following rules were
adopted : —
At an alarm of fire in any town in this vicinity, to whose assistance our fellow-
citizens may be disposed to run, not more than four of the public engines, with their com-
panies, shall be allowed, nor more than Eight firewards. The fireward who shall first
arrive at the nearest point of the avenue leading from this town to the place intended to
be succored, shall there take his stand, and when he has permitted four Engines with their
companies and Eight Firewards to pass, he shall order all the other Engines M'ith their com-
panies back to their houses respectively ; and notify all the other firewards that the number
allowed to go out of town for that purpose had passed.
They also recommended that two additional men be admitted to each
engine, to use the axes, saws, etc. Engine-house 7 was moved, on August 14,
further back to the line of the school, about on the site where the Franklin
statue now stands, and a flat composition roof put on.
The Columbian JNIuseum, owned by Daniel Bowers and M. S. Do3de, on
Tremont street, had been rebuilt of brick, three stories high, and 107x30 feet
in dimensions. It again caught fire, in the upper hall, on the night of Jan-
uary 16, 1807, just one day following the fourth anniversary of its destruction
by fire in 1803. Loss, $12,000. After the fire had been controlled, the south
wall fell into the Chapel Burying-ground, and killed William Homer, 11 ;
John Condon, 14; Henry Fullerton, 20; Isaac Peabody, 15; Joshua Urann,
17 ; and James D. Beals, 13 years of age, respectively.
Fish street was the scene of the next conflagration. Tliis broke out on
Tuesday, August 18, and before it was extinguished five dwellings were
destroyed, occupied by Dr. N. Smith, I. Wakefield, Thomas Curtis, Thomas
Bell, Mr. Lathrop, Francis Cleaver, Mrs. Mandville, Samuel Hallowell, Mrs.
Pike, Mrs. A. Smith, Henry Hunters, and Mrs. Wade. The loss was $10,430.
Owing to the narrowness of this street and the entrance to North square, the
engines that ventured in these thoroughfares were soon surrounded by flames,
and were burned. Fish street was widened two and one-half feet soon after.
On February 27 the rope-walk of Samuel Andrews, at West End, w^as
burned. March 23, Thnothy Tileston's building, on Pleasant street, and the
house adjoining, occupied by Colonel Gardner and owned by Mr. Richardson,
were destroyed ; loss, $9,000. July 20, a house in Randalls lane, and on
October 25 a house in the rear of Perry May's buildings ; also Mr. Lepeau's
dwelling, in Ann street, December 4, — constituted the fire record for the year.
Messrs. Ignatius Sargent, Henry Fowle, and Samuel Sweet were chosen
firewards for the year in the place of Messrs. Parkman, Scollay, and Howard.
At tlie request of the board, two hundred feet of hemp hose was imported from
Holland, as the quality of this article made in this country and England was very
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 117
unsatisfactory. Engine 12 house was enlarged on December 2, and Engine
Company 8 asked that a meeting- room be added to their quarters. Decem-
ber 16, the members of Engine 11 petition for the removal of their house to
the foot of Summer street, and to have it enlarged. P3. Bell succeeded
Captain Swift on Engine 1, and Thomas Tileston, Captain Wheeler on
Engine 8. September 10, the necessary number of axes, saws, and other
appliances needed for the department were procured.
A petition from inhabitants of the West End was received by the fire-
wards on March 26, praying that an engine be stationed at or near Wheeler's
point, and anotlier from residents near the rope-walks at the foot of the Com-
mon, that one be placed near those buildings ; but the board refused to
grant either of these, as they reported that it seldom occurred that more than
two-thirds of the whole number of engines were brought into operation at one
time, and that, by the mode of building, tiie town was less exposed to exten-
sive conflagrations than at any period within their knowledge.
The hemp hose was put to experimental purposes to test its strength,
on March 11, 1808, but we do not know the results; judging from subse-
quent trials and reports, we take it for granted it was found wanting in
quality. Three changes were made in the officers of the department during
the year, as follows : Nathan Pratt, vice Captain Bell, Engine 1 ; Benjamin
Coomes, vice Captain Page, Engine 2 ; and John Wild, vice Captain Hemmen-
way. Engine 10.
E. Thayer was given the contract, on November 9, for building a:v
engine to take the place of Engine 6, and allowed $100 for the old one. The
representative of the General Court was requested by the selectmen, on the
same date, to have the engine-men excused from jury duty.
Messrs. Davis, Bradford, Goodwin, and Fowle were succeeded on the
Board of Firewards for this year by Edward Cruft, Barker Baker, James
Phillips, and Nathaniel Curtis.
The department was called out to the following fires : January 14, John
Fisher's house, in Wilson's lane, or the rear of 29 Cornhill ; 27th, Norcross'
brewery, on Lynn street, occupied by Daniel & Chapin, and owned by
Dr. Davis. February 19, Mr. Benjamin Weld's house, Newbury street,
corner Suffolk place. March 7, Abigail Cowall's house ; 28th, house, Fish
street. May 1 , William Cooledge's house, west side of Orange street, owned
by B. Goddard. June 6-, John Murray's dwelling and bakehouse, head of
Charter street. August 15, Mr. J. C. Dyer's brick house, Franklin street,
occupied by five tenants; 31st, ship "Arrow," at May's wharf. September
25, three houses on Elm street, occupied by Secretary-of-State Andrew
Oliver, Mr. Bailey, and a shop owned by him ; total loss, $5,500. October 19,
Capt. David Cobb's building, and Dunlap's malt-house, on Washington
street. November 29, store of Jonathan, Nathaniel, & Ireland, Pleasant
street. December 4, John Lepeau's dry-goods store, on Ann street, building
owned by Colonel Ford ; 20th, William Cooledge's house, on Orange street.
118 UISTOBY OF BOSTON FIEE BEPABTMENT.
An act was passed by the State, on March 8, forbiclcliug any vessels
having gunpowder on board from lying within two hundred feet of the
wharves. Tlie magazines were placed at Pine Island, Roxbury, and the fire-
wards were given authority to enter buildings in search of this explosive.
The law of January 2G, 1792, was repealed.
Only one change occurred in tlie Board of Firewards for the year 1809,
when Bryant P. Tilden was chosen, vice General Jackson, deceased. On
March 23 this board had a large number of poles or staffs for tlieir use
placed at the Exchange Coffee-house. The}^ also requested the selectmen to
procure an improved powder-carriage, to be placed with the deputy police-
officer, or in any other manner that would render it easily obtainable.
Captain AYiswell, of Engine 7, was succeeded by Robert New, and
Captain Tileston, of Engine 8, by Mr. AVheeler. The year was also one of
few fires iu the town, while tliose that did occur were of small dimensions.
January 4, Ephraim Jones' house. Pearl street. April 15, Mr. Bell's dwell-
ing, Lynn street. May 30, Mr. Rounds' i-esidence. Middle street. June 10,
the house of Mr. Holden, on Fish street. July 2, dwelling on Hawkins
street. October 2G, Jacob Ganger's building, corner of Summer street.
Messrs. Nathan Webb, George- Blanchai'd, James Robinson, Samuel M.
Thayer were the successors of Firewards Perkins, Dennie, Elliot, and Baker
for the year 1810. A committee was chosen by the board to make niquiries
as to Avhether leather could be obtained tanned in any particular manner moi'e
suitable and proper to make engine-hose. On May 10 Engine-house 7 was
ordered to be moved to a place on vacant land, as the Court-House was being
built ; but no accommodation could be had. and a wooden house was ordered
to be erected at the back of the Latin School. A new engine was ordered for
Engine 2, on October 3, to be one of squirt principle, and the old apparatus
was exchanged in part payment for a new one.
The most destructive fires for the year were : on Saturday, December 29,
when the old Franklin house, a three- story wooden buildiug on Milk street,
the birthplace of Benjamin Franklin, was destroyed. It was then occupied
by Mr. John S. Lillie. The fire was communicated to it from the livery
stable situated at the corner of Hawley street, kept by Stephen L. Soper.
Two houses and four barns were destroyed in this fire, the loss being $6,000.
The Old South Church took fire at this time, but was saved by the exertions
of Mr. Isaac Harris, for which he received a silver medal. The other was on
October 19, when the bakehouse of Mr. Godfrey, on Fish street, was burnt;
also his dwelUnghouse and barn, a house on Wheeler's wharf, and a barn and
two hundred cords of wood on Howai-d's wharf, the total value being $11,675.
On the 2od the Eagle Tavern, kept by Lydia Blood and owned by William
Patterson, on Back street, was destroyed ; loss, $2,300. The smaller fires
were : February 13, North School-house, on North Bennett street ; loss, $550 ;
25th, Deacon Daniel Bates' house. March 30, three houses, occupied by
Isaac Dupee and others, in Distil-house square. May 29, Samuel Beals'
niSrOEY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 110
dwelliug, on Fore street. August 20, Colonel Messenger's shop. October 9,
shop of Eliah Wheeler; 2rth, shop of Samuel Beaks. December 21, building
in the rear of 36 and 37 Marlboro' street, — No. 36 occupied by Messrs. Cop-
penhagen & Kimmer, 37 as the Indian Queen Tavern, and 35 by A. & S.
Archabald ; 27th, slight blaze at the Exchange Coffee-house, in tlie upper
floor; loss, $50. An addition was made to the Building Act on June 14,
whereby it was ordered that when one building was separated from another
by a partition wall, it was to be of brick or stone, so as to be capped with
flat stones two inches thick. This repealed the three-feet battlement law.
Engine-house 12 was moved on January 16, 1811, to Mr. R. S. Whitney's
land, on Orange street. The order to the members of the department to
wear a badge on their hats so that they could be distinguished was unheeded
by many in the strict sense of its meaning, for instead of procuring badges
they marked their hats with chalk ; this was copied by outsiders, who, when
attending a fire, would mark the number of a certain engine on their head-wear,
and in the excitement go about as they chose, often causing trouble by steal-
ing, etc., so that the firewards made it compulsory, on January 10, 1811, for
every member to procure a pVoper badge, and Avear it at all fires. A com-
munication was sent at the same time, by the board, to the religious societies
in the town for them to furnish one or more ladders of sufficient length, for
their respective churches, and to have them marked and placed in some con-
venient situation. Messrs. Joseph Tilden, Thomas Page, Joseph Austin, and
Benjamin Rich succeeded Messrs. Swett, Curtis, Davis, and Robinson on the
board for 1811. On May 27 chimney-sweeps were ordered to wear badges,
and the rates for sweeping were always fixed by the selectmen. The day
following, the removal of the gun-house to Copp's Hill, as voted by the in-
habitants, was complained of, and on November 27 a committee of the fire-
wards notified the selectmen that the house was contrary to law, and should
be made more secure ; six months' time was given in order to render it as the
law required.
Captain Francis succeeded Foreman Hersey on Engine 9..
Fires for* the year : January 2, Cornhill House, occupied by Edward
Martin, owned by D. D. Rogers ; 29th, stables on Milk street ; firemen from
Medford, Charlestown, Roxbury, Cambridge, and Cambridgeport rendered
■assistance, and received public thanks of the wards. March 19, Ezra Davis'
store, Kilby street. April- 4, Mr. Green's house, Cornhill. June 3, Caleb
Hayward's residence, Tremont street. July 12, Mr. Cooledge's house, Corn-
hill ; loss, $250; 28th, house. Milk street. September 25, glass-house. Octo-
ber 13, John Bright's building on Cambridge street, occupied by J. Blaiuey as
tin-plate shop; 18th, house of R. G-. Shaw, Fore street; 23d, Asa Adams'
house. Middle street, also Mr. Blood's dwelling. Back street. November 7,
Eben Oliver's residence, Newbury street. December 2, house on Marlboro'
street, house, Pleasant street ; 29th, store, corner of Milk and Hawley streets.
The question of hose was again considered by the wards, and on January
120' IIISTORT OF BOSTON FIIiE DEPABTMENT.
16, 1812, forty feet of sewed, and the like amount of copper- riveted, leather
hose was purchased from Philadelphia, and put to a severe test to ascei'tain
which was the best. Both styles were used after, but the riveted was prefer-
able. June 11, thirty-six staves of the wards were purchased and placed in the
following buildings : Six each at the State-House, Boylston Market, Fire and
Marine Insurance office, and the Massachusetts Mutual Fire Insurance office ;
twelve at the Exchange Coffee-house ; four each at the First Church on Sum-
mer street and the New North Church in North street ; two each at Trinity
Church in Summer street. New South Church in Summer street, Hollis-street
Church, West Boston Church in Lyude street, Federal-street Church, and the
Brattle-street Church ; and one each at the second Old North Church, or New
Brick, in Middle street, and the Stone Chapel in School street. These poles,
or Slaves of office, were placed as above for the purpose of having them easily
accessible on alarm of fire, without going to their place of business or resi-
dence, they being much too large to carry with them, except when needed.
The changes in this office for the year were Messrs. Joseph Loveriug, Gidney
King, Francis J. Oliver, John D. Williams, vice May, Head, Coates, and Sar-
gent. Two changes occurred also in the officers of the department, Eben
Oliver succeeding Captain Pratt on Engine 1, and Mr. Wilson, Captain French
on Engine 13.
February 2, house at West Boston ; March 5, the White and Black House
near Haskin's distil-house ; 28th, Captain Chapman's house, Salutation lane,
Joshua Ellis's residence, North square.
No change in the Board of Firewards occurred for 1813, and but two
fires, the least of any since the department was organized ; they were, on
March 13, the glass-house, and a stable of Mr. Boyington's tavern.
Engine-house 3 was ordered on October 6 to be enlarged and a chimney
built.
One of the firewards, Mr. King, being, as he claimed, " grossly insulted"'
at a recent fire by a Mr. J. W. Lillie, used some "degree of violence," for
which Lillie commenced an action of damage. The whole board voted, on
January 6, 1814, to support their colleague in the suit, but lost, and was
compelled to pay damage to the extent of $68.44.
April 27, the old Engine 2 was placed at the glass-house at South Boston,
and an engine company formed, but was of little service, as a new one was
asked for soon after.
In 1814 the unhappy difficulty with England led to great excitement
and grave fears in Boston, as at that time the British policy of coast descents
was extended to New England, and the sails of English cruisers could daily
be descried from our coast. The town was in a defenceless condition, the forts
almost useless, and owing to the bitter quarrels with the administration, no
help had been given or was to be looked for from the National Government.
Our citizens, kowever, took every possible measure to protect themselves, one
of which was the stationing of two each of the engine companies, under the
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 121
command of the wards, at the various bridges, who were instructed, if deemed
necessary, to cut the bridge connecting the peninsula with the mainland, to
prevent the passing of the enemy. For this purpose the companies were
stationed as follows : Engines 2 and 3, at Charles-river bridge, Benjamin
Smith and John Winslow, Jr. ; 10 and 13, Canal bridge, A. Cunningham and
Stephen Codraau ; 4 and 6, West Boston bridge, Francis J. Oliver and Joseph
Tilden ; 8 and 12, South bridge, James Phillips and Nathaniel Curtis. Those
at Chelsea, Maiden, and Brighton were to be attended to by others ; but before
companies were formed the danger had subsided. Just previous to this, the
entire department was cautioned by the wards not to volunteer their services
in any other capacity, and that they put their engines in the best possible state
of operation, and see that their complement of men was complete, and in case
of alarm to rendezvous at their respective engine-houses without delay. On
the 22d they applied to the selectmen for two float- stages, two row boats, two
tackles, blocks, and falls, ten picks, six screws, and four crow-bars, for the
purpose of destroying one hundred feet of the Canal bridge, which the partic-
ular construction and material of the bridge renders necessar}'.
Messrs. William Harris and John Winslow, Jr., were admitted on the
board in the place of Bray and Page, resigned.
The Legislature took further action on the subject of gunpowder on
February 22, whereby officers of the United States were forbidden from keep-
ing more than four hundred pounds of that article, and this had to be placed
in an underground vault or a stone or brick building, approved by the fire-
wards. On October 19 the same body passed an act making it unlawful to
erect a stable or a building for the storage of hay within one hundred and thirty
feet of any meeting-house or public building, and to have all external sides
and ends of stone or brick, unless otherwi'^e licensed by the wards. Certain
lands in Back, Marlboro', and Hawley streets were exempt from this law.
Only ten alarms were responded to during the year : January 7, Mr.
White's stable, Pond street. February 7, Mr. Homer's wood-house on Mid-
dle street. Engine 13 was frozen up at this fire, and rendered useless.
March 13, building in Fore street, occupied by four tenants ; loss, $5,240.
April 8, the Furnace Building, South Boston; 2oth, Benjamin Bass' house.
Orange street ; 29th, distil-house, owned by Joshua Knap. June 30, Mrs.
Lovering's house, Nausau street. July 18, house of Eben Niles. September
26, Mr. Cushing's residence. Common street. November, tenement house in
Elm street.
Goose-necks for engine pipes were first used on Engine 1 by Wards
Harris and King, on September 14, 1815, and proved a success. Com[)laint
was made to the ward, by the citizens that it was impossible to comply wilh
the law regarding the covering of roofs of buildings with slate at that time,
as there were none in the market ; they consequently were given nine months'
time in which to purchase these articles. Jonathan Heath succeeded Captain
New on Engine 7 this year.
122 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
November 22, Engine-house 13 was ordered to have a partition put in
for a meeting-room, and a fireplace, so that that they could heat water to
clean their engine from frost and ice. Mr. Leach Harris was promoted fore-
man of Engine 2, vice Captain Coomes.
Quite a number of fires are reported for the year, the largest of which
was on October 4, which broke out in a barn of Nathan Call, at the bottom of
Gooche's lane, which, before it was extinguished, had communicated to the
other barns, and three houses were entirely destroyed, and three others were
badly damaged. The Harvard College engine company rendered assistance,
and was higlil}' complimented by the wards. The other fires were : January
16, Mr. Bumstead's house, near the new market; 25th, Mr. Huger's dwelling,
South Bennett street ; 29th, E. Cobb's building, AVashington street. Febru-
ary 18, house in Richmond street; 22d, house of Levi Harris, in Negro
alley. March 15, stable on Tremont street; 22d. building (no particulars).
April 3, barn near Purchase street ; 4th, Mr. Hale's barn in High street ;
building of Benjamin Bass on Orange street ; 28th, a tenement occupied by
Mr. Lerued and others on North Bennet street. June 13, .John Gibson's
store, School street. September 23, glass-house. November 11, Edwin
Cotton's residence, Marlboro' street.
Gunpowder was again a subject of legislation at the State-House on
January 18, 1816. By an act passed on that day it was compulsory for those
selling this explosive to obtain a license from the flrewards at a cost of
S5, and $1 for each renewal, this money to go towards the expense
under which the board was placed in carrying out the law. They
also had authority to have the powder in a building removed to a place of
safety, in case of an alarm of fire. On July 3 the wards made a code of
rules and regulations for those who intended keeping powder for sale, by
which it was ordered that those selling at retail were restricted to twenty-five
pounds, to be divided into canisters of twelve and a half pounds each, and
have a sign placed near the door of the store, with the words, " Licensed to
Keep and Sell Gunpowder." The wholesale dealers were allowed one hundred
pounds, to be kept in four leather bags, marked " Gunpowder," and incased
in a copper chest, with two handles and closed copper cover, which was to be
placed in a convenient part of the store. This was to remain in the building
six hours only during the day, when it had to be removed to the magazine at
Fort Strong or South Boston, at the risk of owner.
The Massachusetts Fire and Marine Insurance Company soon after
establishing their business took an interest in the engine companies, and
publicly announced, during November 21, 1796, that they would give a bounty
of $10 to the company first at a fire. This was again voted upon, and
recorded with the vote of the town regarding their premium of £5 on March
7, 1816.
Mr. Turner Phillips was chosen a fireward for the year, in the place of
Mr. Sullivan. Judgment was obtained against their secretary and Mr. Oliver,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 123
ou July 3, for trespass and seizing gunpowder, the damages of which
amounted to $110.50, which the selectmen voted should be paid out of the
town treasury. Engine 13 being condemned, a new one was ordered to take
its place, September 18, which was called the " Rapid 13." On December 30
four additional men were added to the list of Engine 7.
Fires : February 29, barn of Benjamin Cobb, Washington street.
March 4, Mr. Bean's store, Boylston street; 21st, house in Fish street;
28th, a building occupied by Isaac Howe and others in Prince street. April
10, building at Long wharf. June 17, glass-house and lime-kiln ; 26th, I. D.
Howard's building, Washington street. July 16, Mr. Lovering's dwelling on
Nausau street. August 22, D. Hayward's house, Newbury street. Septem-
ber 15, Captain Simanton's vessel, lying at Central wharf. October 20,
building of Thomas B. Wales, Lloyd's wharf ; 26th, stable on Nausau street,
occupied by Mrs. A. C. Dorr, and owned by Joseph Levering ; 30th, Mr.
Robinson's house, on Orange street. November 23, A. Willard's barn, on
Washington street.
Just off the head of Long wharf, on artillery election day, 1817, there ■
was anchored the Canton packet, "James and Thomas Handyside Perkins,"
a ship of three or four hundred tons burden, employed in the India trade.
It was all ready to sail on the day following for the Isle of France, with a
full cargo of general merchandise and $400,000 in specie. The crew went
ashore to enjoy the festivities of the holiday, and left the colored steward,
William Read, of Philadelphia, on board. He was so angry at this treat-
ment, that at about 11 o'clock in the morning he took revenge by discharging
a pistol in a barrel of powder stored among many others in the magazine of
the ship. As a matter of course, the discharge blew the vessel into frag-
ments. This affair was the origin of the famous byword of bygone days :
"Who blew up the ship? " which was answered by the colored folks, to whom
it was always addressed, by "Who put out the moon?" alluding to a
famous exploit of an engine company, who once dragged their engine to the
end of Long wharf to extinguish what appeared to be a large fire, but proved
to be only the rising of an extraordinary bright full moon ou a somewhat hazy
summer evening.
On June 12, 1817, the wards made a thorough examination of all the lad-
ders furnished by the religious societies, and had them repaired. Circulars
were also sent to those societies who had neglected to provide them ; and to
the Long wharf, India wharf, and Central wharf corporations, for each of
them to furnish a ladder as soon as possible. Orders were then issued to
have the ladders returned to their proper places after being used at a fire.
Baker's patent pumps were placed on the several wharves of the town for use
at fires at this time. Mr. Levi Melcher was appointed keeper of the maga-
zine at Fort Strong on Noddle's Island (East Boston), on July 12, he being
placed under $5,000 bonds ; but only remained in this position a few
weeks, when he was discharged and prosecuted by the wards, but their action
124 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPARTMENT.
was not sustained by the Court. Messrs. Joseph Davis and Bryant P. Tilden
succeeded Firewards Craft and Winslow, Jr., this year.
Number of fires : January 8, school-house, School street ; loss, $200 ;
Major Fairbank's dwelling, owned by Mrs. Kelton, Orange street ; 29th,
house of Mr. Wentworth, bottom of Peck's lane ; Mr. Cudworth's carpenter
shop, Myrtle street. February 12, Messrs. George Jackson & Co.'s candle-
works, Washington street. March 20, Messrs. Wood & Long's store, at the
north side of Central street, West End, owned by Samuel and David Deveus,
Charlestown ; loss, $500. April 7, barn in Garden street, house in Kilby
street. May 26, Messrs. Gregg & Eastj^'s building, South Boston ; a barn,
chaise-house, and a shed filled with shingles, occupied by Lincoln & Jackson,
on wharf near West Boston bridge, Joseph Adams, of Charlestown, owner;
loss, $950.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 125
CHAPTEK XI.
1818-1822.
OWING to the trouble experienced by the wards in carrying the fire and
gunpowder laws into effect, and the expense naturally attending the
same, they petitioned the selectmen, on February 4, 1818, that their expenses be
paid hereafter out of the town treasury. The selectmen were of the opini'on
that " it did comport with the honor or dignity of the town that the board of
Firewards who risked their lives and health for the preservation of the lives
and property of their fellow citizens without any salary or emolument from
their office should be subject to the expense occurring in the discharge of their
duty, Voted that in consideration of the arduous task the firewards were sub-
jected to in carrying the Fii'e and Powder laws into effect and the expense
inaterially attending the same, that they be authorized to lay their accounts
before the board of allowance, deducting the sum they may receive from fires
and forfeitures from the fire and powder laws, provided the expence does not
exceed two hundred and fift}' dollars per annum." Two changes occurred in
the board for 1818. Messrs. Lemuel Shaw and John Bray succeeding Joseph
Tilden and B. P. Tildeu. The vote passed September 4 last, to close the
magazine at Fort Strong, was rescinded on March 19, and the magazine was
again placed as a deposit for powder. They employed Mr. Ephraim Thayer
to examine the hose and screws of all the engines, and fit the screws so the
hose would connect with each other. Each engine was also furnished with
ninety feet of drag-rope. On August 12, a new brick house was ordered to
be built for Cataract Engine 14 on Milk street ; but the land was found to be
so very marshy that a suitable foundation could not be laid without a very
great expense, therefore a wooden structure was erected by Mr. Thaxter.
The famous Exchange Coffee-house, built, as was reported, at an expense
of S500,000 by Barnum, on Congress street, was discovered to be on fire, in
the south-west corner of the attic, about 7 o'clock on the evening of Novem-
ber 3. The height of the fire, and the impossibility of getting water to reach
the flames, which were rapidly making their way behind the partitions, rendered
the spirited efforts of the citizens and firemen of no avail, and it was therefore
consumed in about three hours. About nine o'clock the noble dome fell with
a crash ; this was soon followed by the north and south walls, which damaged
contiguous buildings. An immense concourse of citizens, and many from the
surrounding country, were spectators to the scene. The light penetrated far
into the country, so as to be clearly visible upwards of fifty miles. The
following morning the front walls, ninety feet in height and eighty feet wide,
126 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
stood tottering over the people's head, and threatened to crush the building
opposite, but were levelled without accident. The building covered thirteen
thousand square feet of ground, and contained two hundred and ten rooms.
One other building at the corner of Congress and Devonshire streets was also
consumed. According to the report by the committee of wards who investigated
the matter, the building was not so valuable as reported. From their state-
ment, we learn that the fire originated from a defective flue, and that the loss
was as follows : the Exchange building, including the building on Devonshire
street, $60,000 ; furniture and wines, $30,000. Those of the occupants of the
other building were : James Prince, $4,000 ; Young & Muns, printers, $1,500 ;
J. W. Taylor, Congress street, $1,500 ; D. D. Rogers, $500 ; Suftblk Insurance
Company, $300; Rev. Mr. Bradford, $400; Mr. Lincoln, printer, $1,200;
Parmenter & Martin, printers, $200 ; William M. Clapp, printer, $70 ; T.
Badger, printer, $550; Wells & Libby, $1,500; and miscellaneous, $179;
total, $101,899. Fire was found in the ruins three months afterwards, and
Engine 7, which was the first to arrive on the scene, was afterwards dis-
covered to have had sufficient power to reach the fire had there been no inter-
vening obstacle.
Immediately after this conflagration, a committee of wards, consisting of
Melville, Rich, and Codman, was appointed to consider as to the advisability
of increasing the number of gentlemen in that office, they reported that
an addition of six men be added ; therefore, on application, the General
Court authorized thirty firewards to be voted for at the next town meeting.
May, 1819, when the following change occurred : Messrs. Cunningham, Wins-
low, Hunnewell, Rich, King, Oliver, and Harris resigned, and Messrs. Ben-
jamin Russell, Thomas Jackson, Winslow Lewis, Amos Beuney, Enoch Silsby,
Isaac Harris, George W. Otis, Joseph Jones, William Howe, Jonathan Whit-
ney, and Jeremiah Fitch were elected. Mr. John Howe declining, Samuel A.
Wells was chosen in his place May 21.
Other fires for 1818 : January 26, house on North Russell street. April
2, Mr. Frost's building. Court street. June 6, Jacob Jacob's shop. Pleasant
street. July 18, bakery of Eben Garrison on Back street, owned by heirs
Deacon Joseph. August 5, cooper shop, Commercial street; 14th, Messrs.
Austin's buildings, Hancock street ; 28th, Mr. Kelton's barn. Orange street.
September, stable next to the Washington Garden. October 26, Mr. Rust's
dwelling. Prince street. November 9, Messrs. Brown & Rainsford building.
Marlborough street.
An act entitled " An Act to secure the town of Boston from Damage by
fire" was passed by the Legislature on February 16, in which was embraced
all the laws on this subject previously passed ; the other acts w^ere repealed,
except such parts as may be necessary to recover fines and penalties incurred
from these acts.
The first serious trouble between the wards and the engine companies
occurred during 1819. A member of Engine 12 had some difficulty with a
IIISTOUY OF BOSTON FIRE BEPAltTMENT. 127
fireward, iu consequence of M'hich the former was prosecuted, but acquitted.
The company, however, paid his expenses, amounting to $20, which they
requested should be returned to tliem by the town through the wards ; but
not hearing from them as soon as expected, altliough the committee from
that body appointed to act in the matter had called on Mr. White, the clerk
of the company, and informed him that they would meet them at a time and
place most convenient to the members, the result was a misunderstanding,
and Captain Sears of the engine, in behalf of the company, sent in a letter of
resignation on January 27. This was accepted by the wards, but Capt. John
Wheeler, chairman of the Associated Engine Societies of Boston, asked, on
February 10, that the company be reinstated. The committee therefore met
Company Commanders Wheeler, Nath. Frothingham, Jr., Joshua Vose, Jared
Heath, Robert New, John Julmer, and Joel Shipley to consider the matter,
which resulted in the disbandment of the company.
The competition of the companies in first throwing water on a fire resulted
in the members resorting to many schemes to receive the premium, one of
which was to fill the engine with water while at quarters, so as to have enough
to "play away" until their engine was connected ; but this little smartness
was entirely handicaped by the wards on October 28, as they issued orders
stating that no prizes would be given to a company carrying water in their
engines, as it was liable to freeze and render the engines useless.
A patent bolt- rope was first used at this time for dragging the apparatus.
A committee, consisting of Messrs. Tilden, Phillips, and Binney, was also
chosen to procure an additional number of ladders and fire-hooks, and to
establish a system for getting them to fires and rendering thein useful. This
resulted in the appointment of the firemen, and the origin- of the hook and
ladder company. At their request the Legislature passed an act on February
7, 1820, authorizing the selectmen to appoint a number of men, not exceeding
thirty, with tlie same privileges as engine-men, for the purpose of conveying
to and from a fire all the ladders and fire-hooks. These men were to be
called firemen, and organized into one or more companies, who were to meet
some time in the month of May annually, when they should choose a foreman
and a clerk, and establish rules and regulations as approved by the selectmen,
and to annex penalties for the violation of the same, which could be recovered
iDy the clerk before any justice of the peace, provided that such penalty shall
exceed the sum of $6.67. .They were also requested to meet once in every
month to look after the apparatus in their care.
The method of giving an alarm was also considered, and a letter sent on
March 8, 1820, to the secretary of each religious society requesting them not
to employ any person as sexton who may be a member of the department, and
to have the sextons attend their bells immediately on an alarm of fire, and
continue with them until the alarm may have subsided.
February 17, 1819, additional orders were given to the town watch,
whereby they were to alarm citizens as soon as they discovered fire, and one
128 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
was to ring a bell while the others helped those in danger until assistance
arrived, when they were to go about their own duties.
From an entry in the selectmen's report for November 15, it appears that
a disastrous fire occurred at the rope-walk, which was of incendiary origin, and
the selectmen were petitioned to offer a reward for their conviction, the
amount to be subscribed by the citizens. "We cannot find any other reference
to this occurrence, the fires reported for the year being as follows : Feb-
ruary 21, Mr. Hart's ship-yard; a wooden buildiug on Ship street, owned
by Edward Hartt, and occupied by Saul Hartt and Joseph L. Tallman as a
workshop; loss, $1,750; also a small buildiug of Mr. G. L. Williams; loss,
$100 ; 24th, B. Wheeler's house, Newbury street ; 27th, building on Swett's
wharf, owned by Thomas Thompson, occupied by R. Howe, cooper, Samuel
Hichborn, sailmaker, and Messrs. Adam Jennison & Chamberlain, caulkers ;
loss, $4,766. March 17, Mr. Pratt's building, Mill Pond street. June 22,
Mrs. White's dwelling, Winter street. August, store on Dillaway's wharf.
September 29, house on Warren street. October 12, building of John Moore's
on the Turnpike, at South Boston. November 25, Oliver Mills' house. Mason
street. December 7, distil-house in Leverett street.
March 30, 1820, the board recommended the purchase of a lantern for
each engine, to be numbered and carried with the apparatus during the night ;
the method of attaching them was left to the discretion of the foremen.
Engine-houses 1 and 2 were ordered to be enlarged on September 7. Captain
Truman of Engine 4 enters a complaint against Fireward George Darricott
at this time, but it was satisfactorily settled. Messrs. William Burrows,
Samuel Hichborn, Jr., Jonathan Thaxter, and George Darricott were chosen
wards, vice Messrs. Webb, Austin, Phillips, and Berry.
The first hook and ladder was organized on August 4, when the firewards
provided a convenient carriage, equipped with ladders, axes, and hooks.
Applicants for admission as members began to come in, and a company was
rapidly formed. This was numbered 1, and lodged in a shed on Merrimac
street.
On application of school committee on March 29, twenty-five fire-buckets
were placed in each of the school-houses. Captain Brown was made com-
pany commander of Engine 11, Captain Sargent of Engine 1, Nathan Ham-
mond of Engine 13, and Captain Frothingham of Engine 9, this year.
Fires : January 14, house owned by Benjamin Wild, occupied by Mrs.
Green; 17th, Captain Prentiess' building, Dillaway's wharf; 23d, house in
Proctor's lane ; 29th, Scott & Clapp's store on Swett's wharf. February 3,
Hawkins-street School-house, set on fire by boys ; loss, $250 ; 26th, Jonathan
Heath's store, State street. March 7, Jonathan Heath's store, 7 Cornhill ;
loss, $7,000. April 14, Mrs. White's house, Mason street. May 13, dwell-
ing on Bojdston street. June 26, the brew-house of John Snowdon & J.
Cooper on Leverett street; loss, $19,650. July 23, Dr. Dix's residence.
Orange street. August 23, the store of James Cook, 22 Broad street.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 129
October 6, Capt. Winslow. Lewis' rope- walk ; 26th, Mrs. Payne's house, Fed-
eral and Mill streets, November 13, one of the rope-walks. December 11,
house on Court street; 16th, dwelling in Wilson's lane; 22d, building
occupied by John C. Proctor and C. H. Jones on Friend street.
Mr. George G. Channing was appointed by the selectmen on February
7, 1821, at which time the company went into commission, as director of the
Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, which position he accepted. The com-
pany consisted of twenty-four men, as follows : Charles Leighton, foreman ;
John Babbit, John Reed, George Tucker, James Denton, Leonard Darling,
John Kittredge, Levi L. Gushing, William Ayres, Benjamin Adlington, Levi
L. Wawick, Robert Hayden, Samuel Chase, Isaac Butterfield, Elisha Good-
uow, Adisou Burnham, Alanda Wright, Jonathan Chamberlain, Samuel S.
Crocker, William Church, Warren Lathrop, Timothy Fipander, Pelig Hayden,
and William Snowdon. The directors of the Fire and Marine, the Merchants',
and the Mutual Fire Insurance Companies were asked by the firewards if they
would grant a premium to the ladder company, upon which they agreed to
pay an annual award of $20, provided the town would pay |10, on con-
dition that the company annually produce in the month of March or April
a certificate from the wards to the effect that they had performed their Avork
satisfactorily as firemen. A new patent life pole or ladder was purchased for
the company during the year at an expense of $50.
A petition was received from the inhabitants of South Boston, on March
21, for an engine to be placed in that section ; but it was not considered ex-
pedient to do so at that time, but a new one for the North End was ordered.
In order to get the best that could be obtained, one each was made by Mr.
Hunneman and Mr. Thayer, — the best to be bought. The selection was of the
former make ; but the engine proved to be an experiment, and not all the con-
tract called for. It was, however, soon put in order and placed in a building
on Lincoln wharf, South End, on February 13, 1822, where a company was
organized, headed by John Foster, to take charge. It was called Boston
No. 15.
Firewards Davis, Curtis, and B. P. Tilden were succeeded on the board
for 1821 by Messrs. James Davis, Eliphalet Williams, and John H. Wheeler.
A most disastrous fire happened about 9 o'clock on the night of January
17, this year. It broke out in a four-story tenement, 98 Broad street,
occupied by Mr. Connelly as a storage of quills, on the first floor, — the other
tenants being Patrick Jackson ; Elizabeth, his wife ; Mrs. Ann Taylor ; her
son William, five years old ; and Mrs. Susan Aston Dysters ; their mother,
Mrs. Elizabeth Brewer ; and her grandchild, Eliza Palfrey, seven years old,
all of whom were burned to death, except Mrs. Aston, who was killed by jump-
ing from the third-story window. A son of Mr. Jackson escaped by the
waterspout.
The other fires were : January 1, house on Pleasant street ; 17th, building
on Belknap street;' 20th, house next to the theatre ; 23d, dwelling, Thos. B.
130 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Wales ; 26th, distil-house ;, 30th, house on Broad street. February 25, John
Longley's soap-works, Warren street. June 29, William Jones' house, Ann
street. July 14, six buildings in Union street ; 20th, house near post-office,
on Water street. August 8, tenements in Scott's court ; 13th, house in Back
street. September 23, residence in Tileston street. December 14, Mrs.
Oarney's house, 10 Grange street ; 31st, Capt. Wm. Little's house.
We find the following changes in the company commanders this year :
Engine 9, Captain Thaxter ; Captain Sargent, Engine 1 ; Nathaniel Nottage,
Engine 2 ; Captain Salmon, Engine 14 ; Captain Brown, Engine 11 ; Ebenezer
White, Engine 7.
At a meeting of citizens at Merchants' Hall, on January 17, a connnittee
of five were chosen to inquire into the' probable cause and extent of an unusual
number of wells having become dry in one district of the town. On examining
the state of the wells in Common, Boylston, Elliott, Warren, and Pleasant
streets, and Sheafe's lane, seventy-two were found dry. In Common street,
from West to Boylston street, there were twenty-eight wells, of which twenty-
one were dr}', and the remainder, with the exception of one, had very little
water in them. The greater part of the wells in the other streets that had
not failed, had but a limited supply, except on the west side of Pleasant street,
where several wells contained six, eight, and ten feet of w^ater, which, in the
very dry season, always draughted twelve, sixteen, and eighteen feet of water.
The laboratory well which had never contained less than ten feet, at this time
measured only four feet of water. One well on Boylston street, only seven
inches of water was found ; previously it never registered less than seven
feet, — so that, in this section of the town, the water had been lowered six
feet on an average. The committee, in their report on the 24th, were unan-
imous in their opinion that the deficiency of water was wholly' caused by the
tide-water having been stopped out by the Mill Dam.
PART II.
1822-1873.
/
^^'^.%,
Ex -Chief Exgixeers. — Page Hi.
PART II.
FROM 1822 TO 1873.
CHAPTER I.
1822-1824.
THE inconvenience resulting from the form of town government became
apparent to the intelligent and influential citizens of Boston as early as
1784, when, during the month of May, in the petition of a large number of the
inhabitants, a committee of thirteen was appointed to " consider the expedi-
ency of applying to the General Court for an act to form the town of Boston
into an incorporated City, and report a plan of alteration in the present gov-
ernment of the police, if such be deemed elegible." On the Fourth of July
ensuing, this committee reported two plans, which, being read, were ordered
to be printed and distributed to each house, the town adjourning to the
17th of the same month to take them into consideration. At this meeting-
it was ordered that " the sense of the town be taken on the expediency
of making any alterations in the present form of town government." On
which question the records state : " But the impatience of the inhabitants
for the question being immediately put, prevented any debate thereon, and it
passed in the negative by a great majority, and the meeting was immediately
dissolved."
During November, 1785, the attempt was again tried, and a committee
chosen, " to state the defects of the present constitution of the town, and to
report how far the same ma}^ be remedied without an act of incorpoi'ation."
They reported " that they did not report any defects in the constitution."
This was accepted, and leave given to the petitioners to withdraw their
paper. Again was the subject renewed in December, 1791, by the petition
of a number of inhabitants, " setting forth the want of an efficient police."
The system reported by the committee was afterwards amended and printed
and distributed in handbills. The town adjourned until January 26, ensuing,
for its final consideration, when it was rejected by a vote of five hundred and
seventeen for and seven hundred and one against the measure.
The matter was given a rest until January, 1804, when a committee
equally selected from the two political factions, which at the time divided the
(135)
136 HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIBE DEPABTMENT.
town and CommonAvealth, was chosen and instructed to consider and report
any alterations in the town government they deemed expedient. This was
done during March, but met with the same fate as those preceding it.
Again did the subject lay dormant until 1815, when Charles Bulfinch,
who had been chairman of the Board of Selectmen, and superintendent of
police, since 1800, together with two other members of that board, were not
reelected.. This was a general surprise, much regretted, the result being
that every elected member of the Board of Selectmen immediatelj' resigned.
On the second election INIr. Bulfinch and the other members of the board of the
preceeding year were reinstated by decided majorities. These occurrences
again directed public attention to the disadvantages of town government ;
and on the petition of a large number of the inhabitants, a committee formed
of two individuals elected from each ward was authorized to consider the
expediency of a change of the government; therefore, in October, 1815, this
committee presented a bill, accompanied by an explanatory report, which was
printed for general distribution, aud a town meeting was called on November
13 to decide upon its acceptance. The system proposed was more to the
liking of the people, being only defeated by a majority of thirt3'-five.
With a population upwards of forty thousand, and with seven thousand
qualified votes, it was found impossible to conduct the municipal interest of the
place under the form of town government. When a subject was not generally
exciting, town meetings were usually composed of the selectmen, the town offi-
cers, and thirty or forty inhabitants. In assemblies thus formed bj'^-laws were
passed, taxes to the amount of $150,000 voted, on statements often general in
their nature, and on reports, as it respects the majority of others present, taken
upon trust, and which no one had carefully considered, except, perhaps, the
chairman. The constitution of Massachusetts, Avhich was passed in 1780,
contained no express authority to establish a city organization, and in every
attempt to change that of the town it never failed to be zealously' contended
that the Legislature of the Commonwealth possessed no such power. But by
the amendments to the constitution, made by the convention of 1820, and
adopted by the people, this power was expressly recognized. The question,
therefore, now stood on its own merits, and independent of constitutional
objections.
The first steps to the measure which finally led to this great change in the
form of town government was rather incidental than preconcerted, and was
the result of circumstances which might be anticipated from the complicated
and ill -arranged organization of the town system. Early in the civil year
1811, votes had passed in town meeting for uniting the office of county and
town treasurer in one person. The three wards constituting the committee of
finance had disregarded these votes, aud different persons were chosen to
these offices, which, as a matter of course, created a disturbance among the
populace. To add to this, great discontent arose in respect to the county
expenditures, and a committee was chosen to devise measures that the town
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 137
might become a county by itself. Very full reports were made by both these
committees, and a very general desn-e became apparent that a more econom-
ical and practical management of the town concerns should be effected.
Accordingly, on October 22, a committee of thirteen inhabitants were
selected, to whom the two former reports were referred, with instructions to
report to the town " a complete system relating to the administration of the
town and county which shall remedy the present evils."
This committee made three reports in December, 1821, but did not ven-
ture to go further than to recommend some improvements in the government
of the town. But this did not please many of the enthusiasts for the city
charter, among whom was Mr. Benjamin Russell, a popular and distinguished
politician and leader among the mechanics, who openly declared that the com-
mittee " had not gone far enough in its alterations, and, in his opinion, a great
change had been effected in the minds of the inhabitants on the subject of city
government," and concluding his remarks by moving " that the report should
be recommitted to the same committee, with the addition of one person from
each ward of the town, with instruction to report a system of the govern-
ment of the town, with such powers, privileges, and immunities as are
contemplated by the amendment of the constitution of the Commonwealth,
authorizing the General Court to constitute a city government." This motion
was accordingly adopted, and twelve persons chosen and added to the former
committee.
This committee of twenty-five, on December, 1821, reported a system of
municipal government conformably to their instructions, recommending in-
deed a change of the name of " town " for that of " city," but not venturing
to introduce the names usual in city organizations, lest the ancient jealousy,
which now seemed to slumber, should be awakened. In their stead the com-
mittee proposed that the executive should be called "intendaut," the execu-
tive board, consisting of seven persons, " selectmen," and the more numerous
branch, '' a Board of Assistants," all of whom, in their aggregate capacity,
should be called the " Common Council," the intend ant to be elected by the
selectmen; the selectmen, by general ticket ; the assistants, forty-eight in
number, four chosen from each ward; the overseers of the. poor, fire-wards,
and school committee, by the intendant, selectmen, and assistants ; the State
and United States officers, by general ticket.
After a debate of three days, in which the report was amended by de-
nominating the executive board " Maj^or and Aldermen," the latter to consist of
eight persons, the name of the " Board of Assistants," being also changed to
that of the ''Common Council," and in their aggregate capacity, " the City
Council," the mayor, aldermen, overseers of the poor, firewards, State and
United States officers to be chosen by the citizens at large, voting in wards,
report was so far accepted as to be submitted to the inhabitants for their
acceptance. During the three days of debate the citizens became very
excited ; but the measure was finally submitted to the populace for their
138 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
sanction, in the form of five resolves to be decided by ballot of yea and nay,
which, being taken on Monday, January 7, 1822, was adopted by a large
majority.
The assent of the inhabitants being in favor, measures were nnmediately
taken to obtain the sanction of the Legislature of the Commonwealth, resulting
in that body passing, on February 23, the same year, an act which was com-
monly called the " city charter," entitled " An act establishing the city of
Boston." In conformity with its provisions, the inhabitants assembled in
general meeting on March 4, ensuing, and accepted the act by vote, taken by
ballot, by a majority of 916, the whole number being 4,778, of which 2,797
voted in the affirmative, and 1,881 in the negative.
On April 8, a meeting of the citizens was held for the election of city
officers ; the whole number of votes for mayor was 3,708. They were chiefly
divided between Josiah Quincy and Harrison Gray Otis ; but neither having a
majority, no choice was effected. Immediately on this result, Mr. Otis and
Mr. Qumcy declined being a candidate for office. 'On the 16th, John Phillips
was elected mayor with great unanimity.
The city government was organized for the first time on Wednesday,
May 1, 1822, with a solemnity adapted to the general interest excited by the
occasion. A platform was raised at the west end of Faneuil Hall, with seats
for the mayor, aldermen, and City Council, the selectmen of the past year,
with other town authorities, and the chief officers of the Commonwealth. The
floor of the house and the galleries were filled with a crowded assembly.
The city charter, enclosed in a silver case, was laid upon a table in front of
the City Council. After prayer, offered by the Rev. Thomas Baldwin, D.D.,
the oldest settled clergyman in Boston, the oaths of allegiance and of office
were administered to John Phillips, the mayor-elect, by Isaac Parker, chief
justice of the Commonwealth, and afterwards by the mayor to the aldermen
and Common Council. The chairman of the last Board of Selectmen, Eliphalet
Williams, then arose and addressed the convention, stating the grant of a
city charter by the Legislature of the State to the inhabitants of Boston, their
acceptance of it, their election of the members of the legislative boards,
and delivered into the charge of the new authorities the town records and
title-deeds, and the act establishing the city of Boston. He was followed by
a reply from the mayor, after which the meeting adjourned.
Three firewards were elected from each of the twelve wards on April 12,
1823, as follows: Ward 1, Benjamin Coomey, Eliaza Pratt, and Stephen
Locke ; Ward 2, John F. Truman, Joseph Stone, and Daniel Ballard ;
Ward 3, Robert Bacon, John Minate, and Genet Holbrook ; Ward 4,
Thomas Melville, James Davis, and Jeremiah Fitch ; Ward 5, Jonathan
Thaxter, George W. Otis, and Jonathan Whitney; Ward 6, Jered Lincoln,
Joel Shipley, and Joseph H. Adams ; Ward 7, Stephen Codman, Samuel M.
Thayer, and William Tileston ; Ward 8, Levi Brigham, James Magee, and
William Tucker; Ward 9, Joseph Jones, Benjamin Darling, and Leah
uistohy of boston fire bepaetment. 139
Harris; Ward 10, Daniel Messenger, Thomas Jackson, and Luke Richard-
sou; Ward 11, John L. Phillips, John H. Whuter, and Jaben Ellis; Ward
12, John D. Williams, Noah Brooks, and Samuel S. Wheeler. On the 17th
substitutes were chosen in the place of those who declined the election ;
they were. Ward 6, Jonathan Loring ; Ward 8, Bryant P. Tilden ; Ward 9,
Benjamin Russell; and Ward 11, Winslow Lewis. Almost the first act of
this board was the repairing of Engine-house 12, at an expense of $100, and
the enlargement of the ladder-house ; also the purchase of some hooks for
that apparatus, Mr, Charles Leigh ton being appointed master of the com-
pany. They voted on January to hold their meetings more often on account
of the increased amount of business of which they had charge. Circulars
were printed and distributed by their order regarding the erection of wooden
buildings. The entire control of the apparatus and buildings belonging to the
department was granted to them, with power to exchange or sell any old
engine, hose, etc., as they may deem expedient. Those having charge of the
several engines were to return a list of the foremen, with their address each
year. The one sent in for the year ensuing was as follows: No. 1, Loring
Sargent ; No. 2, Nathaniel Nottage ; No. 3, William Barnicoat, and J. P.
Orcutt, assistant; No. 4, Samuel Hosea ; No. 5, Frederick Weld; No. 6,
Joel Prouty, and John Vannevar, assistant. No. 7, Ebenezer White ; No.
8, William Loring; No. 9, Seth Thaxter ; No. 10, Jacob Phelpes ; No. 11,
Jarvis Brown; No. 12, Asa Lewis; No. 13, Nathaniel Hammon, and Mel-
zar Dunbar, assistant; No. 14, John Salmon, and David Horner, assistant;
No. 15, Samuel Walker; Ladder 1, Charles Leightou. Engines 12 and 15
were allowed an additional number of members, and Engine 2 was replaced
by a new machine from the works of E. Thayer on September 25.
The matter of a suitable hose was a question that was most perplexing,
and experiments were frequently made by the wards and others interested in
the department on the strength and durability of untanned and unprepared
leather, which resulted in a great expense and risk to the town. The failure
of the hose and the power of the engine at the Exchange Coffee-house was
most disastrous. At one fire, nearly all the hose of three engines burst in
succession. The town was put to a great expense by importing hose from
England, nearly all of which were burst on the first trial, and the rest
proved to be far from perfect. Had there been a suitable person who under-
stood the matter, all this trouble could have been avoided, and they would
have found out, as they did soon after, that the State of Massachusetts could
furnish as good leather for the purpose, and as good workmen, as any the
world afforded. The leather used by them was not stuffed or filled with a
proper composition to render them impervious to water, thus preventing pre-
mature decay. At one fire the sixty feet of hose of a certain engine (which
had just been proved and considered better than usual) was ruined by being
packed in the engine-box without proper attention in drying, as two weeks
later it was covered with slime nearly a quarter of an inch thick ; so that
140 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
when it was proven again, it burst in a nnmber of places, tlie stitches
being entirely rotten. 'I'hey were then sewed together anew, and at the next
trial it was proved that the leather had also perished, so that it was rent from
the stitching. The hose,*then, was condemned as useless ; but this was not
an unusual occurrence, which happened by reason of the same carelessness.
The engine-men were not altogether to blame in this particular, for they had a
laudal)le pride in keeping their engine in good order. The great part of the
mischief came from an ancient custom of dignifying the 3'ounger members of
an engine company by the illustrious name of the two " Catos," and then
putting them to do all the drudgery, — such as looking for axes and buckets
after a fire, shovelling snow, and greasing and taking care of the hose, etc.
Another cause of failure in the hose was that there was not a sufficient
number provided and properly prepared to be in readiness when most wanted.
In consequence of this neglect, a hose was generally suffered to be wet before
it was properly prepared, and also strained to the utmost power of the engine
before the composition intended to preserve it and render it impervious to
water would be combined and consolidated with the leather. Jt required
some years before they had brought this important branch of the department
to a satisfactory condition.
A petition was received by the selectmen, on March 6, from Asa Lewis,
asking that the town vote to petition the Legislature, at their next session, so
far to alter or repeal the existing laws regulating the building within the
town, as to permit the citizens to erect wooden buildings, to be occupied as
dwelling houses, of eighteen-feet posts, and roof of a regular pitch of one-
third of the building, which in no case was to be elevated more than eighteen
inches from the line of the street to the bottom of the sill, and not to have the
sill to the highest point of the roof ; the roof to be not more than twenty-five
feet upon the ground ; to be slated, and have at least one window or scuttle.
Whenever two or more buildings should be joined together, there Avas to be a
brick partition-wall of at least eight inches in thickness ; and whenever such
building should be erected within six feet of any other wooden building of
more than ten-feet posts, to have a brick party-wall. The vote stood on the
matter, 2,837 yeas, and 574 nays — so the question passed in the affirmative,
and, on June la, an act was i)assed by the Legislature which complied with
this request.
Fii-es : January, Old State-House. April 20, carpenter shop, Wheeler's
point; 30th, Mr. Tucker's store, Lewis wharf. May 9, building in Merchants'
row. June 13, house on Sheafe street ; 14th, the building on Tisdell's wharf.
July 17, Lewis Burck's cabinet-makers' shop, Blackstone street, owned by
EdAvin Collamore ; loss, $2,000 : 3f)th, brimstone factory of Mr. Brimley,
South Boston. October, Clapp & Gulliver's store, Carver street. November
22, house on IMarlborough street, Widow Thomas' house, Foi't Hill ; 24th,
Capt. I. W. Lewis' dwelling, Oliver street. December 1, gas-house ; 4th,
house of Obel Baker, State street; 30th, Samuel Jones' store. Back street.
HISTOIiY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 141
Neither the inclination nor the health of Mayor Phillips permitted him
to become a candidate for a second election, and on May, 1823, the municipal
authorities of the city of Boston were organized for the second time in
Faneuil Hall, when ex-Mayor Phillips administered, as justice of the peace,
the oath of office to Josiah Quincy, his successor, before the close of whose
administration the department was to be so thoroughly changed.
The fire department was sadly in need of a reform that would place it on
an equal footing with the advancement made in the other departments,
and to meet the transition state under which it was advancing to that period
when, by the increase of population, ties of individual interest were dimin-
ished, and the duty of joining some fire company and assisting in the extin-
guishment of every fire was considered imperative, as was the case in the
colonial days, when the inhabitants were few and the insurance system not
known, the losses being sustained by the help of one another. After the
estal)lishment of this business, whereby the loss was transferred to capitalists,
the inhabitants began to lose interest in the department. The members of
engine companies had all the enthusiasm that men could possess, and took
the greatest pride in the opinion that they were the guardians of the city
against this element. Fearless, energetic, and the love of duty of the busi-
ness made them most able firemen, and the premiums allowed by the city,
together with admission fees and exemption from jury and military duty,
were remuneration enough for their labors. To be first, nearest, and most
conspicuous at fires was their greatest ambition, and the use of hose in any
long length, which, of course, deprived them of this qualification, was stoutly
opposed ; and should one of the number, who, more far-sighted than his
colleagues, express his desire for the use of this article, it was the worth of
his membership and popularity. The citizens' want of interest in the matter
and respect for the members and their opinions on fire matters rendered it
impossible for the city government to undertake the changes which had to
take place. For the time being they therefore deferred it until a more favor-
able moment. The mayor, in the mean time, was busily preparing for the
turn of affairs by entering into correspondence with the leading members of
the fire departments of New York and Philadelphia, whose systems of protec-
tion were understood to be in a high, state of perfection.
Some of the citizens complained that the firewards did not exercise their
authority, despotic for the -emergency, with the same energy as their prede-
cessors. The wards asserted that the citizens no longer aided them in their
duties by becoming members of the fire companies ; and that while the classes
of population disposed to be inactive or to depreciate at fires increased, those
who were willing to assist were much lessened. All acknowledged that fires
were more destructive than formerly ; but this was attributed, not to any
defect in the system, but to the want of cooperation among the citizens. The
remedies proposed and urged were, to revive the ancient volunteer fire com-
panies, to enlarge the supply of buckets, and vest greater authority in fire-
142 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
wards. The proposal of a fire department that should exclude instead of
compel the assistance of citizens was received with indignation. " Do you
think, sir," said one of the captains of the engines, " that the citizens of
Boston will ever submit to be prohibited from assisting a fellow- townsman in
distress ? Such sort of laws may be obeyed in despotic countries or in cities
where the inhabitants do not feel for one another ; but this is not the case, nor
ever will be, in Boston." When the advantage of the hose system was
suggested, it was answered, that it was practicable in Philadelphia, from the
abundance and easy command of water, but Boston possessed no such facili-
ties. When it was stated in reply that in New York the want of a sufficient
head of water was supplied by stationing engines at intervals between the
water and the fire, instead of forming' \'me< of citizens to pass the water from
the well to the engines, as was practised in this city, which, by playing into
each other successively, enabled the nearest to throw a continuous stream
upon the fire, the answer of one of the captains was characteristic of the
state of the existing prejudice on the subject : " Set engine-men at a distance
from the fire ! It will never be submitted to. The desire is always to be in
the hottest of the battle. The nearer the fire, the higher the post of , honor.
The struggle is who should get to it first, and who keep the nearest. It would
be more difficult to keep a Boston engine back, in order to play into its neigh-
bor, than it would be to put out the fire." Man}' thoughtful and intelligent
citizens had doubts also concerning the efficiency of the hose system, ajid the
City Council concluded, after much deliberation, that it was most prudent to
postpone for a time attempts to introduce improvements obnoxious to so
many prejudices.
The City Council changed the amount of the pi'emiums, on April 14, giving
$15 to the first and $10 to the second engine arriving at a fire, all the rest to
receive $8, with the exception of Cataract No. 14, which received $12, it hav-
ing the largest company^. But this was far from satisfactory to the majority
of engine-men, and in June, the members, headed by Mr. Asa Lewis, petitioned
the city to allow an increase in their compensation to $50 to each engine and
ladder company, and $77 to Engine 14; unless this was granted, tliey would
abandon their engines within ninety days after due notice was given. This
request was renewed four times. A committee was formed in September, who
interviewed two members from each of the engine companies, which resulted in
a report to the effect that there should be forty members to Engine 14, and
twentj'-six to each of the others, making a total of four hundred and thirty ;
but there were only three hundred and seventy-one men attached to the de-
partment, and many of them were anxious to leave, the reason for this lack
of interest being the reduction of military duty, and of the fine for non-per-
formance of it, which rendered the military service less burdensome ; the
increase of the labor of engine-men by the large extent of the city, making the
number of alarms more frequent, and the distance to which the engines had to
be dragged much longer (the military had greatly improved its condition,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 143
which made men take some pride in that service) ; the practice of the engine-
men for supping together once or twice a year, which, with other expenses
incident to the service, made the amount of the wliole expenses witliin the
year equal and sometimes more than in the military. The exemption of jury
duty was not considered by many as a privilege, as they were paid for this
service. It was therefore considered expedient to offer them some remunera-
tion, although there was no reason why the companies could not be filled, even
should no allowance be made. The Council then voted that each company be
paid $25 per year, except Cataract 14, being a large company, which was
allowed $40. They were also to receive as premium $15 for the first engine
at a fire, and $10 for the second, this order to take effect on January follow-
ing, provided the clerk of the company file with the city clerk on the mouth of
January next preceding a list of twenty members, and the rules and regula-
tions governing the company, for the approval of the mayor. But this com-
munication did not suit the members, although the firewards voted that the
exemption from military duty and the compensation allowed by the city was
sufficient.
The season of the year, and that which was approaching, were those in
which any general derangement of the engine companies would occasion
great alarm among the citizens. The members of these companies had
been long in the service, and great confidence was attached to their experi-
ence. In the opinion of many citizens, the companies were composed of a
class of citizens whose claims it was unsafe to deny, and in whatever spirit
'demanded, they ought to be conceded. On being asked if they would not be
satisfied with less than $50 each, the reply of one of the foremen was : " No ;
we are fixed on that point. Forty-nine dollars and ninety-nine cents will not
do ! " After this evidence of feeling and opinion, a majority of the committee
chosen to investigate the matter came to the conclusion that any grant made
under such circumstances would be considered as an "acknowledgement of
the dependence of the city upon the individuals who then composed the com-
panies, be attributed to fear, and be only temporarily and a source of future
embarrassment ; that the permanent safety of a city should never be allowed
to be regarded as dependent on the capricious estimate of their own impor-
tance by any set of men : but that general confidence should be permitted to
rest on no other basis than the conviction that there exists always among the
mass of its citizens talents and will adequate to self-protection."
The committee, therefore, on November 24, made a report, which was
accepted by the City Council, that it was not expedient to grant the prayer of
the petitioners, the present exemptions and remunerations being a sufficient
compensation. On December 1, the mayor notified the board that at 1
o'clock that day all the captains of the engine companies resigned their care
of the engines, as they did not accept the city ordinance. The engines were
at once placed under the care of the following aldermen : Nos. 8 and 12,
Baxter ; No. 5 and Ladder 1, Odiorne ; Nos. 9 and 11, Child ; Nos. 1 and 4,
144 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Dorr; Nos. 13 and 16, Benjamin; Nos. 10 and 3, Patterson; Nos. 2 and 15,
Eddy; Nos. 14 and 7, Harper. An able and active body of citizens immedi-
ately volunteered their service to man the apparatus until new companies could
be formed and given tlie keys. On the evening of the same day the mayor
communicated to the City Council tiiat the fire department was in its usual
state of efficiency. Some of the members remained, and notice was given by
the Council that they were ready to receive applications for engine-men until
Thursday, 4th inst., the late ordinance to be considered a basis of such mem-
bership. On December 4, Engine 1, under Samuel Jones, was the first
company to be formed. Mr. B. F. Adams obtaining most of the old mem-
bers to take hold was given the thanks of the board, but told they would
not be accepted, as the other company was already appointed. Before the
end of the month each engine had its full equipment of a regular organized
company.
Before this trouble came a petition was received, on April 17, from the
inhabitants of Fort Hill, signed by Israel Manson and otliers, for an engine
and bell to be placed in that section of the city also from inhabitants of South
Boston, signed by Mr. Noah Brooks and others. May 29, for an engine, both of
which were purchased from Mr. Hunneman. The one at Fort Hill was placed
in a house on Purchase street, and called Torrent 16 ; the other was stationed
in the school-house at South Boston, and called 17, with Daniel Adams in
charge of the former, and Alpheus Stetson of the latter. William Richards
succeeded Captain Nottfige of Engine 2 ; John Foster, Captain Sargent,
Engine 1 ; and Seth Copeland, Captain White, Engine 7.
On April 10, fifteen men were added to the number of Engine 15, and
twelve additional staffs were procured for the firewards. The following changes
occurred in this board : Ward 1, Benjamin Dodd and Isaac Peirce, vice Stone
and Ballard ; Ward 4, William Howe, vice Davis ; Ward 5, John Allan and
John Hall, vice Otis and Whitney ; Ward 8, Bryant P. Tilden, vice Magee ;
Ward 12, Cyrus Alger, vice Brooks.
The fires for the year were : January 1, Joshua Holden's store, 126 Orange
street. February, house in Purchase street. May 9, building, rear 47 Corn-
hill. July 20, Mr. Barney's house. Garden-court street. August 27, build-
ing, Marshall street. September 11, large fire in Purchase street, in a building
occupied by Charles Tilestou and others ; 24th, Mrs. Myers' house, 50 Marl-
borough street, and John Green's dwelling. Purchase street. October 11,
building owned by William Doll, and occupied by James Caswell, 10 Orange
street; 18th, Doctor Wai'e's residence, 20 Hanover street; 24th, Mr. Byrnes'
restaurant on Bedford street, building owned by Wentworth ; 28th, building
head of North Bennett street. November 24, Louis Oliver's house. Decem-
ber 2, First Baptist Church, Back street. 14th, Spear's buildiug, occupied by
John Baker.
The greatest conflagration that occurred since the rope-walk fire broke
out on Api-il 7, 1824, when nearly the whole of the square between Doane,
IJISTOEY OF BOSTON FIRE BEPARTMENT. 145
Broad, Batterymarcli, and Kilby streets was laid in ashes. The number of
buildings burnt were, five in State street, six in Doane street, six in Kilby
street, nineteen (every building) in Central street, four in Broad street, and
thirteen iu Liberty square. Many of these structures were stores, built of
brick and stone, and were considered fire-proof.
This was fol'owed three days later by the burning of the type foundry
in Salem street, the loss being $CO,OUO. But the members of the department
were again called to another most terrible holocaust on July 7, for an account
of whicli we reprint the article written for the " Transcript," by the late N.
J. Bowditch, under the nom de plume of " Gleaner," during 1853, and re-
printed in Vol. 5 of Record Commissioners' Report : —
Mr. Editor, — Oa Werlnes:la.y, Jul}^ 7, 1824, just before two o'clock, the bells of
Boston rang an alarm of fire, and instantly a dense mass of black smoke was seen to
overhang tiie entire city. I have always been an amateur at fires. If the calamity must
happen, I hke to be present, to behold what sometimes proves a most magnificent spectacle.
I was then a young man, — in my teens, — and hastened from 'Change to the corner of Park
street; 1 saw at once that a most furious and destructive conflagration had commenced.
The wind was blowing a huricane from the nortliwest. Wlien I readied the bottom of
the Beacon-street mall, a stream of fire was pouring through the passageway, west of iVIr.
Bryant's house, from carpenter shops and other combustible premises on Charles and
Chestnut streets.
The flame was of the full width of the passageway, and it was curling around into
the front windows of Mr. B.'s house, which was then newly finished and rea ly for occu-
pancy. The outbuilding and fences of all that range of dwelling houses were then of wood,
s.) that the fire was also making its fearful approaches in the rear. I have never seen,
before or since, any similar occasion of a more appalling character. The hasty removal of
household furniture, much of it being thrown from the windows, which were broken out
for the purpose ; the panic of the occupants, as they and their children were obliged to fly,
some at a notice of a few minutes ; the crackling of the flames, the intense heat, the
falling of the walls of one dwelling house after another, as the fire proceeded along the
street; the shouts of the firemen; the mass of spectators filling the bottom of the Com-
mon and the rising ground in its centre; the jets of flame often springing over a space of
several feet, the burning fragments borne aloft over our heads to remote parts of the city ;
the magnitude of the danger which led to the covering, with vret blankets, of houses, even
as distant as Mr. Otis' and Mr. Sear's, — formed together an aggregate of sights and
sounds which can never be forgotten.
As those houses which at first were not thought in great danger one after another
took fire, and were consumed, owners who originally decided not to have their furniture
disturbed were at last obliged to remove it so hastily that much was ruined, and much
more was necessarily left behind. In some instances old family portraits and inherited
articles of furniture, rendered invaluable by the association of a lifetime, were thus reluc-
tantly surrendered. On the other hand, a tin-kitchen was saved, and its viands cooking
for dinner were protected from the danger of being overdone.
Extensive removals were made from several houses, which were eventually saved, as
in the case of Mr. William Appleton's and others. The Common presented a curious
medley of miscellaneous articles ; the shabbiest household utensils side by side with ele-
gant drawing-room carpets and ornaments. Bottles of wine which had not seen the light
for twenty years were summarily decapitated, without any ceremonious drawing of corks,
and the Juno or Elipse vintage was probably never quaffed with greater relish than when
146 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
it refreshed the parched throats of the exhausted firemen ; other amateurs, without having
their apology, imitated their example, and the scene assumed rather a bacchanalian char-
acter. One gentleman, desirous of withholding further fuel from this conflagration, locked
up his wine cellar, and left its contents to be at least harmlessly consumed.
Seven dwelling-houses on Beacon street, east of the passageway, were burnt, beside
the entire range of buildings b?tween the passageway and Charter street. The fire was at
last successfully checked at the house of the late Mr. Eckley. I suppose that it always
happens that in a large fire somebody's policy had just expired. This was, I believe, the
case with the late Mr. Henry G. Rice. To many besides him that was a very sad and dis-
couraging day. Mr. Bryant had the advantage over his neighbors of not being incom-
moded by any furniture or family, as he had not yet taken possession. It is satisfactory
to reflect that all the pecuniary loss then sustained has, undoubtedly, been much more
than made good by the greatly enhanced value of real estate in that vicinity. And,
independently of all the direct and perpetual advantages, of the most inestimable character,
derived by our citizens from the Boston Common, it should never be forgotten that it
was solely owing to the existence of this open space on this occasion that tiie entire
southern portion of our city was not destroyed. The range of trees at the foot of Beacon-
street Mall rendered a truly important service. Suffering the flames of martyrdom, they
died at their post of duty.
A burning cinder lodged in my eye, causing a violent inflammation, and bringing to
an abrupt close my me litations on this striking spectacle, and a like inflammation of the
same organ now brings to a like abrupt close the speculation of
GLEANER.
The closing lines of this article may be classed among the involuntary
prophecies, for this proved to be the real close of these amusing and in-
structive series of articles. The other fires' for the year were : January 23,
house corner of Clark and Ship streets. February 6, Mr. Ames' sail loft,
Tileston's wharf. March 28, Thomas Cams' glass factory. South Boston.
April 7, house of Amos Lincoln, Middle street ; 8tb, Mr. Deckermary's
building; 13th, house on Front street. May 31, Mr. Richardson's house.
Friend street, John Dodd's dwelling. Ship street. June 20, building on Haw-
ley street. July 7, house on Chestnut street. September 20, Mr. Hunting-
ton's building on Pond street. October 14, Oliver Chandler's blacksmith
shop on Wilkinson & Pratt's wharf; 26th, house rear of 41 Back street.
November 5, Mr. Foster's .store, Purchase street. December 2, Baptist
meeting house on Back street.
The changes in the board of firewards were: Ward 1. John P. Orcutt
and Elijah Trask, vice Coomey and Look ; Ward 2, Oliver ( handler and
Thomas Reed, vice Truman and Dodd ; Ward 3, Benjamin Smith, vice Minott ;
AYard 4, Reuben Reed and Phinehas Mitchell, vice Feitch and Howe; Ward
5, Joseph D. Annable, vice Hull ; Ward 10, William H. Prentis, vice Rich-
ardson ; Ward 12, Artimus Simonds, vice Alger. At their meeting on July
23,' they voted to replace Engine 10 with a new machine ; an order was also
sent into the Council asking them to remedy the evil of a great scarcity
of fire-buckets, by having the citizens furnish them when needed, and help
Ihe wards at fire. On the same date the custom of marking hose with the
number of the engine to which it belonged was established.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 147
CHAPTER 11.
1825-1826.
ON January 1, 1825, the city ordinance required in its general rules and
regulations of the department, that the companies should meet in the
month of January ensuing to elect a captain, clerk, and two or more stewards,
and make returns of the names of the members to the city clerk ; the fine
for absence from this meeting was $1 or not less than 50 cents; the captain
to preside, in whose absence the company was to choose a temporary fore-
man, and was to meet once during the months of April, May, June, July,
August, September, and October to look after the apparatus. On an alarm
of fire, each member was to repair to tlie scene and assist, and not depart
unless excused by the captain, on penalty of $1 or not less than 25
cents. The duties of the steward were to keep the house and apparatus
in order, on penalty of $1. Not more than $5 were to be asked for admis-
sion fee.
The returns of the officers were : No. 1, Capt. John Gair ; William Dilla-
way, clerk. No. 2, Capt. Levi Whltcomb ; William Bellamy, clerk. Engine
3, Capt. Horace Fox; W. D. Bell, clerk. No. 4, Capt. Abraham Strong,
who was succeeded by Rufus Eaton ; Joseph A. Carney, clerk ; 23 men. No.
5. Capt. B. D. Baldwin ; William Parker, clerk ; 26 men. Engine 6, Capt.
Jabez Walcott ; Augustus Reed, clerk ; 26 men. No. 7, Capt. James Peirce ;
John Hills, clerk ; 30 men. No. 8, Capt. Stephen Thayer ; Isaac Spear, clerk ;
20 men. No. 9, Capt. John M. Salmon ; Philman Stacey, clerk ; 25 men. No.
10, Capt. Joseph Veazie ; James Shephard, clerk; 26 men. No. 11, Capt.
Thomas Bagnell ; Nathan Glover, clerk; 25 men. No. 12, Capt. Henry
Adams; J. W. Lawrence, clerk ; 24 men. No.' 13, Capt. Nathaniel Har-
vard ; Samuel H. Reinick, succeeded by Nathaniel Cutter, clerk ; 28 men.
No. 14, Capt. Jerre Bird; A. H. Jennings, succeeded by William Glover,
clerk; 42 men. No. 15, Capt. Joseph Ridler; J. R. Austin, clerk; 32 men.
No. 16, Capt. David Adams 5 Hawdcs Lincoln, Jr., clerk; 27 men. No. 17,
Capt. Alpheus Stetson; E. French, clerk; 26 men. Ladder 1, Capt. Silas
Stuart ; Warren Lothrop, clerk ; 26 men.
On March 31, all the premiums belonging to the old companies were
paid them. A new house was ordered to be built for Engine 15 on the
25th, on the site of the old one on Mr. Nathan Webb's land. A petition was
received by the mayor from G. W. Otis and others, praying that they may
have the aid of the city in their efforts as a fire company. The Merchants'
Insurance Company also asked that the city and other insurance companies
148 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
procure buckets and bags for the fire company, on condition that the city
malie two or more reservoh's of salt water of proper size at such places as
shall be judged expedient in or near India street.
On March 11, 1825, Engine-house 11 was removed from Mr. Tileston's
land on High street to the city land, situated at the south-east end of Sum-
mer street, and eight feet added to the length, and a partition built to divide
the engine quarters from the meeting-room. Two new engines were ordered
on the 14th from Philadelphia, Penn., one of the most approved pattern and
greatest power, and a Hydraulion (a small engine with one chamber, used for
forcing water through hose, as a supi)ly to the engine) , together with one
thousand feet of copper-riveted leather hose ; and on June 7, another power-
ful engine was ordered from New York, all of which were made in the most
perfect manner, being different in style of construction from those used in
Boston, which gave our mechanics an opportunity to compare, and if possible
to improve, the construction of our engines. But these measures did not pass
animadversion ; the press took up the cry and asked " whether the mechanics
of Boston were inferior in skill to those in Philadelphia and New York, and
why the money of the city was expended in the patronage of tlie mechanics
of other cities, rather than of its own?" But on an investigation by the
mechanics themselves on the i)rinciples and effects of this policy, they were
convinced of its fairness. The engine from Philadelpliia arrived first, in
December, and was called the Philadelphia No. 18, and was temporarily
placed in a barn on Beacon street, which stood near where the north-west
corner of the Tremont House noAv stands. Sixty men were autliorized to
take care of this engine, although the first fire at which it worked, Collamore's
crockery-ware store, corner of Washington and Franklin streets, December
29, 1825, it was under the charge of Firewards George Darracott and
Thomas C. Amory, assisted by the citizens. The first organized company
was called the Associated Fire Engine and Hydraulion Company, and wa's
under the command of William Barnicoat, foreman ; Thomas C. Amory,
second foreman, Almonen Holmes, third foreman, and Norman Sever, clerk.
A site was selected for the erection of a house for its accommodation on
Pemberton Hill, corner of Common street (now 9 Tremont row), but the
owner asked too much money for it ; later, however, it was obtained for
nothing (for particulars see " Boston Courier," November 9, 1825), and Dr.
Shurtleff, the owner of the adjoining property, was induced to sell his land
for' $3,000. Soon after the engine-house was erected at a cost of $2,300.
This building was of brick, with granite front, on the model of the Choragic
Monument at Athens. It had a cellar for cleaning hose and a room in the
upper story for meeting purposes. Land was also bought on Eliot street
on November 7 from E. Marsh for $1.19 per foot, on which was built an
engine and watch house combined.
On the evenmg of Fast Day, April 7, 1825, a destructive fire broke out in
a cooper-shop in Doane street, caused by cooking a clam-chowder, the flames
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 149
quickly spread to some old wooden buildings in the rear, occupied by very
poor families, and was communicat2d at once to the surrounding stores, from
estate street, on the one side, and from Broad street to Kilby and Liberty
streets on the other. The scene, on this occasion, was one of extreme embar-
rassment and confusion. The lanes formed by the wards with great diflieulty
were soon broken or deserted, and great depredations were committed on
property, brought forth in the hurry and excitement and laid in the streets
and left unprotected. Water was pi'ocured with difficulty, the engines being
dragged one thousand feet to the dock and tilled, alter which they were drawn
to the scene of the fire, and before ai'riving, half the water would be spilled,
so that a large number of buildings were blazing at one time, rendering it
impossible to check its progress, as the exertions of the citizens were first
directed to the rescue of property. About fifty stores, many of which were
filled with a recent importation of dry goods, were destroyed, at a loss of
$1,000,000, within a few hours. Most of the property was insured at a
low premium, Avhereby the underwriters suffered severely. They soon entered
into a combination, however, and eventually recovered their loss from the
public.
The next and last fire of importance we have to record under the old
sj^stem occurred in Court street, oa November 10, in which ten stores and a
large number of lawyers' offices were destroyed. After the Kilby-street fire,
tlie whole City Council met at the scene to consider the widening and laying
out new streets, and went over the ground between Kilby, Broad, State,
Central, and Doane streets.
These calamities made a deep impression upon the citizens. The want of
water, and the means to bring a continuous stream of it on the flames, were
apparent, and it became evident that the change in the habits and sympathies
of the population, and the recent and increasing infusion of foreigners, ren-
dered a change in the organization of a system of defence against fire and a
more efficient police essential. No better opportunity could be offered the^
mayor for the introduction of an independBut fire department, and, under the
sanction of a committee of the City Council, consisting of the mayor, Aldermen
Baxter, Odiorue, and Patterson, with Messrs. Goddard, S. K. Williams,
Frothingham, Haskell, and William Wright, of the Common Council, made, in
April, a report, stating the cause of the existing deficiency in the system of
defence, and the diversity of. opinion concerning the remedies, each of which
was analyzed and explained. The report represented as being altogether
mistaken, that it would be encouraging false hopes and a false system if the
committee did not declare their opinion concerning its inadequacy to protection,
and did not express themselves decidedly in favor of introducing a supply of
water to the engines through the means, of hose, instead of by lanes formed
by bj^standers. The report then submitted eight resolutions for the adoption
of the Cit}' Council, to the following effect : It was expedient that a new
organization of the fire department of the city should be adopted, on the prin-
150 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
ciple of distinct and individual responsibility, and for this purpose a com-
mittee be appointed, in both branches of the City Council, for the purpose of
arranging the details of such an organization, and that they report to the City
Council as soon as possible. This was the eighth resolve ; the four first had
for their object to satisfy their feUow-citizens, by actual experiment, of the
impracticability of reviving the ancient system of fire companies. To test the
possibility of this resort, the resolutions proposed an invitation to house-
holders and other citizens to form themselves into societies for their mutual
protection against fire, and a system of organizing such societies under the
sanction of tlie mayor and aldermen, and prescribed the number of buckets,
fire-bags, and other instruments usual and proper for the service which each
company should provide, and the authority which the members of such com-
panie'fe should exercise at fii*es, with an assurance that the City Council would
apply to the State Legislature to invest them with all requisite powers.
This scheme, although carefully devised, when proposed to the citizens
proved an absolute failure ; for although some associations were formed, the
attempt evidenced the utter hopelessness of any such reliance. The three
remaining resolutions proposed the construction of four reservoirs of fifty
thousand gallons' capacity, to be built of brick laid in Roman cement, the
locations to be Liberty square. Union street, and North and South Market
streets, and the purchase of the engines from New York and Philadelphia, as
stated above.
The City Council adopted all the suggestions of the report, and passed
the second resolution. It recommended and appointed the mayor, Aldermen
Blake and Welsh, and Messrs. S. K. Williams, Barry, Boies, and Wales a
committee on tlie eighth resolution, to arrange and report tlie details of a new
organization of the fire department. This committee reported on Ma}' 12, as
follows : —
Tliat an organization of a fire department in this city is desirable, predicated in a
systematic individual responsibility, and subordinate in all its parts. That tlae system
a lopt»J and for many years practised in the city of New York is of that character, and
seems to approximate in point of things to the most perfect general arrangements of any
system which has come to the knowledge of your committee. That it is by practical
experienced men deemed the best that can be devised, is satisfactorily indicated by the
accompanying letter from Thos. Franklin, Esq., for more than twenty years chief of the
department of that city ; although the committee would not recommend all the details of
that department, yet the fundamental principles are sound. Resolved that it is expedient
that a fire department be established in this city consisting of one Chief Engineer and as
many other engineers, firewardens, engine-men, hosemen, and hook and ladder men as may
from time to time be deemed necessary and as may be daily chosen and appointed by the
City Council. Resolved that the mayor and aldermen be and they are hereby requested
to apply to the Legislature that the officers so chosen and appointed may have all such
powers and authority and enjoy all such privileges as officers of the same description now
possess and enjoy under the present laws of the Commonwealth, and also that other powers
and privileges may be granted to them as to their wisdom may seem expedient.
HISTOHY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 151
IMr. Franklin, of the New York fire department, in his letter to the
mayor, recommended " that a suitable person be appointed to visit and exam-
ine our fire department, and see the operation thereof. I am persuaded it will
be more effectual than any written communication." Whereupon the City
Council commissioned Fire ward George Darricott to visit New York and Phil-
adelphia, and thoroughly investigate the organization of their tire departments,
and to examine into the capacities and capabilities of the apparatus. Mr.
Darricott's visit was most satisfactory, he being offered every opportunity by
the authorities of both cities to examine and study the entire working of the
systems, with which he was highly satisfied, and recommended in a letter lo
the mayor on the 1st of June, — which was published for the information of
the citizens, — that " such is the advantage of the system in use in those cities
that it could not too early be pressed upon the attention of the city authorities
in Boston," adding that " although the firemen of Boston possessed as much
intrepidity as any men, and risked readily both their property and persons, yet
they have not been accustomed to regard favorably the hose system, and sel-
dom make use of hose except when they cannot play from the pipe. The
reverse of this is the case in New York. It there frequently happens, when
a fire originates in narrow passageways, where engines cannot operate to
advantage, that they are placed in the centre of one of their large squares,
entirely out of view of the fire, and the hose is led through stores and houses
in the vicinity. This, with the efficient organization of the various compo-
nent parts of the department, and the plaj'iug of the luJiole under the supreme
command of one, is what, in my opinion, after a minute and careful inspec-
tion of the whole system, gives the firemen of New York such a decided
superiority over those of any other place. To this conclusion my mind has
been irresistibly led. I have always felt a degree of pride in the character
of our Boston firemen, and never could concede the point that fires were not
better managed here than elsewhere. But recent events have caused doubts
in my mind. These doubts are now confirmed. The fault lies not in the
men, but in the system."
This was, of course, after the reorganization of the city government in
May, 1825, when a joint committee, consisting of the mayor, Aldermen Blake,
Marshall, and Bryant, and Messrs. Oliver, Parker, Rice, Dyer, Fisher, Wells,
and Elliot, of the Common Council, were appointed on the fire department. On
their report two votes were -passed, — one, that a new organization of it was
necessary ; the other authorizing the mayor and aldermen to apply to the Legis-
lature of the State to invest the officers of the proposed fire department, when
elected, with such power and authority as miglit be requisite, which was im-
mediately attended to. But there was more abundant reason to anticipate
that some of the members of that body from Boston were enemies to the
bill, and would use their influence to have it thrown out without giving the
citizens an opportunity to express their sentiments. The fear of such an
action caused Mayor Quincy to have the following circular printed and dis-
tributed to each member of the Legislature : —
152 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
TO THE MEMBERS OF THE BOSTON SEAT IN THE LEGISLATURE OF
MASSACHUSETTS.
Boston, 12th June, 1825.
Gentlemen, — Understanding that doubts are entertained concerning tlie principle of
the bill, relative to a fire department, and that too by members of the Boston seat, I deem it
my duty not to permit that bill to fail, without distinctly explaining the views of the City
Council upon the subject. If the city is again made subject to destruction by the inapplica-
bility of our present system to the existing state of population, I am desirous that the City
Council shall escape the responsibility of such misfortune.
The principal object of the bill is to vest in the City Council the 2^ower of constituting
an efficient fire department^ and, for this purpose, that they should have the appointment
of the officers of that department and the distribution of their duties. The power to ap-
point and to prescribe the duties is the simple object. If it fail, there can be no organiza-
tion of an efficient fire department, and the consequences I need not portray.
The present system is, from the nature of things, inapplicable to the existing state of
population, and it cannot be made applicable.
At present, thirty- six members comprise a board of firewards, and as many more as
the City Council may determine. They are chosen in wards. Their power consists :
1st. In requiring, during fire, assistance in extinguishing it, or in removing goods or
guarding them, and in suppressing tumults or disorders. 2d. In directing and appointing
the station and operation of engines and enginemen, and of all persons in extinguishing
fires. This power is supported by the sanction of a penalty of ten dollars, on refusal or
neglect to obey their orders. This system had its origin in, q,nd from the nature of things
is solely applicable to comparatively small towns. The authority of firewards, although
caWei power, \s, in fuci, influence. Of what possible use toward an efficient extinguishment
of fire is the recover)'- of ten dollars the next day of a delinquent? Of the thousand
neglects and refusals which occur at every fire, how many are prosecuted? comparatively
speaking, not one !
The efficient authority of firewards, under our present system is mere influence.
And, as such, the highest are the most influential citizens, who could be persuaded to take
ths office ; it was the practice to make firewards, to the end that the individuals whom they
require 1 to assist, might be unwilling to refuse, either through shame or respect.
This was the real efficient power of the present system. But it is obvious that the
whole of this power is annihilated when a city is grown to such a size, as that not one in ten
of the firewards, let him be ever so respectable, can be known to the attendant multitude,
v.dien that multitude are, for the most part, assembled not from sympathy for the sufferers,
but from idle curiosity, and many from worse motives ; when from the practice of insur-
ing, and, belief prevalent that the loss will be borne by the insurance offices, indifference to
them becomes more prevalent, and disinclination to incur the labor and hazard of assisting
in extinguishing them more general ; and that too in those very classes of the community
where weight of character and property used formerly to constitute the strength of the
" influence " of firewards, by cooperating in their exertion.
Is it wonderful, in such a state of population and of feeling, that the scenes which
every man has witnessed of late at fires should occur? The surrounding multitude have
neither shame nor fear in refusing the fireward, and running away in masses as soon as he
is seen with his badge of office advancing toward them; or if a few yield a reluctant assent
temporarily, yet quitting the lines, or leaving the work assigned them, as soon as the fire-
ward's back is turned. The result of this state of things is as undeniable as it is
inevitable, and the consequences and duties resulting from it are equally plain and unques-
tionable. The system of depending upon the aid of the surrounding multitude must be
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 153
a!)andoned, and with it tlie system dependent upon mere influence or solicitation of sym-
patliies.
A system must be adopted, suited to a large population, which every day is growing
more mixed and less sympathizing with each other ; in other words, discipline, subordination,
and a well-marshalled arrangement, in which success is ma le to depend upon the organiza-
tion of the department and its own efficiency, and not upon the reluctant aid of those who
happen to be present. In other words, Boston, like New York and oth9r great cities, must
h-ive a fire department based upon the principle of being adequate to self-protection in
which the assistance of the mass of the citizens, so far from being solicited, is in fact pro-
hibited; a system not of influence, but of self-dependent power. If it be denied to the
present earnest application of tlie City Council, time needs no spirit of prophecy to foretell
tliat it will, at no great distance of time, be burnt into us.
This system as it exists in New York, is founded upon the use of suction and distribu-
ting hose, in filling their engines, instead of buckets ; by vdiich it is proved that every hun-
dred feet of hose is as effectual as tlie presence of sixtij ??ie?i with buclcets; whereby the
presence of the multitude is not rendered necessary. Tlie discipline of the department
applies only to those who belong to it. Great efficiency and energy is the result, and a
system of influence is abandoned, and one of efficiency is substituted.
To tlie introduction of this system, the City Council have already authorized a great
expense of engines and men, and must incur more. In order to make it effectual, disci-
pline must be introduced, subordination established, practice in the use of the hose apparatus
encouraged. For this purpose it is absolutely essential that the power possessed by this
bill should be invested in the City Council.
Thirty-six men coequal in power excludes the idea of organization or subordination.
How absurd is it to any efficiient responsibility, that the body of men which are intrusted with
the power of supplying the means and instruments should be denied the power of selecting
the agents and organizing the department which is to make use of them ! How fruitful in
disputes and controversies must be such an attempt. This system is not theory. It is now
in existence, practised and satisfactory. I submit extracts from a letter of the late
Chief Engineer of New York concerning the excellence of their system, above all I
subjoin a letter of George Darricott Esq. formerly a fireward of this city, who has been
sent on by the city authorities to examine the actual state of things in this respect in New
York.
I entreat the gentlemen of the Boston delegation so far to obtain the bill, if possible,
as to be subject to acceptance or refusal, by ballot of the citizens of Boston, at a general
meeting.
Considering this measure to be of the most vital importance to the prosperity and
safety of this city, I have taken the liberty to address this letter to you, gentlemen, and to
give it publicity, to the end that the views of the City Council might not be misapprehended,
and that should this measure fail, it shall not be attributed to any neglect, indifference, or
shrinking from official responsibility in them.
Very Respectfully, Yours,
JOSIAH QUINCY.
This circular had the desired effect, and on June 18, an act was passed
by the Legislature " establishing a fire department in the cit}' of Boston,"
which act depended for its final adoption on the votes of the citizens. On
June 23, the city clerk issued a warrant for a citizens' meeting at Faneuil
Hall, which was held on July 7, to consider and take the vote of yeas and
nays upon the act. It may well be supposed that this was a lively gathering.
154 HISTORY OF BOSTOI^ FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The inhabitants had been warmed to the matter by the patriotic harangues in
the ward-rooms, and the warning voice of the press, on tha usurpation of
powei's, which, it was asserted, could best be exercised by the body of the citi-
zens, and it was publicly declared that " it would not ba submitted to by
the fireproof brethren of the North End." The idea of efficiency in a hose
system, and of engines putting out fires by playing into one another, was
treated as ridiculous. The mayor, to do everything to strengthen the popu-
larity of the question, wrote and issued the following circular on the day
previous : —
To the Citizens of Boston : —
Perceiving the acceptance or rejection of the " act establishing a fire department" is a
subject of some discussion in the public prints, and being desirous wherever that question
is talcen, that whatever may be the event, its real nature and consequence may not be mis-
apprehended by my fellow citizens, I deem it my duty, in the relation I stand to the city,
to make a distinct development of the subject. Considering also its nature and the cir-
cumstance connected with it, I cannot deem this duty fulfilled as it ought to be unless I
annex my name to this elucidation.
It will not be necessary to use any words to prove that our present system of protec-
tion against fire, is for some reason or other not satisfactory to t!ie citizens of this metrop-
olis. It will only be necessary to rcjall, on this point, the recollections of our fellow
citizens to the darli discontent manifested at the conduct and result of both the last great
fires, — that in Beacon and that in Central streets. On both these occasions, the inadequacy
of our means of protection, or the insufficiency of their application was palpable, and the
discontent expressed, little short of universal.
Great difference of opinion, however was manifested, as to the cause of the confusion,
disorder and inefficiency exhibited on those occasions. Some lamented the M-ant of water.
Some the want of buckets. One set of men complained of the ward power in the firewarJs
to command. Another of the want of willingness of the multitude to obey. Anl all, of
the general want of fire clubs, and of those ancient associations for mutual protection on
occasion of fire.
In this state of sentiment and feeling, which notoriously existed, it was the duty of
the City Council to ascertain the real causes of the evils of which all complained, and apply
remedies suited and adequate to the nature of the case.
Now, it was impossible to reflect upon this acknowledged state of things, with the
seriousness which a sense of duty and responsibility imposed on the City Council without
coming to the conclusion that all these wants or deficiencies were, more or less, founded on
fact, and the resulting want of protection was not so much, if at all, attributed to the men,
wlio had the control of the present system, as to tliat system itself; in other words, tliat
the evils of which all complained, were attributable cliiefly, if not solely, to the inapplica-
bility of our j)resent system of protection against fire, to the present state and relation of
the population of our city. And as this population was every day increasing with great
rapidity, our present system was every day with like rapidity growing more inadequate to
effect that protection the citizens had a right to demand.
Every transient reflection on the acknowledged state of things will, I think, satisfy my
fellow citizens of the justice of the conclusion, and first of the complaint of the want of
water. A deficiency in this respect is unquestionable, and means are in train for remedying
it, under the auspices of the City Council. Yet the truth is, that we have as much water
now as we ever had in the city, and as we had in those times when the conduct of fires gave
great and just complaint in our city. Assuredly also, the deficiency of water in the vicinity
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE BEPARTMENT. 155
of Beacon street, or of Central street, could not be considered as the cause of the confu-
sion, disorder, and inefficiency which are complained of on both these occasions. On the
contrary, if our present system be sufficient, a manifest deficiency in the article of water
would be a reason for order and regularity, rather than a cause of disorder and confusion.
Our present system presupposes either a will in the surrounding multitudes at fires, to aid
in forming lanes to pass water to the engines, or a jjower in the firewards to compel them
to form such lanes.
Now, just in proportion as A^^ater in the vicinity of any fire is deficient, is the necessity
apparent that it should be brought from a distance ; and, of course, that the efficiency of
the will, or the power to make lanes, should be manifested. If our present system be,
therefore, in this respect, sufficient, the alacrity to form lanes and to preserve order in the
multitude present, and the facility with which the firewards are enabled to form the one
and preserve the other, will be increased rather than diminished, by the existence of so
great an exigency. How it was on both occasions can best be answered by the firewards
and the citizens present.
Again, are the evils of which we complain to be attributed to the want of buckets,
of fire clubs, or an}' of the ancient associations for mutual protection? What is the reason
of this? Why are we deficient in buckets? Why are the number of fire clubs greatly
diminished? Why those ancient associations abandoned or gone into disuse? There can
be but one answer. The state of things is changed in this respect. With the greatness of
population a different state of feeling and of modes of protection have grown up. For-
merl,y, one could not open the front door of the highest or the richest citizen without having
his eye greeted with at least two buckets, containing fire-bags and a bed key, all duly
labelled, indicating to which fire society he belonged. The same was true iu relation to
the house of almost every citizen, except those of the poorest class.
At this day how many doors can you open and behold the same sight? I answer,
within bound, not one in fifty. Why is this? If you ask the owner, and he answers truly,
nine times in ten it will be, ." I am insured; why should I keep fire-buckets? Why subject
myself to the rules and customs of fire chibs? Or why turn out to fire at all? I go to the
expense of protecting myself. I ask no protection of others, and I mean to incur no
voluntary expense, and much more, will not incur the risk of health and life in protecting
them."
However cold, selfish, or calculating this language may seen, it is in the practical
language of men in all great cities. In such cities, the influential classes of citizens, the
householders, and men of property of every description, grow more in the habit of pro-
tecting themselves, more unwilling to incur the risk and the labor which aiding at fires
makes necessary, and the number of those who are indifferent on such occasions, or who are
willing to make profit by the misfortune of others, is increasing. The consequence is that
in all cities, after they have obtained a certain amount of greatness, the system of depend-
ing upon the aid of all the citizens has been abandoned, and a system, self-dependent, and
which so far from requiring the aid of all the citizens, excludes that aid, ha3 been adopted.
The substantial question, therefore, presented to the citizens of Boston is this, —
having become a city with a great population, will you adopt a system conformable to
the state of things in which you exist? or, with a great population, will you adhere to a
system adapted only, and which can be efficient only in a city with comparatively a very
small population? Whatever prejudices may exist upon the subject, and whatever
interests or feeling may be affected by the avowal, it is my duty to state, as the result of
all the researclies made under the authority of the City Council, on the subject, that
the present system of firewards is not and can not he made an efficient system of protection
against fire, with a population such as at present exists in this city. The fault is not on
the men, but the system.
Thirty-six men are annually chosen, in wards, all equal in power; and in case of fire
156 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIBE DEPARTMENT.
any three have precisely the same power with every other three. I lay aside all questions
concerning the effect of choosing in wards, rather than by general ticket. I take it for
granted that the men, thus chosen, are the best thirty-six men that exist in the city for
tills purpose, and that they always will be the best. I ask, then, what are the efficient
powers of such firewards, in relation to commanding aid on those occasions, considered in
the light of substantial protection? The answer, and only answer that can be given, is,
that they can require the assistance of all persons present to aid in extinguishing fires.
But, suppose the persons required refuse or neglect to obey? What then? They are
liable to be prosecuted the next day for ten dollars. The penalty, indeed, is heavy ; but
what is it as it respects efficient protection?
Of the thousands which, at every great fire, either refuse or neglect to obey the
fireward, and shrink from him, or go away as soon as he approaches, liow many have
ever been prosecuted, and paid their $10? Comparatively speaking, not one. This
great authority of the firewards, on which so much reliance is placed, when looked to for
efficient protection, turns out to be nothing more than the good-will of the person present.
The firewards' orders, if the person ordered wills, he obeys ; if he does not so will, he
let it alone. And this is the whole matter; for, unless in case of flagrant insult or
outrage, he never hears any more of the business. Nor can there be any blame cast on
the fireward. Amidst darkness and confusion and hurry, how can he identify the indi-
vidual, much more arrest and keep him in custody?
The efficient authority of firewards turns out, then, to be, after all, mere influence ;
and the whole system is predicated upon its being influence, and nothing else. It is a
sufficient system in an early stage of society, and in a limited extent of population. But
when society advances, when a population becomes numerous, the weight of personal
character and influence is little felt; comparatively not at all. And the consequence is,
that a system of influence must be abandoned, and one of efficiency adopted.
Now, a system to be efficient must be self-dependent ; not relying upon whim,
caprice, or the accidental presence of well-disposed individuals, but possessing within itself,
and by the inherent force of its own organization, the capacity of affording the protection
required. By the aid of hose, of suction, and supply engines, such a system supersedes
the necessity of laws, and, by the power of machines, renders only a very small number
of persons sufficient for protection. This is the system of New York. The surrounding
multitude, instead of being solicited to aid, are prohibited from interfering. The engi-
neers, the firemen and hosemen, and hook and laddermen are competent to manage all
the machines. The efficiency of this system is not a matter of speculation.
The question, then, now presented to the citizens of Boston is a question between two
systems ; and, on this point, in order that there may be no mistake in this matter, and no
deception, I wish to be distinctly understood, that the existence and present relations and
powers of firewards are wholly incompatible with the system recomm-ended and in practice
in New York ; and that so long as these relations and powers subsist, this system can7iot be
introduced. For although firewards make a component part of the system in New Yorlc,
yet their relations and their powers are very different from those of firewards in this city.
One great business, for instance, of firewardens under our system is to make citizens
assist at fires; whereas, one great business of firewards in New York is to keep persons
at a distance from them.
I know that it is urged with great warmth and vehemence in the public prints, that
the object of the City Council is to wrest from tlie citizens the election of firewards. The
truth, however, is, that the object of the City Council is of a much higher and more conse-
quential character than the poor acquisition of any such elective power. It is an endeavor
to place the safety and protection of the city against fire, upon the basis of a self-depend-
ent, efficient system; one that does not claim for age, or manhood, or boyhood, as a duty,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 157
to turn out and give protection against fires, at the exposure of health, and often of life.
On the contrary, it takes the protection of the city upon itself. It asks of the citizens,
not immediately interested, only to keep away. It depends on its own discipline, practice,
force of machinery, and engines, and relies not at all on the reluctant aid of casual
bystanders.
This system is inevitable in a full-grown state of society. If our citizens do not
realize, or will not admit the necessity, of it now, the adoption is only postponed. Come it
will. The great teacher, calamity, which has already spoken once and twice, will speak
again and again, until its voice is heard. If, then, the effect of the bill is to vest in the
City Council the choice of thefirewards, it is because that the powers and relations of fire-
wards, in a system destined to give protection without calling in the aid of the multitude
present, and different from their powers and relations in a system like our present one,
based upon depending on the aid of that multitude altogether.
Thirty-six men, coequal in power, every three of whom have a right to command, are
wholly incompatible with a system which is of the nature of an organized force, having a
head and members subordinate to each other, and in which responsibility is precise, direct,
and individual. It will, therefore, be seen by my fellow-citizens, that the real question
to be decided by them, on the acceptance and rejection of the bill, relates to the two sys-
tems, — that which now exists, and that which is recommended.
So far as the question affects the elective franchise, it depends upon another ques-
tion; and that is, whether the city council, the constituted and responsible representative
of all the citizens, be, or be not, the proper body to be intrusted with the organization of
the fire department of the city?
Upon the general expediency of retaining the present system, which is founded on
the practicability of commanding the aid of the whole multitude present at fires, I ask my
fellow-citizens to consult not only recent, but also to reflect on the actual, relations of our
population. Is it not becoming every day less and less homogeneous? By emigration
and the constant infusion of foreigners, are not the sympathies among citizens, considered
merely as such, diminishing? Has not an increased disposition to take advantage of
fires as occasion for plunder been manifested of late years? Must it not be inevitable,
in every city with an increasing population? What right has this city to expect an ex-
emption from the common lot of humanity in great cities?
In making this elucidation I am sensible that I have exposed myself to the charge of
unsuitable obtrusiveness. But I am willing to submit to this, or to any other like censure,
rather than to have the conviction, which I should otherwise have felt, that I have failed in
my duty to a people to whom I owe so many obligations for the confidence they have
reposed in me. My great purpose will be answered, if I can draw the attention of my
fellow-citizens to the real nature of the question, and that, when decided, an unequivocal
expression of their opinion should be given by the number of their suffrages ; and that it
should not be left, as some questions have been of late, to the decision of a few individ-
uals in the vicinity of the iiall, or who had a particular interest in the subject.
The question deeply interests the fate of the whole city ; only let, then, the voice of the
whole city be heard.
Your fellow-citizen,
JOSIAH QUINCY.
4th July, 1825.
Hon. Daniel Davis was chosen moderator of the meeting, and the poll
was voted to be closed at half-past two o'clock in the afternoon. So exciting
was the struggle that two thousand five hundred and eleven votes were cast,
and so powerful was the opposition that the votes stood one thousand three
158 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
hundred and forty-seven for, and one thousand one hundred and sixty-four
against, being decided by only one hundred and eighty-three votes. Thus,
after an open and hard fight, the organization of our independent fire depart-
ment was accepted by the citizens of Boston. Means were now taken to
carry the project into effect, with the general cooperation of the citizens. A
committee of both branches of the City Council, consisting of the Mayor,
Aldermen Blake and Welsh, and Messrs. William, Barry, Boies, and Wiley,
of the Common Council, was chosen to prepare an ordinance in conformity
with the act of Legislature. But it was not until the end of December that
the details of this ordinance were settled.
The Committee on Reservoirs reported, on November 28, that the large
fire was caused principally on account of the scarcity of water, and therefore
recommended that twelve reservoirs be built, each to contain not less than two
hundred and fifty hogsheads of water, this number being all that could be
built before winter, yet three times that number in their opinion should be con-
structed. They were located on Liberty square ; Union street, near old State
House ; new State House ; Hanover street, near new church ; near Rev. Dr.
Ware's church, Hanover street ; Bowdoin square ; Old South church ; vicinity
of theatre in Federal street ; Broad street, near Boylston market ; Common
street, near St. Paul's church ; Summer street, and India street, — for the con-
struction of which $6,500 were appropriated on December 1. The supply of
water to feed these wells was mostly taken from the public buildings. The
City Council referred the subject of "the organization of a fire department,
upon the principle of distinct and individual responsibility," to the next City
Council, the period of a reorganization of the city government being now
approaching.
An ordinance for the regulation of chimneys and chimney-sweepers was
passed December 28, 1825, by which it was made unlawful for any person to
engage in the business of chimney- sweeping, unless licensed by the City
Council, or for any one to employ those who were not licensed. Any person
refusing to have their chimneys swept could be fined for each day they con-
tinued burning a fire. Two dollars' fine was the penalty for allowing their
chimneys to fire.
The changes among the officers of the department were : No. 6, Lazai'us
Bowker, vice Captain Walcott. No. 7, J. Colby, clerk, vice HUls. No. 10,
James Shephard, vice Captain Veazie ; and Thomas Furber, clerk, vice Shephard,
promoted. No. 12, Luther Felton, vice Captain Adams; and Peter B. Clark,
clerk, vice Samuels. No. 13, Samuel H. Remick, mce Captain Hammond. No.
14, Alexander H. Jennings, vice Captain Bird. No. 17, Charles Dudley, vice
Captain Stetson. In the board of firewards the changes were : Ward 1, Wil-
liam Collier, Horace H. Watson, and Henry S. Kent, vice Pratt, Orcutt, and
Trask. Ward 2, Aaron Wallis, vice Chandler. Ward 3, Thomas Tivell, vice
Holbrook. Ward 4, George Riley, vice Thomas Melville, who declined reelec-
tion. Ward 5, John Hall, David Thacher, and D. C. Greenleaf, vice Thaxter,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 159
Alien, and Annable. Ward 6, Samuel F. Coolidge and Daniel Brown, vice
Adams and Shepley. Ward 7, Asa Richardson vice Stephen Codman.
Ward 8, Thomas H. Perkins, Jr., and James Hamilton, vice B. P. Tilden and
Brigham. Ward 9, Nathaniel Richards, vice Harris. Ward 12, Brewster Rey-
nolds, vice Williams. As we have said, Thomas Melville declined serving for
a longer period, on which occasion the board, on April 27, passed the fol-
lowing vote : —
That the thanks of this board, for themselves and in behalf of their fellow-citizens, be
presented to Thomas Melville, Esq., for the zeal, intrepidity, and judgment with which he
has on all occasions discharged his duty as a fireward of this city for forty-six years in suc-
cession, and for twenty-five years as chairman of the board. We regret his voluntary
retirement, but he carries with him our best wishes that the remainder of his life may be as
happy and tranquil as his public services liave been useful and acceptable. Voted, that
the secretary cause the above vote to be published in such of the newspapers in this city as
he may deem proper.
Whereupon a committee was chosen to procure a handsome silver pitcher,
at a cost of $70, and present it to him. In acknowledging the receipt of
which he sent the following letter : —
Boston, June 22, 1825.
Gentlemen, — Your vote of the 27th April last, and the elegant tribute of respect
which accompanied it, by the hands of your committee, on the loth inst. , have laid
me under a debt of gratitude which, though I do not wish to be free from, I can never
adequately repay. Memory yet lingers, and always will fondly linger, on the many
happy intimacies I have formed, the many social hours I have passed, and the many
heartfelt satisfactions I have experienced in your society, and while I look back on our
intercourse with it, which has continued uninterrupted for nearly half a century, it is
to me a consoling reflection, that I have only complied with my duty in retiring from those
fatigues and labors which age would soon have rendered me incompetent, usefully and ac-
ceptably, to perform. Often as the rich libation shall be poured forth, or the invigorating
draught imbibed, from the vessel you have presented, will the spirit and motives which
induced the bestowment of it be remembered, and the many interesting ties which bind me
to its donors be renovated and strengthened ; not only so, but I trust it will be tenderly and
faithfully preserved by descendants, as a testimony of your generosity and their gratitude,
long after my silver cord of life shall be loosed and my life's pitcher broken at its fountain.
My ardent wishes are directed with solicitude for your prosperity ; may your labors long
prove successful, your intercourse pleasant, and your felicity be continually increasing;
and when time or circumstances shall dissolve your social union, may your valuable ser-
vices receive a rich reward in the approbation and blessings of a grateful community.
With great consideration and respect, I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant,
THOMAS MELVILLE.
To THE Board of Firewakds.
Fires for the year: January 11, North square, building owned by Mr.
Andrews. April 7, Doane building, Doane wharf ; 8th, building on Lincoln
wharf, near Ann street. May 21, schooner " Washington," lying at Forster's
south wharf ; 26tb, building in Charles street. July, building on Hobb's
wharf, near Sea street ; distil house, Rainsford's lane. August 5, barn of Mr.
160 HISTORY OF BOSTOM FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Rogers, Beacon street ; 16th, house of Joseph Nash, Fort hill; 25th, John
Bannister's carpet shop, Forster's wharf. September 19, house on Purchase
street; 25th, Mr. Goodwin's dwelling, corner of Ann and Fleet streets.
November 12, building, on Lynn street; house on Hanover street; 24th,
Thomas Whitman's residence, 76 Prince street. December 13, Captain
Glover's house on Purchase street, occupied by Mr. Bartholomew ; 15th,
Joshua Oakes' dwelling. Purchase street; 23d, building corner of Friend
and Portlaud streets ; 27th, milinery shop in Hanover street, opposite Han-
cock school ; stable of Mr. Morton, on Hawley street.
Immediately after the reorganization of the City Council for 1826 they
took measures to carry the preparatory steps for the settlement of the depart-
ment, and on January 19 Samuel Devens Harris was appointed chief
engineer. Mr. Harris was a man of keen judgment and prudence. He dis-
tinguished himself aS a cavalry officer in almost every battle on the Canadian
frontier in 1814, and was generally regarded as singularly qualified to
introduce order and subordination into the de[)artment. The state of his
health rendered him, at first, unwilling to accept the office, as it would subject
him to great exertion and exposure ; but he at length yielded to the solicita-
tions of the mayor and City Council. He requested the mayor, soon after
taking command, not to bring the subject of his salary before the City
Council, assigning as a reason for this request, that, having the charge of a
force consisting wholly of unpaid volunteers, he thought his usefulness would
be hampered by his acceptance of a salary. On the 23d the following
twenty gentlemen were appointed engineers : D. C. Bacon, George Dorricott,
G. Fairbanks, S. Wilkinson, J. Chandler, T. B. Curtis, A. H. Gibbs, Wil-
liam Tileston, 0. C. Greenleaf, T. H. Perkins, Jr., William Tucker, J. F.
Cooledge, Benjamin Darling, John Farrier, Jr., H. Fox, H. Fowle, Jr., J. D.
Emery, Flavel Mosely, Brewster Reynolds, and Al. Stetsoia. Messrs. Tucker
and Greenleaf declined, and were succeeded, on the 25th, by W. H. Prentice,
and Joel Prouty ; Benjamin T. Reed, vice S. F. Cooledge, on the 14th;
James Clark and Charles Wells, vice Farrier, Jr., and Moseley, declined,
February 9. On August 28 it was ordered that all communications to the
board must first pass the hands of tbe chief.
The changes in the board of firewards for the year before their disor-
ganization vs^ere : Ward 1, William Barnicoat and Henry Fox, -yice Collier
and Watson; Ward 2, Robert Bacon, to fill vacancy of last year; Ward 3,
Silas Stuart and Charles Mountford, vice Smith and Tivell ; Ward 4, Abel
Adams, vice Mitchell ; Ward 6, Gridley Bryant and Lazarus Bowker, vice
Cooledge and Brown; Ward 12, Stephen Child, Jr., vice Wheeler. They
reported at their meeting January 13, that there was a great scarcity of men
in the department. On Engines 3 and 8 all members resigned, with the
exception of seven ; No. 9 was disbanded and temporarily filled ; No. 10, old
and useless ; Nos. 11 and 12, all members resigned; No. 14, only fourteen
members remained, and on No. 17 only twelve. This report was sent to
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 161
*
the Maj^or, with the information that two vacancies existed in the board,
viz. : Thomas H. Perkins, Ward 8, and William Barnicoat, Ward 1. A com-
mittee was formed to consider the expediency of allowing Engine 14 to
employ a horse to help carry that engine to and from fires. This was
allowed a short time after, the engine being drawn by a cream-colored horse,
known as the " charger."
The last meeting of the wards was held at the residence of Av illiam Mer-
riams, on May 19, at which there were present twenty-two members, with
Daniel Messenger as chairman. A letter from Mayor Quincy, dated loth
inst., enclosing an order of the Board of Aldermen passed May 10, was
read, when it was voted " that the late secretary inform the mayor of the
receipt of this communication, and to assure him and the Board of Aldermen
of the satisfaction they feel in having their conduct as firewards approved by
the constituted authority of their fellow-citizens ; and the secretary is further
directed, in conformity to the request of the Board of Aldermen, to deliver to
Samuel D. Harris, Esq., Chief Engineer, all the records and property of the
city in their possession." The balance of funds in the treasury was seventy-
four dollars and fifty-six cents, which was used to defray the expense of the
evenino- and other demands due from them. The thanks of the members
were then presented to the chairman for the very acceptable manner in which
he presided during his relation to them in that capacity, after which ''the
chairman rose and made a dignified and suitable acknowledgment, and after
taking a parting glass the board formally dissolved and the members sepa-
rated ; " which transaction ended the time-honored institution that had to
give way to the demands of an increased population.
Fire companies in Wards 1 1 and 12 were appointed January 9 ; Wards 2, 4,
and 5, on 17th ; Ward 7 on the lyth ; Wards 1 and 3 on the 23d ; and Ward 6,
February 6. Five thousand dollars were added to the appropriation for the
department on January 17. The engine from New York arrived on January 5,
and was delivered to the care of Engine Company 7, and their old engine was
transferred to a new company located in a house on Sea street, and named
Boston No. 20. The Extinguisher Engine Company 7 was then changed to
New York No. 7, and on the 9th fifty men were added to the company,
and a stove and rack were placed in the engine-house. On the petition of
Mr. C. C. Nichols, on the 19th, award-room and engine-house was erected in
Ward 8, on a site of land on Franklin place, between the theatre and Josiah
Bellows' property.
On the 26th the new Engine 7, Ward 18, was badly injured by some
person, who drew the screws and nuts from the piston of the pump. Five hun-
dred dollars' reward was offered for the arrest of the parties committing the
act. This offer was also made for the detection of any person caught cutting
hose at a fire, an act which had been committed on Engine 11 in March;
but no arrests were made. On the 30th, application was received by the com-
mittee from several of the foremen, asking for an alteration of the regulations
162 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
relating to the premium as tlien established. They were informed that the
payment was more to the encouragement of the members and the efficiency of
the general system. On the same date Engine 6 was allowed six additional
men to its list of members, and two hundred pairs of fire-buckets were ordered,
at S4.40 per pair, which order was increased, on April 10, to three hundred
pairs.
The mayor and Aldermen Bellows and Oliver were appointed on Feb-
ruary 13 a committee on the fire department, for the year. It was ordered
by the Council, on the 20th, that all engine-men must be twenty-one years of
age, unless the consent of their parents, etc., be given ; and on the 27th En-
gine 15 was surrendered by the members. James Pierce, secretary of the
masters of the engines, sent the board a vote of the department commanders
on March 9, to the effect that " they did not consider the company of Engine
11 as a regular engine company, and would not associate with them as such."
A letter was also received fromCapt. William Tucker, a fireman, stating the
extreme disorganizing and disorderly conduct of Capt. Daniel Adams of En-
gine 16, while at a fire in Ann street on the 9th, he being at the fountain-head
of the engines in line, and ordered his engine to cease playing in any of the
engines forming the series. On being remonstrated with he behaved very
disorderly. Acting foreman A. W. Jennings, of Engine 14, did the same.
Adams was discharged, and Jennings suspended for a few days. It was re-
solved by the committee that the mayor address a letter to Pierce, and send a
copy of the letter of Mr. Tucker's, requesting him (Pierce) to call a meeting
of the engine foremen, and answer the following questions : —
1. Whether by the terms expressed in the said resolve, " that they will not coop-
erate Avith Engine 11, etc.," this Board are to understand that it is the intention of the
captains to refuse all cooperation with that company in case of fire?
2. Whether the course of proceeding stated in the letters of Mr. Tucker have or
not the countenance of the captains? And that the mayor request Mr. Pierce to send in
the names of those who refuse to cooperate with Engine 11.
Engines Co.'s 2, 10, and several others, declared they would not receive
or deliver water from Engine 11, being, as they asserted, a company of boys ;
but the committee informed them that the company was confirmed by the city
authorities, and, unless the statement was retracted, the companies would be
disbanded. Engine Co. 2 would not retract ; consequently, it was disban,ded,
and a new one at once organized. On the discharge of Captain Adams of
No. 16, the company issued a notice in the " Columbian Centinal," on March
22, stating that they would "still hold Daniel Adams their lawful captain,
notwithstanding he had been dismissed by the mayor and aldermen, and they
should obey him accordingly." This resolve, as a matter of course, led to
their immediate dismissal.
The Columbian, Eagle, and Vigilant Fire Societies offered themselves, on
March 27, to protect property, etc., and asked that they should be recognized
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 163
by the city. They were highly approved of by the authorities, and the
aldermen ordered that a common badge should be worn, that they may be
known to the engineers, and that they should pass any line, subject to the
orders of the chief and engineers. It was also resolved that any company of
citizens associated for the purpose, regularly organized, with established rules,
should file a list with the committee. But this would not exempt them from
servii^ as jurors and in the militia. The Suffolk Fire Society, on the 27th,
offered to take charge of any engine in the city where a company was wanted.
On this date the several fire societies who had volunteered their services to
take the engines when they were thrown up by the old companies were pub-
licly thanked by the City Council.
On account of a number of false alarms that had been sounded on the
bells at the North End, a new system was instituted by a committee
appointed for that purpose, who reported, on April 10, that the wardens of
the several churches would provide at their own expense a lock and key of
the church, the key to be kept at a store opposite the church ; the keeper
of which would unlock the door at half -past nine at night, and lock it again
in the morning. A tin sign was put on the church designating the place at
which the key was kept.
Engine Co. 2 was increased to forty members. Hose company No. 1 was
organized this month, with Nathan Ring, foreman ; S. Sabor and I. Turner,
assistants ; T. F. Pratt, clerk. They were located in a building in the rear
of 13 Court street. On the 24th the mayor was authorized to issue his
proclamation declaring that the fire department had been duly organized
agreeable to the permission of the act of Legislature and the ordinance of
the City Council, the same to go into effect on the 29th. Chief Harris
requested, on May 22, that the several reservoirs be filled with water ; and
on the first of the following month the Suffolk Fire Society was formed.
The changes in the officers during 1826 were : No. 1, Otis Munroe, vice
John Hooton, Jr., vice Captain Gair ; J. H. Bennett first, and S. AV". Hall
second foreman ; Amos G. T. Ruddock, vice Dillaway, clerk. No. 2, James
Bassett, vice Captain Whitcomb ; Charles Gaylor, vice Bellamy, clerk. No. 3,
Aza Swallow, vice Z. Sampson, vice Captain E. B. Green ; M. Dalton, vice
George Carpenter, clerk. No. 4, Levi Couant, vice William Harden, vice
Bennett, clerk. No. 5, Benjamin D. Baldwin, vice Captain Torrey. No. 6,
Jacob Tufts, vice Captain Bowker. No. 7, E. Battles, vice Captain Pierce,
A. Parker, vice J. Smith, vice Colby, clerk. No. 8, S. N. N. Thorp, vice
Captain. Thayer. No. 9, A. W. Blauchard, vice Francis Trask, "'uice S. W.
Stone, vice Captain Salmon, G. L. L. Ripper, vice Joseph Gibson, vice Stace}',
clerk. No. 10, William S. Baxter, vice Captain Shephard. No. 11, W. T.
Spear, vice Captain Bagnell ; B. Russell, vice Howland, clerk. No. 12,
James Barry, Jr., vice Captain Felton ; Galvin Taylor, vice Clark, clerk.
No. 14, Nathan Trumbull, vice Captain Jennings. No. 15, Henry Huxford,
wee John Foster, mce Captain Ridler; Leo Hillman, -ytce Mike Dalton, vice
164 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Austin, clerk. No. 16, Joseph Seaver, vice E. 0. Hawes, vice Captain
Adams ; T. Rand, vice Lincoln, Jr , clerk. No. 17, Richard Lock, vice Cap-
tain Dudley ; W. Haley, vice Clark, clerk. Associated fire engine and
hydraulic company, attached to Engine 18, called the Philadelphia, and
Hose Co. 18, William Barnicoat, captain ; A. Holmes, first assistant ; N.
Seaver, clerk, with sixty-tliree men. Associated fire engine and hydraulic
company attached to Hydraulion 19 ; T. C. Amory, captain ; C. N. Dennett,
first-assistant foreman, and John Peirce, clerk, thirty-five men. This and
No. 18 were one company.
Of the fire clubs and societies the following list is complete : Ward 1 ,
N. C. Belton, captain ; Charles Brintnell and Nathaniel Hunt, assistants ;
W. Knapp, clerk. Ward 2, B. Abrahams, captain ; D. Edes and George
Lowe, assistants ; John Carnes, clerk. Ward 3, George A. Sampson,
captain; S. P. Hayward and J. P. Dupee, assistants; B. F. Sj'lvester,
clerk. Ward 4, G. Riley, captain ; I. Atkins and Sol Wilds, assist-
ants ; Thomas Watman, clerk. AVard 5, George Lane, captain; J. Ham-
mond and W. C. Stimpson, assistants ; W. T. Waldo, clerk. Ward 6, J.
Lincoln, captain ; Thomas HaAaland and J. H. Belcher, assistants ; J. Hol-
man, clerk. Ward 7, D. Brigham, captain; J. W. Harris and William
Taylor, assistants ; J. F. Ha37wood, clerk. Ward 8, James Horton, captain ;
Ed. Hall and C. W. Thayer, assistants ; George Pemberton, clerk. Ward 9,
Paul Rice, captain; D. H. Dill away and L. Herman, assistants; George
Witkins, clerk. Ward 10, James Crain, captain ; John Rupp assistant ; Robert
T. Paine, clerk. Ward 11, John Howe, captain ; E. Watson and F. Moseley,
assistants; Otis Everett, clerk. Ward 12, Moses Williams, captain; B.
Reynolds and George Jackson, assistants; James Carey, clerk; — each of
which company had twenty- five men.
EISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 165
CHAPTER III.
1827-1831.
THE first report of the fire department from the hands of its chief was
furnished the City Council January 15, 1827. In it he recommends the
alteration of several engine-houses, and repairs of engines. This report was
ordered to be printed in a single sheet, and distributed to the city government
and members of the department. A committee was then appointed by the
aldermen to see what alterations were necessary in the ordinance establishing
the fire department ; also to see about the act of Legislature whereby a mem-
ber must produce a certificate from the mayor to show to the commanding
ofl3cers of the militia "on or before the first Tuesday of May in each year,"
as the members who were admitted subsequent to that time were obliged to
do both military and fire duty. The doubt as to whether the power of the
firewards regai'ding gunpowder was transferred to the engineers was at the
same time taken into consideration, and settled to their satisfaction by an act
passed March 2, 1827. Messrs. N. Viles and M. Weare were appointed en-
gineers on the 24th. On the 29th an additional story was added to Engine 9's
house, on Mason street. The same date the mayor and Aldermen Loring and
Savage were appointed a committee on the department.
A letter from the mayor was received by the Board of Aldermen, request-
ing that new engine-houses be erected where necessary, and to enlarge others,
as there were no facilities for properly attending to the apparatus or drying
the hose, while most of the companies had to hold their monthly meeting in
public houses, resulting in useless expense, and was otherwise objectionable.
The chief sent in a report to the effect that several of the engines were also in
need of repau's. '
The site of Engine-house 7, on School sti-eet, owned by the city, con-
tained only four hundred and forty-seven feet of ground area, and was there-
fore too small for so large an engine. On February 19 arrangements were
made by the city and Mr. Asa Richardson, owner of a piece of land on the
west side of the county court-house, containing two thousand four hundred
and five and one-half feet, whereby his land was bought for $3 per foot, while
the smaller piece, on which the engine-house stood, was taken in exchange at
$5 per foot. The engine-house on Mason street, despite the alterations recently
made, could not be made suitable ; at times over six inches of water would
cover the engine fioor. Plans were prepared by the members for a two- story
building of brick and stone, to take the place of the old one, which arrange-
ments were accepted by the committee, and a very fine house erected.
166 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
To carry out the extensive repairs, etc., in the department, the $10,000
appropriated by the city was found to be insufficient; consequently, on March
8, $12,000 more were added. After the authorization of this order,
the mayor recommended, and the City Council ordained, that thereafter the
expenditure be made under the superintendence of a joint committee of the
City Council, to consist of seven pei'sons, and three of the Board of Alder-
men, and no expenditure of more than $50 be sanctioned by any committee
unless the same should be previously authorized by a vote of a majority of that
committee ; which measure proved highly advantageous for the promotion of
harmony and subordination among the chief and his assistant engineers.
Engine 10, on the Mill creek, was ordered a new house, at a cost of $800 ;
but this was objected to by a Mr. Holbrook, as a new street was to be cut
through in that section. The committee appointed to investigate the matter
reported in favor of the building being erected. A building for Engine 16
was ordered erected near the gun-house on Fort Hill, but was objected to by
a number of inhabitants as being dangerous. A site of land fifteen by forty-
five feet in dimensions was therefore secured, on July 23, from Mr. T. P.
Simpson, on Purchase street, for ten years, at $60 per year. Engine 8, on
November 19, had a wooden house built on a site of land fifty by twenty feet
in dimensions, situated on Warren street, — the pi'operty of Thomas Emmons,
— which the city leased for five j^^ears, at $130 per annum. Previously to this
the old Franklin school -house was ordered to be fitted up for their temporary
accommodation. Engine 6 was ordered to have built accommodations for the
drying of hose in the school-house, the tower to be " three feet wide, and four
and one-half feet long, erected behind the street door." On April 23 the
mayor issued certificates, to be given to each member of the department the
last week in April, ensuing. At the same date the laws relating to military
duty were ordered published. Engine 6 was disbanded on December 20 by
the chief for allowing the hose to lay in the iiouse five days after being in
service, without being washed. A new company was organized four days later.
That official issued orders soon after, requesting every engine to " take all
their hose with them when going to a fire, as it might be wanted ; then, after
I'eturning to the house, to spread it out and heat the room as hot as possible,
so that it would be thoroughly dried."
The entire list of members of the department for the year numbered one
thousand three hundred and two, all of whom worked together in entire har-
mony with each other. The cause of the dissensions before and during a
later period was the unfortunate bickering and difficulties arising among the
members, which contributed in a most powerful manner to injure the depart-
ment in the public estimation. The disgraceful conduct of a few, unhappily
brought dishonor on the many. The great majority, however, felt the impor-
tance of maintaining, on all occasions, the honor and respectability of the
institution. They clearly understood that when any man entered the public
service as a fireman he enters also into a compact, as binding as though signed
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 167
and sealed, to perform the duties required by the law and its officers, to sub-
mit to the salutary rules and regulations legally established for tbe govern-
ment of the department and the company to which he is attached ; he is bound
to obey the orders of his own officers by the regulations of his own company,
and the engineers by the ordinance of the city and the laws of the State. If
those conditions were obnoxious no one was constrained to subject himself
to them, and any man, when dissatisfied with the department or any of its
officers, must have known that the doors were wide open for his exit. Much
of the difficulties resulted from the introduction of minors. On the rolls of
some of the disbanded companies were the names of many individuals who
were desirous of doing the department all the injury possible. Several of
these companies formed associations f(jr the express purpose of remaining
together until an opportunity offered to get revenge. They long held nightly
meetings, and on an alarm of fire were ready to rush to the scene of action,
to stir up dissatisfaction, fan any flame of discord, and create and join in
any row or quarrel. But as the city grew, and the department gained strength
b}^ reason of its superior S3'stem and appliances, this class of men were care-
fully excluded from every company, and their pretended devotion to the rights
of firemen carefully examined by every member who desired to promote the
harmony and welfare of an important institution, that cannot exist without
law, obedience, and discipline.
The changes in the officers of the engine companies and the locations of the
engine-houses, for the year, were as follows : No. 4, Ann street ; George
Armenege, oice Captain Eaton ; G. B. Carreau, vice Dalton, clerk. No. 5,
Market square ; George Andrews, viceS. F. Foster, vice Captain Torrey ; S. H.
Hall and S. A. Andrews, assistants. Engine and Hose No. 7, School, corner
Court street ; W. G. P^atou, vice James Wild, vice Captain Battles ; J. A.
Davis, foreman of hose ; Charles Fuller, vice Parker, clerk ; seventy-five
members. No. 8, 58 Warren street, near 484 Washington street ; Lyman
Tucker, Jr., vice William Willett, vice Captain Throope ; J. T. Mulner, vice
A. J. Dow, vice Blanchard, clerk. No. 10, Mill bridge, Hanover street ;
John Wedger, vice Captain Baxter; John Goodwin, assistant foreman. No.
13, discharged February 21. No. 14, Milk street; Henry Smith, vice Captain
Trumbull ; Jacob Fowle, J. A. Smith, assistants ; William Lawrence, vice
Glover, clerk. No. I.*), Commercial street ; C. S. Clark, vice Captain Foster ;
E. Witherell, J. M. Ball, assistants ; George Clark, vice Hillman, clerk.
No. 16, between Rowe's and Foster's wharf; James Jones, Jr., vice Captain
Hawes ; Joseph Sargent and T. H. St'ibbins, assistants ; C. F. Stibbins, vice
Rand, clerk. No. 17, Hawes hall, South Boston; R. W. Lund, assistant;
E. C. Blake, vice Haley, clerk. Ladder 1, Merrimack street; John Stevens
and John Davidson, assistants ; William Green, clerk ; fifty members ; the
truck carried four ladders of sixty feet, forty-five feet, twenty-five feet, and
two twenty feet long respectively ; three hooks ; two twenty-five, two twelve,
and two six foot crotch-poles ; two torches ; four hammers ; two lanthorns,
168 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
and " tackling" for one horse. Ward companies : Ward 1, Henry Andrews,
vice Captain Abrahams ; John Holman, vice Edes, clerk. 4, Jacob C. Flint,
vice Captain Riley , Thomas Waterman, vice Watson, clerk. 6, J. A. Bal-
lard, vice Captain Lincoln ; G. S. Sterns, vice Hohnan, clerk. 7, R. Warren,
vice Hayward, clei'k. 8, Thomas Baker, vice Peraberton, clerk. 9, George
W. Williams, vice Watkins, clerk.
The first schedule of the location of fire-plugs inserted into the aqueduct
for the use of the department was issued during the year and contained the
following: 1, Washington, opposite Avery street; 2, Centre street ; 3, Cen-
tre, opposite Pleasant street ; 4, Centre street, near Viles & Atkins store, in
the east sidewalk ; G, Pleasant street; 7, Common street; 8, Pearl, corner of
Milk street, in the city drain. Reservoirs : State, Hanover, Summer, Park,
Franklin, and Union streets, Hancock school-house, North square, Summer
street rear of State House Bowdoiu square. Old South Church, Liberty square.
Mill creek and Hanover street, Mill creek aiid Ann street, and Frog pond on
the Common.
Such was the high estimation in which the new department was held
during 1828, that the very heavy appropriation allowed for the erection of
buildings, repairs of apparatus, etc , were passed in both branches of the City
Council without difficulty, while the presidents of several insurance companies
authorized the statement that the rates of insurance against fire was reduced
twenty per cent, solely on account of the efficiency of the depai'tment. . Chief
Harris informed the board that all the companies must be treated alike as
regards apparatus, etc. ; unless this was done, partiality was claimed to be
shown. To treat all companies alike appropriations would be required for
the erection of new houses for Engines 1, 2, 4, 5, 14, 17, enlarge 3, 13, 6,
and 15, and repair Engines 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 17, and 16. A house was erected m
North Bennett street, for Engine 2, by R. G. Shaw, for $150 per year and
taxes. On the same date the old house of No. 8 was sold for $8. A site
for No. 14 was obtained on Water street, between Merchants' Hall and
Phillips building ; but, not being satisfactory, the building was erected on the
land of E. B. Phillips on the same terms as that of No. 2. Engine 4 was in
very poor accommodations in Ann street, the tide flowed into the house, and
the engine was always rusty and damp, and, being at the bottom of a hill, the
apparatus could not be moved without the aid of at least eight members.
The company was moved soon after to Distil-house square, by reason of
which a number of the old members resigned, being too far away ; new members
were then admitted, and they wanted to run the engine themselves, the
result being a quarrel, and disbandment of the company on June 21. On
August 19, twenty men from Engine 7, under command of W. H. Tileston,
took charge.
The mayor and Aldermen Irving and Armstrong wei'e appointed a com-
mittee on the department for 1828. Mr. J. Demary was the only new member
appointed on the board of engineers for the year. At their meeting held
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 169
May 5, Captain Foster, of No. 15, was discharged on complaint of Engineer
Demary, for insubordination at a fire on April 22. Mr. Seth Kingsbury, of
No. 17, asked for compensation for injuries maintained at the same fire, and
was allowed $40.
At a meeting of the engineers of the fire department, held January 1,
1828, the following important orders were passed : —
That a signal lantern be procured and deposited in Engine-house No. 7, and that
three members be detailed from the company of said engine to take charge of, and repair
with the same to all fires at which the department shall appear, taking position in front of
the fire, and there remain until further orders.
That the position of the signal lantern be considered as the headquarters of the
department at all fires.
That a Bugle Band be attached to the department, whose duty it shall be to repair to
all fires and report at headquarters.
That twelve members of the department, one from each of the Fire Companies, be
detailed to act in communicating orders and information from headquarters to the
engines during the operation of the department at fire, repairing immediately on the alarm
of fires to the position taken by the signal lantern, there form, and wait for orders.
That the Hose Company repair with its hose and apparatus and take position in the
rear of the headquarters, or as near to the same as circumstances will admit, the officer
commanding to report himself immediately on his arrival and to remain at headquarters
to furnish hose when required. All requisition for hose to be sent to headquarters.
That the Hook and Ladder Company with its apparatus take position in rear of
headquarters, or as near thereto as may be found convenient, the commanding officer
reporting and to remain at headquarters.
That when it shall be decided for the department to retire from a fire it shall be
announced by calls from the Bugle Band. The calls shall be as follows : First, for the
coming in of the engineer. Second, for commanding officers of engine, hose, hook &
ladder and fire companies to repair to headquarters. Third, the members of the fire
companies will repair to and take position, forming in line near headquarters, when
their rolls will be called by order of their respective commanding officers.
That the department then be directed to retire with the exception of such as may
have been detached for further service. The fourth call of the Bugle Band will announce
that movement.
Per order,
SAMUEL D. HARRIS,
Chief Engineer.
Engine-house No. 13 was burned on March 8. A few days later, on request
of Captain Bobbins, the engine was altered to a suction. Ten men were
discharged from Engine No. 5 for insubordination, and George Andrews was
appointed foreman, on September 22. There were nine hundred and seventy-
three members of the department on February 27, 1828, the changes being :
Engine 1, Otis Munroe, vice Captain Hooton; No. 5, George Andrews, vice
Captain Andrews ; No. 6, James Boyd, vice Captain Tufts ; No. 7, Jno.
Amory Davis, vice James Wild, vice Captain Eaton ; Charles Fuller, foreman
of hose; No. 10, Joseph Goodwin, vice Captain Wedger ; No. 11, John F.
Trull, vice Captain Spear; No. 13, Charles Robbins, May 15, vice James
170 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIBE BEPABTMENT.
Peirce, vice Captain Blaisdell ; No. 15, Cornelius Turner, vice Captain Clark ;
No. 16, E. O. Hawes, vice Captain Jones; No. 17, Joseph Young, vice
Captain Locke; Nos. 18 and 19, William Barnicoat ; No. 20, Edward
Battles, and Charles Tullard, captain of Hose No. 1, first put in service
during the year. Firemen : Ward 2, R. T. Robinson, vice Captain Andrews ;
3, Isaac S. Dupee, vice Captain Siarapson ; 7, J. C. Bridgmau, vice John W.
Harris, vice Captain Brigham ; 8, George Dearborn, vice Captain Hoolau.
The ladders belonging to the city, besides those carried by the ladder-
truck, were located in various sections of the city, as follows : one of thirty-foot
and hook at Engine 15, Ann-street draw-bridge ; one each at Hancock School,
Engines 3 and 10, and a hook at Medical College, Mason street. Those
belonging to the societies were : thirty-foot, at Boston Theatre ; forty-five
foot, at Old South Church ; thu'ty-five foot, HoUis-street Church ; forty
foot, Mr. Lovell's church, and three under the arch on Central wharf.
On October 8 the Chief Engineer addressed a letter to the mayor,
resigning his office on account of ill-health, and, after expressing " his obliga-
tions to the officers and members of the department for their prompt and willing
cooperation in bringing the new system into efficiency," added, " that the de-
partment was adequate to all the purposes of its establishment, and possessed
a body of men whose alacrity, zeal, and devotedness could not be improved."
On December 8 the mayor, after vain attempts to induce the chief to with-
draw his resignation, communicated it to the Board of Aldermen, and it
ha\ang been accepted by them, he transmitted a message, highly praising
Chief Harris for his work during the three years he had been in command,
and that, although the chief had requested, in assuming his office, that no com-
pensation be paid him, recommended that some proper acknowledgment should
be made for his services. This message was referred to a joint committee,
who on the 22d reported the following order for the adoption of the City
Council : —
Whereas, the City Council hold in high estimation the services rendered this city
by Samuel Devens Harris, late Chief Engineer of the Fire Department, and are convinced
that the general spirit of harmony, of subordination, and efficiency which characterized
that department and render it highly honorable to those who compose it, and useful to the
city, is to be a>ttributed, in a great degree, to the intelligence, the zeal, and active exertions
of its late chief, — It is, therefore, ordered. That the thanks of the City Council be, and
they hereby are, presented to Samuel Devens Harris, for the faithful, arduous, and highly
useful services, gratuitously rendered by him for nearly three years in the office of Chief
Engineer of the Fire Department.
The report being read and accepted, the order was passed by a unani-
mous vote in both branches of the City Council. Mr. Harris also received a
complimentary vote of the department on his resignation, to which he had
a fitting reply printed and distributed to the members.
On December 22, Mayor Quincy declining to be a candidate for reelec-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 171
tion, Mr. Harrison Gray Otis was elected wittiout opposition. In the address
of the former, on taking final leave of the office, in speaking of the fire de-
partment, he said : —
The element which chiefly endangers cities is that of Fire. It cannot at this day-
be forgotten by my fellow-citizens with what labor and hazard of popularity the old
department was abolished and the new established. From the visible and active energy
which members of a fire department take in the protection of the city against that element
they always have been and always must be objects of general regard. Great as is the
just popularity at present enjoyed by that department, the same public favor was largely
enjoyed by their predecessors, who at that time composing it were a hardy, industrious,
effective body of men, who had long been inured to the service, and who, having the
merit of veterans, naturally imbibed the errors into which old soldiers in a regular service
are accustomed to fall. They were prejudiced in favor of old modes and old weapons.
They had little or no confidence in a hose system ; and, above all, they were beset with the
opinion that the continuance of their corps was essential to the safety of the city. More
than once it was said distinctively to the executive of the city that, " if they threw down
the engines, none else could be found capable of taking them up." Under the influence
of such opinion they demanded of the city a specified annual sum for each company. It
was refused. Aud in one day all the engines in the city were surrendered by their
respective companies, and, on the same day, every engine was supplied with a new com-
pany by the voluntary association of public-spirited individuals.
From that time a regular systematic organization of the fire department was
begun and gradually effected. The best model of engines was sought; the best experience
consulted which our own or other cities possessed. New engines were obtained, old ones
repaired; proper sites for engine-houses sought; when suitable' locations were found,
purchased, and those built upon; when such were not found, they were hired. No
requisite preparations for eflSciency was omitted, and every reasonable inducement to
enter and remain in the service was extended.
The eflflcient force and state of preparation of this department now consists of
twelve hundred men and officers, twenty engines, one hook-and-ladder company, eight
hundred buckets, seven thousand feet of hose, twenty-five hose carriages, and every
species of apparatus for strength of the department or for the accommodation of its
members.
In this estimate also ought to be included fifteen reservoirs, containing three hun-
dred and fifty, thousand gallons of water, located in different parts of the city, besides
those sunk in the Mill creek, and the command of water obtained by those connected with
the pipes belonging to the aqueduct.
Of all the expenditures of the city government none, perhaps, have been so often
denominated extravagant as those connected with this department. But when the vol-
unteering of the service, its importance, and the security and confidence actually
attained, are considered, it is believed they can be justified. In four years all the
objects enumerated, including" the reservoirs, have cost a sum not exceeding sixty
thousand dollars, which is about forty-eight thousand dollars mor^ than the old
department in a like series of years was accustomed to cost. The value of the
fixed and permanent property now existing in engine-houses and their sites, engines
and apparatus, and reservoirs cannot be estimated at less than twenty thousand dollars.
So that the expenditure of the new department beyond the old for these four years cannot
be stated at more than five thousand dollars a year, or twenty thousand. Now, it will be
found that, m consequence solely of the efllciency of this department, there has been a
reduction of twenty per cent, on the rate of insurance within the period above specified.
By this reduction of premiums alone there is an annual gain to the city on its insurable
172 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
real estate of ten thousand dollars, the whole cost enumerated in two years. In this con-
nection, let it be remembered, how great is the security in this respect now enjoyed by the
city; and that, previously to its establishment, two fires — that in Kilby, Central, and
Broad streets and that in Beacon street — occasioned a loss to it, at the least estimate, of
eight hundred thousand dollars. Unquestionably, greater economy may be introduced
hereafter into this department in modes which were impracticable at its commencement
and in its earlier progress. Measures having that tendency have been suggested. These,
doubtless, future City Councils will adopt, or substitute in their stead such as are wiser and
better.
All the chief great expenses necessary to perfect efficiency have been incurred, and
little more remains to be done than to maintain the present state of completeness in its
appointment.
The committee, of which Mayor Otis was a member, appointed to make
alterations in the ordinance relating to the department, reported on January
26, 1829, that the usual time for the appointment of engineers took place in this
month; that, owing to the unsettled state of the nominations, the time was
postponed until February, a temporary chief being chosen. At the same
date a petition was rendered by the foremen to the effect that the department
was hard. to fill with members, and that the work was very laborious, for
encouragement to engage in which they wished to be exempted forever from
military and jury duty, except in case of war, after serving Ave years. On
February 16 this was allowed, with the additional clause of seven years in-
stead of five.
Mr. Thomas C Amory was appointed chief of the department, February
9, and the old board of engineers was reelected. On the 29th this body
of officials, with the exception of the chief, presented a memorial to the
City Council " requesting that measures may be taken, as soon as consistent
with the convenience of the city authorities, to elect others to supply their
places, and that, in the meantime, they will act as heretofore and give all
the aid and assistance in their power in subduing the common enemy." On
March 25 a vote passed the Board of Aldermen, giving their thanks to the
late assistant engineers for the fidelity and alacrity uniformly manifested by
them in the discharge of their arduous duties, etc. On the same day the
vacancies thus created were filled by electing the following twelve citizens :
Charles Brintnall, William Barnicoat, Benjamin Smith, J. C. Flint, J. D.
Annabell, Thomas Haverland, J. S. Tyler, James AVeld, E. 0. Hawes, Ben-
jamin Yeaton, B. M. Nevers, and J. Barry, Jr. On February 23 the chief
had an office in the old State-House formerly occupied by the County
Treasurer assigned to him, and on April 1 a salary of one thousand dollars
per year was established by the city authorities, to be computed from Feb-
ruary 16 preceding. Previous to this time the service of the chief had beea
gratuitously rendered.
The Second Baptist Church asked, on January 19, that the city give up
the land on which Engine 3 was located, on Salem street, unless they intended
to purchase ; but the city bought a site on the same street from the Baldwin
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 173
Place Association. A new engine-house was ordered for Engine 17 at South
Boston on January 6. A new two-story brick house was ordered built on
April 1 for Engine 2, and one of wood for Engine 17. At the same time
Engine 4 was ordered to be put in repair and transferred to a locality near
the House of Reformation. Engine 17 was also removed to No. 4's old
quarters, a new engine built with a suction-hose for No. 17. Francis Trask,
with others, was given the charge of No. 4, or any other engine placed in
Chardon street ; but the company did not agree, and was kept in a constant
state of insubordination, which resulted in their disbandment ; but Captain
Trask was soon after reinstated. A piece of land was leased from J. Cham-
berliu, on Cambridge street, for this engine, on November 13. On petition of
Joseph Cooledge and others, May 6, $2,500 were appropriated for the erection
of an engine-house on Leverett street, West Boston.
Reservoirs were placed during the year on Poplar street ; Hanover
street, near North Church ; Washington street, near Boylston Market ; a
tide-reservoir in Mill creek, on Sea street ; and two south of Boylston Market,
to be supplied from the aqueduct, for the erection of which $10,000 were
appropriated. The firemen asked the committee, on April 1, that they be
allowed fire-caps, chains, and lanterns, also $100 per year. A new patent
sliding-ladder was introduced in the department on April 1. On September
21 the members of the ladder company were provided with caps like those
worn by the engiuemen.
The city had been quite free from extensive fires during the past four
years, but the one ensuing had four conflagrations placed on its record as
quite disastrous. The first occurred at the Custom-House, during which
Engine 5 was burnt. The Charlestown fire department rendered excellent
service and were publicly thanked. On August 14 Union street was the scene
of quite a blaze ; on October 8, one visited Stillman street. November 29, fire
commenced in a building on Summer street occupied by H. T. Salisbury ; it
soon spread to several adjoining buildings on Washington street, all of which
were totally destroyed ; loss, $30,000.
The changes in the commanding officers for the year were: Engine 1,
Eben Knowlton, vice Captain Munroe. No. 2, David Parker, vice Captain
Bassett ; Thomas Denhurst, clerk. No. 3, Samuel Pratt, clerk. No. 6, James
Riley, vice George Sanderson, vice Captain Boyd. No. 7, W. G. Eaton, vice
William H. Tileston, vice Captain Davis ; L. H. Huntington and J. L. Hewitt,
assistants ; W. B. Swift, foreman of hose ; J. B. Parker, clerk. No. 10, John
Chester, vice Captain Goodwin. No. 11, Elijah Clark, vice Captain Trull.
No. 12, John Green, Jr., vice Captain James Barry, March 25. No. 13, W.
T. H. Duncan, clerk. No. 14, William Lawrence, clerk. ' No. 15, James L.
Barber, vice Captain Turner. No. 16, William Rhodes, vice Captain Hawes.
No. 17, Nehemiah P. Mann, vice Ckptain Young. Hose 1, Benjamin F.
Munroe, vice Captain TuUard. Fire companies : No. 1, William Knapp, vice
Captain Belton. No. 2, S. W. Hall, vice Captain Robinson. No. 3, Franklin
174 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Nurse, vice Captain Dupee. No. 4, David Kimball, vice Captain Riley.
No. 6, Slade Luther, vice Captain Ballard. No. 7, Franklin Howard, vice
Captain Bridgman. No. 8, J. Barnard, clerk. No. 9, G. W. Wilkins, clerk,
promoted foreman August 9, vice Rich. No. 10, Richard A. Newell, vice
Captain Cain ; A. Winchester, clerk. No. 11, vSamuel Curtis, vice Captain
Howes ; W. A. B. Amiston, clerk.
The Board of Engineers for 1830 consisted of the same gentlemen as
composed it the year previous, with the exception of Mr. Otis Munroe, who
was elected in the place of B. Smith. N. P. Mann was also appointed from
South Boston district, being the first engineer to represent that section. The
report of this body of officials, sent to the City Council on February 15,
proposed several changes to be made in the department. The number of
engines was sufficient to protect the city, and all in good condition, except
No. 11, which they recommended to be replaced with a new suction-engine,
the old one to be used at the mill-dam. Nos. 1,4, 12, and 13, from their
peculiar location, were also ordered to be provided with suction-hose. The
condition of the hose was reported very bad, but the two thousand feet already
ordered would bring the supply to a fair standard. The useless hose was
put on a reel for pump use, for filling reservoirs, etc. The ladder-service
was also stated as inadequate, and the condition of the ladder-truck was almost
useless. They asked that it be sent to South Boston, which was without
one, and a new one of better construction be made to supply its place,
equipped with more ladders, especially those for use on roofs. A ladder
company was requested to be organized to take charge of another truck,
which should be placed on Bedford, West, or Essex streets. The sj'stem,
or want of system, of giving alarms was considered, and a change made in
the ringing of the bells by having them tolled for ser^dce after sundown,
instead of rung, which was mistaken by many as an alarm of fire. The
number of members of the department was larger than at any other previous
period, and the general state of order and discipline was highly satisfactory.
March 13, a site of land was leased by the city for Engine 20, on Sea
street, at a rental or $100 per annum for ten years. At the same date $5,600
were ordered to be borrowed by the city at five per cent. , to meet the expense
of this department.
Engine No. 8, on Warren street, was moved to the old Franklin school-
house on Tremont street, May 17, and Engine No. 10 was moved to Han-
over street, July 26. $386.25 were paid by the Massachusetts Charitable
Relief Association, on May 15, to a member of the department injured at a
recent fire. Of this sum the association was allowed $200 by the city. On
December 12 an order was passed in the Council that the association be
allowed $400 per annum for five years, dating from May 1, for the relief of
members injured in the service.
December 3, James Quinn, third officer of Engine No. 1, and Private E.
0. Eaton were discharged for " inciting the members of that company to acts
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 175
of insubordination ; " but tliey were reinstated in the service some time after.
Twenty-nine members left the company at the time ; those who remained
were thanked by the city. The fire company of Ward 7 wrote the chief that
they would take charge of this engine while the company was out. Mr. J.
Foster asked for permission, on July 12, to apply a gum-elastic cement to
the engine-hose, which he claimed would make it water-tight.
The Charitable Association of the Boston Fire Department was instituted
June 19, 1829, and incorporated February 12, 1830. Section 1 of the act of
incorporation states : " That Edward E. Prescott, George Dearborn, and
Jonathan A. Davis, with their associates and successors, be, and they hereby are,
incorporated by the name of the Charitable Association of the Boston Fire
Department, for the purpose of affording relief to such of their members as
may at any time receive injury in the discharge of their duties as members of
the Boston Fire Department, or to their families in the event of their decease ;
and by that name may sue and, be sued, and may have and use a common
seal." Any fireman who received injuries while performing his duties as fire-
man, and who paid fifty cents annually, received assistance during the period
his certificate was dated, by having all his physician's and other necessary bills
paid and a sum allowed him for his lost time, not exceeding nine dollars per
week, which assistance was continued as long as he was sick. An additional
act was passed April 16, 1838, the first two sections of which are as fol-
lows : —
Section 1. Every member of the Boston Fire Department shall, at all times here-
after, have a right to be admitted a member of the " Charitable Association of the Boston
Fire Department." Also, all the members of the Veteran Association of the Boston Fire
Department, who shall have been, for the term of seven successive years, members of said
Fire Department, shall have the right of becoming members of the said " Charitable As-
sociation " by producing to the Secretary of the Association sufficient evidence of member-
ship, subscribing the Constitution of the Association, and paying to the Treasurer such sum,
not exceeding one dollar, as the Association shall from time to time direct, which payment
shall be in full for the annual contribution of the current year.
Sect. 2. The Treasurer of said Association is hereby authorized and required, after
paying the debts of the Association, to invest with the Massachusetts Hospital Life Insur-
ance Company, for a term not exceeding thirty years, the residue of the available funds of
the Association, not exceeding the sum of Three Thousand Dollars, and the income thereof
shall be applied by the Trustees of said Association for the time being, at their discretion,
to the relief or assistance of any member of the Association or his family, or any past
member who has belonged to stj,id Fire Department for five years, and has been honorably
discharged therefrom; and any cause of distress, in these cases, shall be considered as
entitled to the attention of the Board of Trustees.
The presidents of the association, from its organization to 1888, are as fol-
lows : Moses Williams, from January, 1829, to January, 1830 ; J. Weld, from
Januar}', 1830, to April, 1830; J. Barry, Jr., from April, 1830, to January,
1832 ; T. C. Amory, from January, 1832, to May, 1838 ; J. Boyd, from May,
1838, to January, 1839 ; J. G. Sanderson, from January, 1839, to January,
176 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
1842; John Green, Jr., from Jauuar}^ 1842, to January, 1844; Jotham B.
Munroe, from January, 1844, to January, 1845 ; John C. Hubbard, from
January, 1845, to January, 1877 ; John S. Damrell, 1877, present incumbent.
Chief Amory, in reply to a letter of Mr. Neil Dow, of the Portland,
Me., fire department, asking for information regarding the system in this
city, stated that he preferred leather hose on account of its pliability and its
better regulating the distance ; that he always had a double company for each
engine, — that is, a sufficient number for relief at fires ; that the fire companies
were exempt from military but not jury duty ; the Associated Fire Engine
and Hydraulian Company was attached to Engines Nos. 18 and 19, the
latter being the suction-engine, both being under one foreman, who had three
assistants, the first and third having charge of No. 19, and the second officer
remained with the foreman at No. 18 ; but he added, '* the arrangement is a
bad one, as the men are apt to have a preference for one engine or officer, or
the position of the same at a fire, over the other, and it is very troublesome
to keep each one to his particular post, having a common right in the whole,
and thus it will sometimes happen that one engine is crowded with men and the
other destitute ; besides, the Hydraulian is not always — perhaps not half the
time — employed in feeding the ' Philadelphia,' and is constantly liable, by
the orders of the engineers, to be put on other duty, either to supply or play
in some other line, or on the fire, as circumstances may occur."
The stone church on Hanover street was destroyed by fire, February 1,
this being the only important conflagration during the year.
The changes in the department were: No. 1, John Davis, vice Captain
Knowlton ; A. A. Adams, assistant ; A. G-. Dawes, clerk. No. 2, S. N.
Gushing and John Pratt, Jr., assistants; A. Hopkins, vice Denhurst, clerk.
No. 3, Luther Russell, vice Captain Swallow ; Samuel Pratt and George
Wilkins, vice William Hay and D. M. Eaton, assistants ; George Wright,
vice Pratt, clerk. No. 4, John Hammond, vice Captain Trask ; Thomas PoUand
and James Henry, assistants ; H. N. Crane, clerk. No. 5, S. N. Hall and S.
A. Andrews, assistants ; J. Healey, clerk. No. 6, A. W. Green and Charles
Larkin, assistants ; J.B. Nason, clerk. No. 7, J. H. Blake and John Ayers,
assistants. No. 10, T. 8. Pratt, vice Captain Chester ; John Wedger and J.
S. Low, assistants. No. 11, Gardner Wheelwright and J. Gray, assistants.
No. 12, James N. Wheeler and Thomas Gorch, assistants; A. M. Rand,
clerk. No. 13, George F. Spooner, vice Captain Robbins ; B. Richardson
and Benjamin Underwood, assistants ; J. A. Austin, clerk. No. 15, C. S.
Clark, vice Captain Barber; James Richards, assistant; P. B. Elliott, clerk.
No. 16, Joseph Jones, vice Captain Rhodes ; G. F. West, assistant ; C. W.
Stebbins, clerk. No. 17, Richard Locke, vice Captain Mann; J. W. Locke
and G. F. Belser, assistants ; F. E. C. Blake, clerk. Nos. 18 and 19, C. W.
Lowett and Allen Whitman, assistants ; E. G. Austin, clerk ; seventy-five
men on engine, and sixty on hose company. Ladder No. 1, Charles Prescott
and O. Whipple, assistants; Otis Trull- clerk. Fire companies: No. 1,
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIBE BEPABTMENT. 177
Gilbert Nurse, vice Captain Knapp. No. 2, C. Andrews, vice Captain Hall ;
J. Davis, clerk. No. 3, D. W. Barnes, vice Captain Nurse. No. 4, I. Law-
rence, clerk. No. 5, Charles Hersey, vice Captain Hammond ; Caleb Whit-
ing, clerk. No. 6, J. A. Ballard, clerk. No. 7, Chester Daniels, vice
Captain Howard. No. 8, I. Richardson, clerk. No. 9, G. W. Wilkins, vice
Captain Rice; William Cassidy, clerk. No. 10, E. Haynes, Jr., clerk. No.
11, G. W. Smith, clerk. No. 12, Henry Curtis, vice Captain Williams;
Joseph L. Richardson, clerk.
The following rules regarding the department went into force January 17,
1831: —
Rule 1. No person under the age of 18 admitted a member. 2. No more than one-
fifth part of the whole number of persons admitted into any company of firemen, hosetuen,
hook-and-ladder men, or enginemen, at the same time, should be persons under the age of
21. 3. That no person under the age of 21 shall be admitted into the fire department at
any time, unless he shall furnish to the foreman of the company to which he may apply a
written certificate of the consent of his parents, master, or guardian, which certificate shall
be transmitted to the mayor and aldermen at the same time the name of such person
shall be offered for admission. 4. That the age of every one under 21 years whose name
shall be offered to the mayor and aldermen for admission with any company shall be
stated on the list. 5. That no person under 21 shall be an oflScer of any engine or other
company belonging to the fire department, excepting the clerk. 6. That it be recom-
mended to the several engine and other companies of the fire department to elect five
sub-assistants, being of age, whose duty shall be, according to senioritj' of age, to act as
foremen at fires in the absence of the foreman and assistant foreman. 7. That the name
of all persons hereinafter admitted into the fire department shall be returned to the board
of aldermen, to the end that they may be appointed, and receive their certificate within
ten days after.
Messrs. J. P. Bradlee, J. Hammond, A Tileston, H. Smith, D. Kimball,
G. M. Smith, R. S. Fay, and W. G. Hodgkinson were appointed on the
Board of Engineers. Mr. Bradlee declined. Messrs. Flint, Annabell, and
Weld resigned. The first report of the engineers regaidiug the number and
extent of fires for the year was sent to the City Council on January 17, in
which was stated that there occurred fifty-two fires, at a loss of $54,720,
being an increase of $33,295 in excess of the year previous. Twenty-seven
false alarms were given.
Quite a disturbance was created on January 3 by the appointment of
William Spear as foreman of Engine 10. At first several members of the
company complained of his election as being illegal. This was taken up by
most of the other companies, who requested his discharge. On investigation
by the committee on February 21, he was dismissed. Engine 7 sent in a
petition requesting his reinstatement as a member of the department ; but this
was not granted. The quarters of Engine 10 were set fire to during January,
but the investigation by the engineers regarding its origin resulted in nothing
definite. May 9, after matters had become quieted, the members asked for
178 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
sufficient funds to procure furniture for the engine-house, which was granted
on July 6.
Messrs. Prescott, Haskell, and Harris were appointed a committee, on
June 7, to inquire regarding men injured while in the service of the depart-
ment, and report a bill for legislative action necessary for their aid. An-
engine for No. 12 was ordered May 2, and a new house for the new ladder truck
was requested by the chief to be erected on High street. A site of land thirty-
five by eighteen feet in dimensions was purchased December 12, at Sl-20
per foot, on Essex street, for a house for Engine No. 20.
Such was the harmou}' of feeling in the department after the settlement
of the quarrel of Engine 10, that the entire organization dined together in
February, and the City Council invited all the engineers and company com-
manders to meet them at the Old State-House on July 4, to " reciprocate
congratulations and celebrate."
Changes in the engine department for the year: No. 1, A. H. Farnham,
vice Captain Davis. No. 2, A. G. Dawes, T. Reed, and A. H. Wellington,
assistants; Thomas Pattin, Jr., i;ice M. J. Chapin, clerk. No. 3, Mathew
Hunt, vice Captain Parker ; Stephen Wells, Peter Maire, assistants, and J. H.
Pitman, clerk. No. 4, Samuel Pratt, vice Captain Russell ; A. L. Stevens
and S. E. Holbrook, assistants ; S. P. Richardson, vice G. C. Piper, clerk.
No. 5, Cambridge street, E. J. Syford and Daniel Stone discharged July
11 ; N. W. Richardson promoted foreman, vice Captain Hammond ; William
Story and John Withington, assistants ; David Howe, clerk. No. 6, J.
Lincoln, Jr., and W. B. Densmore, assistants; Patrick Riley, clerk. This
company adopted new regulations, and had them printed. No. 7, T. A.
Williams, vice L. A. Huntington on hose, and Charles G. King, assistant on
engine ; P. W. Hayward, clerk ; Samuel Andrews, clerk. No. 8, William
Willet, vice Captain Tucker, Jr. ; Henry Drayton and A. F. Dow, assistants ;
T. Richardson, clerk. This company resigned on August 2. No. 9, Na-
thaniel Frothingham, vice Captain Blanchard ; E. Johnson and T. D. Quincy,
assistants ; Thomas Frothingham clerk. No. 10, Ann street, opposite city
scales, AY. H. Brown, vice Captain Stoddard ; J. Lovett, second assistant,
resigned June 15 ; Oliver Torrey and Cyrus Bruce, assistants ; Jarkin Elling-
wood, clerk. No. 11, Franklin place, Charles Gaylord, vice C. F. Kupper,
Jr., vice Captain Clark; Jef. Healey and F. Belser, assistants, vice John
Dunn, Jr., and P. H. Kelley ; T. C. Fernald, vice H, Hurst, clerk. No. 12,
Franklin school-house, M. Hall, clerk ; William Fernald, foreman of hose.
No. 13, Leverett street, Charles Robbins, vice Captain Spooner ; George
Hammon and Francis Merriam, assistants ; Henry Homer, clerk. No. 14,
Water street, Jacob Fowler, vice Captain Smith ; James Boyd and George
H. Hewes, assistants; K. Whiting, clerk. No. 15, Ann street, E. Wither-
ell and Jonathan Munroe, assistants, and J. Lothrop, clerk. No. 16, Purchase
street, John Ball, vice Captain Jones; E. Dickerson and Joseph Jones, Jr.,
assistants ; A. D. Smith, clerk. No. 18. Tremont street, W. R. Stacey,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 179
vice Captain French ; Elisha Ellens and William Ulman, assistants ; J. W.
Frye, clerk. No. 20, J. Shelton, vice Captain Bridge ; S. Bobbins and L.
Shelton, assistants, and C. S. Hunt, clerk. Ladder No. 1, Justen Cork, vice
Captain Tillson ; G. H. Cunningham and E. Southers, assistants. Ladder
No. 2, organized the ensuing year, and located on High street. G. W. WUkins,
foreman ; Christopher Foster, William R. Williams, and Benjamin Bourch-
stead, assistants ; and George W. Stimpsbn, clerk. The truck carried five
ladders, ten hooks, and ten axes. Ward companies : No. 4, A. Mitchell, vice
Captain Lawrence ; A. Jones and J. W. Lawrence, assistants. No. 6, Aaron
Jaquith, vice Captain Luther ; W. Studley, assistant ; T. T. Roberts, clerk.
No. 7, Charles Homer, vice Captain Daniels ; H. Fairbanks and L. W. San-
derson, vice W. C. Eayes, assistants ; E. A. Johnson, clerk. No. 8, N. J.
Allen, assistant; Thomas Baker, clerk. No. 9, C. Foster and B. Burchstead,
assistants, vice H. R. Coborn, clerk. No. 10, John Collamore, vice Captain
Newell; J. Daniels and E. Foster, assistants; T. Cushing, clerk. No. 11,
Dexter Dana, vice G. M. Smith, vice Captain Curtis ; N. Wales, G. W. Tal-
bott, assistants, vice G. Ellis, D. Dana ; N. A. Thompson, clerk. No. 12,
George Savage and J. L. Emmons, assistants ; A. B. Batt, clerk.
A disastrous fire, from the extent of the loss of life, occuri'ed May 4,
when a bakehouse on Broad street was consumed, and five people burnt ; a
steamboat lying at Tileston's wharf was destroyed on June 30. Several
smaller fires occurred, but they were of trifling importance.
The engineers for the year were Messrs. William Barnicoat, Thomas Hav-
erlaud, B. Yeaton, B. M. Nevers, E. O. Hawes, C. Brinknall, Otis Munroe,
N, P. Mann, James Barr}'^, and John S. Tyler. Messrs. Brinlvnall and Barry
declined, and John Green, Jr., Peter Dunbar, and William G. Eaton were
appointed on March 26. Their report for the year, issued July 2, gave the
number of fires from Januar}'^ 1 to June 30 as twenty-five ; loss, $10,435,
only $9,500 of which being held by insurance companies. Twenty-two false
alarms were also reported.
The Legislature passed an act regarding depredation of engines and
houses, which law was printed and distributed to the citizens on January 16.
A list of injured firemen relieved by the city was sent to the committee on
the same date.
A large quantity of gunpowder, stored at the armory in Faneuil Hall,
was removed by the chief on February 16. On the 27th, at the request of
Nathaniel Hammond and others, a suction-engine was placed on Leverett
street, and numbered 13, and on April 13 the company had their engine named
" Melville," after Mayor Thomas Melville. The basement, used as a storage
for lumber, was put in order for the use of the company, and a suction-hose
placed there. Engine company No. 5 got themselves in trouble over the in-
sulting manner in which they used the chief while he was examining a member
named Mr. Wood, who was charged with insubordination and disobeying
rules, the result being the disbandment of the company on April 24. On
180 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
the 30th a company was organized by Mi'. Rufus R. Cook and thirty-four
others, to whom the apparatus was given. The members of Engine No. 4
surrendered their rights as enginemen on July 16, on account of Assistant
Engineer Yeaton entering a complaint against their foreman, which they
believed was unjust. On December 8th Engine No. 8 had but a few mem-
bers, and, in the absence of a majority of these, new members were elected,
under whom the old members refused to serve. By order of the committee
they were discharged. The list of men belonging to the department,
with those of full age, minors, and exempt members on separate lists, was
made out by the chief. A like roll was annually issued for a long period
afterward.
Changes of officials for the year: Engine No. 1, James Quinn, vice
Captain Farnham ; James HoUis, W. H. Barnes, assistants, vice John Davis
and Charles Rawson ; A. M. Rice, vice Samuel P. Oliver, clerk. There were
eighty-two members of this company. No. 2, Stephen Wells, vice Captain
Hunt, who was elected clerk. No. 3, Salem street, A. S. Stevens, Jr., vice
Captain Russell ; George Wilkins and T. P. Foster, assistants ; E. Glover,
Jr., clerk. No. 5, Dock square, J. Carey, vice David Pulsifer, vice Captain
Foster ; R. R. Cook and Samuel Bird, assistants, vice James Tyler ; Nathaniel
Brown, vice Caleb Pratt, Jr., clerk. No. 6, Doane street, J. G. Sanderson,
vice Captain Riley; Guy Bowker, assistant; A. Boyden, clerk. No. 7,
William B. Swift, vice Captain Eaton ; T. A. Williams and Oliver Jewett,
assistants on engine; John Ayers and S. Andrews on tiose ; R. W. Hay-
wood, clerk. This company declined the charge of the cit}'^ hose on January
11. No. 8, Jacob Richardson, vice George W. Veasey, vice Captain Willet ;
J. Barrell and Glover Townsend, assistants, vice William Sears ; James
Blake, vice George H. Davis, vice I. R. Williams, clerk. No. 9, E.
Johnson and W. B. Warren, assistants. No. 10, Union street, David C.
Vaughan, vice Captain Brown ; Robert Lord and S. F. Barrett, assistants ; J.
R. Farrington, clerk. No. 11, Franklin street. No. 12, J. A. Wheeler, vice
Captain Green; J.C.Drew and M. Hall, Jr., assistants ; A. Rand, clerk.
No. 13, J. B. Osgood and W. Kennard, assistants. No. 14, John Tuttle,
vice Captain Fowles ; G. W. Hewes and D. Stone, assistants, vice J. A.
Smith and John Wendell; M. B. Pierce, cleric. No. 15, C. S. Clark, vice
Captain Barber; C. E. Gay, assistant. No. 16, Sargent Beck, vice Captain
Ball, S. B. Merrill. No. 17, B. Lapham, vice Captain Mann; Augustus
Develle and Fred Ballzar, assistants ; J. Lapham, clerk. No. 18, Leo Match-
ett and M. 011ms, assistants. No. 20, one hundred and one members.
Ladder No. 1, Messrs. Witherell and Woodbury, assistants; R. Abner,
clerk. Ward companies: No. 1, J. R. Betts, assistant; Thomas Holbrook,
clerk. No. 2, William Jameson, vice Captain Hall ; I. Hall, T. H. Thomp-
son, assistants ; R. Restieaux, clerk. No. 4, A. Jones, vice Captain Law-
rence ; James A. Blake, J. A. Concay, assistants ; I. O. Greenough, clerk.
No. 5, E. Jones, vice Captain Hammond ; Ezra Hawkes and J. A. Allen,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPARTMENT. 181
assistants ; E. Snow, clerk. No. 6, M. Warren and J. M. Doan, as-
sistants. No. 7, H. P. Fairbanks, vice Captain Homer; Daniel Bates,
assistant ; J. H. Bufford, clerk. No. 8, F. W. Southark, vice Captain Allen ;
J. Blake, Jr., O. Briad, Jr., assistants, vice Theodore Baker; A. A. Lepeau,
vice James Blake, clerk. No. 10, Josiah Daniells, vice Captain Collamore ;
Edward Haynes, assistant ; J. R. Collamore, clerk. No. 12, Henry Curtis,
vice Captain Savage ; J. L. Emmons and George Savage, assistants ; H.
Davenport, vice A. B. Boss, clerk.
182 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTEE lY.
1832-1834.
SEVERAL heavy fires occurred during 1832. June 24, chemical works
at South Boston; July 4, two large buildings on Commercial street;
several buildings and four vessels were also burned at Spear's wharf. Fort
Hill ; July 7, five buildings and part of the Warren Hotel, in Friend street,
were destroyed; November 21, a bilck building on State street, the City
Hall (Old State-House), and Post-Office were damaged by the fire to the
extent of four thousand dollars ; assistance was rendered by several out-of-
toAvn companies, all of whom were thanked b}' the City Council ; December
27, the windmill on Wheeler's Point.
On April 30, 1832, the members of the department had built a suction-
engine of the finest make that could be produced in this city, which they
named the " Union," and sent to the citizens of Fayetteville, that city having,
during the ensuing year, been almost entirely destroj'ed by fire. Messrs. Otis
Munroe, William G. Eaton, and William Bridge constituted the committee
representing the firemen.
The Board of Engineers for 1833 consisted of Messrs. William Barnicoat,
Thomas Haviland, John S. Tyler, B. M. Nevens, Otis Munroe, John Ham-
mond, N. P. Mann, Jr., David Tileston, Henry Smith, David Kimball, G.
M. Smith, W. G. Hodgkinson, John Green, Peter Dunbar, William G.
Eaton, and John Collamore, Jr. Their report of fires for the past year gave
the number as fift}', the loss being $61,863, $24,078 being covered by in-
surance policies. Sixty false alarms were given.
Engine Co. 10 got in difficulty again, from neglect of duty and insubor-
dination while at a fire on Bridge street, b}'^ which the company was disbanded,
complaint being lodged by Assistant Engineer Kimball February 11th. On
request of the members a hearing was given them, but the decision remained
unchanged. Soon after their dismissal, the signal-lantern and parts of the
engine were bi'oken, spanners stolen, etc. A reward of $50 was offered on
March 4, and increased to $500 on July 22, for the arrest of the offenders,
who, growing bold at the concealment of their first offences, again entered
the building and destroyed a quantity of personal property of the members ;
their loss being reimbursed by an order of the aldermen, issued September 3,
to pay them $25. The parties who were conducting these depredations satis-
fied their revenge by setting fire to the building which was entirely destro3'ed.
A reward of $1,000 was offered for the apprehension of the guilty, but they
were never discovered.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 183
The quarters of Engine 8 was used for a meeting-house, school-house,
and watch-house ; the result of this combination being constant discord and
complaint from one room or another, proving, of course, a constant annoyance
to the members of the engine company, who notified the engineers that
unless they had a new house by July 4 they would give up the "machine."
They changed their minds, however, and remained, as the city would not
accede to their desires ; but on November 18 the watchmen, who occupied a
part of the building, entered complaint of the noise and disorderly conduct
of the members attached to the engine. This had the desired effect, the
company being dismissed on the 25th. A brick partition was then ordered
to be built, to take the place of the one of plank.
Engine 4 was altered to a suction, and pat in proper order on September
30, but had no company to man it. The fire of November 21, the year pre-
vious, in State street, in which the old State-House, or City Hall, as it was
then called, was badly damaged, was made the subject of a sketch, which the
chief submitted to the City Council as appropriate to have engraved and
printed on a certificate to be given to all members who had served seven
years in the department. An order was issued on March 25 to carry this
plan into effect ; the cost of engraving did not exceed $350. A fac-simile of
this plate is still used for veterans' certificates.
A very pleasant occasion for the members was the presentation of a
beautiful tortoise-shell fruit- stand by the engineers and firemen, at Concert
Hall, on April 25, to Chief Engineer Amory.
On March 22 five buildings and a great quantity of lumber were burned
on a wharf at the South end, this being the only fire of any note during the
year.
The changes among, the ofl3cers were : Engine 1, William C.Webster,
clerk, vice Thomas Slocum. No. 2, Charles H. Porter, vice J. Pitts, vice
Captain Wells ; George Whitcomb and John Clark, assistants, vice H. Hutch-
inson, Jr., and William Stocker ; T. P. James, clerk, vice William De Carteret.
No. 3, J. L. Eaton, clerk, vice Johnson. No. 5, R. R. Cook, vice Captain
Carey ; George K. Damrill, assistant ; William True, clerk. No. 6, W. B.
Densmore and L. W. Dunbar, assistants ; J. B. Nason, vice Dunbar, clerk.
No. 7, James H. Blake, vice T. Andrews, foreman of hose ; later, succeeded
Captain Swift; J. E. Jones, H. C. Bird, vice Willet, assistants. No. 8, J. L.
Drew, vice William Sears, vice Captain Richardson ; S. W. Bird and James
Robinson, assistants, vice G. H. Davis and Robert Ridgiey ; R. W. Hall, vice
S. H. Hitchcock. No. 9, E. G. Richardson, vice Captain Johnson ; T. D.
Quincy and C. Ostrom, assistants ; A. F. Dow, clerk. No. 10, January 7,
Joseph Lovett, vice Captain Vaughan ; Lyman Pray and G. W. Kibbie, as-
sistants ; Thomas Somes, clerk; disbanded February 11 ; March 20, company
reorganized, T. P. Foster, foreman ; succeeded by F. W, Southack, A. F.
Waterman, and E. V. Glover, assistants ; T. J. Cashing, clerk, vice J. M.
Merrill, vice E. Parsons. July 1, Captain Southack resigns, James Blake, Jr.,
184 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPABTMENT.
pto-moted ; O. Bried and A, A. Lapliam, assistants ; A. Richardson, clerk. They
voted on November 11 to have their house erected on the site on Mevrimac
street. No. 11, James Boyd, vice Captain Smith; P. H. Keliey and S. S.
Raymond, vice James Bvadlee, assistants; C. 0. Boutelle, clerk. No. 12, F.
Hooton and Charles C White, assistants ; G. W. Bird, clerk. No. 13, J. B.
Osgood, vic& Captain Robbins ; F. B. Merriam, vice William Kennard ; B.
H. Hitchcock, mce J. C. Philbrick, vice E. Robbins ; W. C. Webster, vice
Henry Homer, clerk. No. 14, Nathaniel Wales, vice Captain Tuttle ; T. D.
Allen and Peter Trott, assistants, vice Messrs. Curtis and Gushing ; Al. Bry-
ant, clerk. No. 15, company resigned June 21. Edward Barnicoat, assist-
ant ; George Amerage, clevk. No. 16, T. P. Kendall and William A. Spear,
assistants. No. 17, Augustus Dwelley, vice Captain Lapham ; E. EUins and
B. Lapham, assistants; J. M. Mace, clerk. Nos. 18 and 19, George Match-
ett, vice Captain Stacey ; A. Smith and J. Foster, assistants ; W. W. For-
saith, clerk. Ladder No. 1 , Joshua Jacobs, Jr. , vice Captain Cork ; John Chapin
and Naph. Jepson, assistants ; Charles Redding, clerk. Ladder 2, O. Trenton
and N. W. Bates, assistants ; J. Brisco, vice F. W. Stimpson, clerk. Ward
companies : No. '2, John Davis, vice Captain Jameson. No. 3, D. W. Barnes,
vice Capt. S. H. Barnes ; A. Osgood, assistant ; A. A. Rhodes, vice H. Beals,
clerk. No. 4, C. G. King, vice H. H. Willard, vice Captain Jones ; J. W.
Clark and O. Rich, assistants ; Caleb Marshall, vice G. W. Richardson, clerk.
No. 6, Timoth}' Roberts and D. M. Bailey, assistants ; J. A. BuUard, vice J.
Roberts, vice John Colby, clerk. No. 7, William B. Parmenter and M. B.
Spooner, assistants. No. 8, James Reck, Jr., vice Captain Southack ; D. L.
Davis, assistant; J. Cheever, Jr., clerk. No. 10, February 20, William Hai'd-
wck, vice Captain Daniels; A. Tolman and J. F. Green, assistants, vice J.
McClellan and E. Haj^nes^ Charles Dudley, clerk. August 24, James Tol-
man, foreman; Al. Whitcorab and Charles Andrews, assistants; F. Curtis,
clerk. No. 12, J. L. Emmons, vice Captain Curtis; B. D. Baxter and J. P.
Fairbanks, assistants ; George Jackson, vice Henry Davenport, clerk.
The Board of Engineers appointed for 1834 were ]\fessrs. David Tillston,
William Willett, C. S. Clark, G. M. Smith, Asa Swallow, H. A. Wellington,
B. M. Nevens, John Green, Jr., W. B. Swift, R. A. Newell, D. Kimball, J.
G. Sanderson, Luther Russell, John Shelton. Thomas Motley declined
serving, and Theodore Washburn was elected. A vote of thanks by the
City Council was given to past Engineers Barnicoat, Muuroe, Dunbar,
Haverland, Hodgkinson, Tyler, Collamore, and Mann, for services in the
department.
On a petition of the firemen from Ward 6, on January 2, a bell of more
than three hundred pounds rreight was placed on the English High School,
and on petition of firemen of Ward 12, on June 16, a bell was also placed
on the Franklin schooi-honse. On the recommendation of the engineers,
March 31, a committee was formed to frame a set of Rules and Regulations
to govern the members of the department. A bill presented to the Legisla-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 185
ture, entitled " An act for the protection of the city of Boston against fire,"
was amended an*d passed by the City Council on February 17.
Messrs. Hunting, Prescotfc, McLellan and Aldermen Wetmore and Leigh-
ton were constituted a committee, on April 14, to consider and report upon
the expediency of adopting an act entitled ' ' An act concerning the appoint-
ment of engineers," and such other matters relating to the act as they deemed
expedient. They reported on the 31st, that it was disadvantageous to adopt
the second and third section, whereby members who had done duty one year
should be entitled to receive from the City Treasurer a sum equal to the poll-
tax.
When General Jackson visited Boston, the firemen formed a double line
across the Common, with extended ropes, between which the procession passed
from West street to the State-House. They were in full-dress uniform, with
the exception of No. 7, who by unanimous vote turned out in the battle-
stained suits in which they had fought the last fire, and were described in one
of the papers the next day as " looking like rat-catchers' dogs — rough and
ready."
Quite a row occurred during the winter in Tremont Theatre over ' ' Jim
Crow" Rice, a minstrel who had, it was claimed, broken his engagement to
appear at the National Theatre. For revenge, it is alleged, the manager of
the latter gave one hundred tickets to truckmen to go to the former place of
amusement and hiss Rice when he appeared at the benefit of H. J. Finn, who
announced that he would sing a song addressed tp the fire department.
This, of course, had the desired effect of securing the attendance of the fire-
men, who desired to hear the song and see the fight which was sure to occur,
for they would not allow their favorite to be interfered with. On the night of
the benefit the theatre was crowded with men, not a lady being present. All
went well until Rice made his appearance, when the hissing began. This was
the " battle cry," when the whole audience sprang to their feet, and a fearful
fight was almost instantly in progress, and continued until the " hissers " were
expelled from the building. A number of people were seriously wounded
during the m&lee, and several narrow escapes from death were reported.
Engines Nos. 7 and 14 having very large companies, and their quarters
being near each other, were great rivals. When going to a fire No. 14 had
the assistance of a horse which was called the " cream-colored charger," but
the honors regarding the alacrity with which they arrived at a fire were
about equally divided between both companies. The following lines, to the
tune of " Jim Crow," appeared in one of the newspapers the day following a
fishing excursion of the members of No. 7 : —
" Number Seven's gone a fishen'
For to catch de great sea snake,
And I gness as how if day get him
Dey'll make him work de brake.
186 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
" When dey gets him on de engine
De team will be some larger,
And I guess dey'll pass the Cataract
Wid her cream-colored charger."
Engine Company 3 was dismissed, on May 5, for disorderly conduct while
at a fire on May 1. The company attached to Engine 13 was, on December
1 , also severely censured for going to a fire in Chelsea ; a copy of the letter
was sent to all the companies. In reply, a letter of apology was forwarded
by Captain Quinn and his assistants. Capt. J. L. Barber, foreman of En-
gine 15, was suspended three months for violation of the rules. Engine 5 was
surrendered by its company on November 17, on account of the refusal of the
city to furnish them with a new engine. Tlioraas Baynell and others were
appointed to take charge. Engine 11 was also given up on May 6 from the
same cause. Engine Companies Nos. 17 and 18 voted, August 15. that,
although they were on the best of terms with the Roxbury fire department,
they would not attend fires with their engines in that section.
A return of the Ward P'ire Companies was made, from which it was
learned that some had several volunteers, which was against orders. The
equipment of each of these companies consisted of a carriage, forty-eight
large and three small buckets, one hundred feet of chain, one axe, one
hammer, eleven fire-bags, ten torches, a cap and badge for each of the
twenty-five members, twenty bed-keys, and a swivel ladder.
A muster of the entire department was held on the Common June 1 7th,
at four o'clock in the afternoon, for the purpose of a general inspection and
re\dew by the Mayor and City Council. Mayor Theodore Lyman, Jr., issued
orders on February 10 to the effect that the marshal, or one of his attendants,
should attend every fire, where he was to inform the chief of his presence,
and then assume the duties of a police-officer, wearing his badge of office
while there, and give directions to the constables present. The constables
were to proceed to the fire as soon as the alarm was given, and report to this
officer, under whose direction they were "to use their best skill and power
for the preservation of the public peace, the prevention of theft and dilapi-
dation of property, and the removal of all suspected persons." For this
service they were paid $1 for each attendance.
Changes in the service for 1834 : Engine 1, J. Hollis, vice James Quinn,
vice Captain Farnham ; W. H. Fowl and Alexander Mair, vice W. Peck,
assistants. No. 2, J. B. Munroe, vice Captain Porter; Jesse Farmer, J.
Boynton, and F. W. A. Rankin, assistants ; Charles Mears, vice Clark, clerk.
No. 3, J. H. French, wee Capt. Washington Clapp, and Tbomas Bagnell,
assistant, vice E. Abbott, Samuel Pitts, and W. Storks ; M. A. Johnson, vice
R. Ripley, clerk. No. 4, W. E. Webster, vice E. V. Glover, Jr., vice Cap-
tain Pratt; William, Marshall and R. May, assistants, vice W. C. Web-
ster; M. A. Johnson, clerk. No. 5, G. R. Daniell, vice Captain Cook.
No. 6, Luther W. Dunbar, vice W. B. Sanderson, vice Captain Cook ;
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 18T
Augustus Denton and J. S. Clafton, assistants ; "W. H. Otis, clerk, vice
Nason. No. 7, T. A. Williams, vice Captain Blake; C. W. Dix and E. S.
Andrews, assistants ; R. W. Haywood, foreman of hose ; N. R. Thomas,
assistant ; B. W. Fordick, clerk No. 8, disbanded, and reorganized
March 10, with George Briesler, foreman, and J. H. Foster and C.
Messenger, assistants ; C. H. Whitney, clerk. No. 9, A. F. Dow, vice Cap-
tain Richardson; T. P. Emms, H. Adams, assistants; S. H. Bean, clerk,
vice C. B. Kingman. No. 10, B. H. Hammatt ; vice Theodore P. Foster, t'lce
Captain Blake ; William Orcutt, William Waterhouse, and A. L. Fvye, assist-
ants, vice J. H. White; E. Parkson, Jr., clerk, vice C. E. Swasey. No. 11,
C. F. Kupper and Henry Noyes, vice J. J. Eaton, assistant; Edward Wig-
glesworth, clerk. No. 12, G. W. Bird, vice Theodore C. Allen, vice Cap-
tain Wheeler ; William Jewett, assistant ; William B. Hunting, clerk.
No. 13, James Quinn, vice Captain Osgood; William Watt, J. L. Drew,
assistants, vice F. C. Putnam ; E. Noyes, clerk. No. 14, July 7, John Ball
was appointed foreman, vice Captain Wales, with Thomas Fernald and Thomas
Stebbins, assistants, and A. R. May, clerk, for a period of one month, when
George A. Curtis assumed command, with J. Ball and C. R. Banks as assist-
ants, and A. J. Lapenn, clerk. Ball was soon after placed in charge ; the
company at the same time voted that the name of the company be thereafter
known as "Old Cataract 14." No. 15, James L. Bai'ber, vice Captain
C. S. Clark ; Charles H. Stearns and Benjamin Gowan, assistants ; E. W.
Lothrop, clerk. No. 16, G. W. Wilkins, vice Captain Bridge ; E. L. Snow
and A. D. Thayer, assistants; T. P. Kendall, clerk. No. 17, Thomas B.
Warren, vice A. EUms, vice Captain Dwelley ; J. C. Crosby and J. Ham-
mond, assistants ; Josiah Dunhan, vice J. D. Thayer, clerk, vice W. V. Bail.
Nos. 18 and 19 disbanded on January 20, and reestablished under the follow-
ing officers : Captain, George Malcheet ; John Foster, Allen Whitman, and C.
S. Russett, assistants ; C. D. Chamberlain, clerk. No. 20, G. W. Prentice,
vice Captain Shelton ; J. R. Carleton and Henry F. Demster, assistants ; C. S.
Hunt, clerk. Ladder No. 1, J. F. Holland, clerk. Ladder No. 2, Nathaniel
L. Prince, vice Captain A¥ilkins ; N. N. Bates and James Mahoney, assist-
ants ; Timothy Carter, Jr. clerk. Twenty-one members resigned on August
13. Ward companies: No. 1, A. P. Young, vice Captain Nurse; T.
C Bacon and E. F. Fay, assistants. No. 2, Samuel Prince, vice Captain
Davis; S. Passet, Jr., and D. W- Hill, assistants; R. Resticeaux, clerk.
No. 3, George Wright, vice Captain Barnes ; Boza Lincoln and Henry
Barr}^ assistants ; G. P. Richardson, clerk. No. 5, Charles Holbrook, vice
Captain Jones ; E. F. Hall and E. K. Lyford, assistants ; E. A. Hall,
clerk. No. 6, G. L. Stearns and G. Hall, assistants ; O. Holman, clerk.
No. 7, W. B. Spooner, vice Captain Fairbanks ; W. C. Eayers, assistants ;
C. B. Hutchinson, clerk. No. 8, Joseph Lines and H. H. Goff, assistants ;
D. L. Davis, vice R. J. Brown, clerk. This company was given the com-
mand of Engine No. 11 until a company could be organized. No. 10, A.
188 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
"Whitcomb, vice Captain Tolman ; F. Curtis and Charles Trumball, assistants,
vice C. E. Andrews, F. Curtis, clerks. No. 11, F. D. Allen, vice Captain
Dana ; N. A. Thompson and W. A. Barrister, assistants ; J. M. Thomp-
son, clerk. No. 12, B.D.Baxter, vice Captain Emmons; J. L. Gorham,
assistant.
Mayor Lyman communicated to the chief, on May 19, his desire that the
reservoirs be examined, and, when necessary, filled, the city paying the ex-
penses. Twenty-nine additional reservoirs were constructed during the year,
at the following locations : Merrimac, coruer of Gouch and Lancaster
streets ; Blossom, corner of McLean and Allen streets ; Thatcher street, near
the pump; Broad, near the corner of State street; Atkinson, near High
street ; Leverett, corner of Spring street ; Mt. Vernon street, near Louis-
burg square, opposite Willow street ; Boylston, corner of Carver street ;
Dock square, between Elm and Ann streets ; Blackstone, near the corner of
Charlestown and Cross streets ; Congress, between Water and Milk streets ;
Essex, corner of Short street; Tremont, corner of passageway to Mason
street ; Somerset street, near Somerset place ; Cambridge, corner of Lynde
street ; Salem, corner of Richmond street ; Chestnut, corner of Walnut street ;
Ann, corner of Cross street ; Front, between Kneeland and Harvard streets ;
Tremont, corner of HoUis street ; Dedham, half-way between A\'^ashiugton
and Tremont streets ; Broad street, midway between Piper's wharf and Free
Bridge; Washington, corner of Northampton street ; South Boston, near the
school-house, and Engine-house 17; Washington, near Newton street; East
Boston ; and two places fixed at the land between Canal and Haverhill streets,
— one near Causeway and one near Travers street.
No event of similar character ever transpired in this country which has
been the theme of so much dissension and general conversation as the
destruction of the Ursuline Convent, iu the Charlestown district, August 1 1 ,
1834. The facts of the case, as far as we are able to learn, are as follows :
About two months previous to its destruction, rumors were afloat that several
persons were confined in the nunnery against their will ; that their friends
were denied the privilege of visiting, or even seeing them ; and that they
were subjected to tortures of an outrageous character, as a punishment for
their stubbornness and disobedience. Rumors were in circulation that one of
the nuns had suddenly disappeared in a most mysterious manner ; that the
interior arrangement of the convent was conducted in a manner not strictly
in accordance with the moral sense of the community. Now, all these things,
as is well known, only tended to create a more bitter and hostile feeling in the
minds of the citizens of Charlestown against that institution ; story, after
story was cii'culated in regard to transactions which were reported as having
transpired in the convent. The excitement ran very high at this time, yet
nothing was done by those who had control of the convent to allay it in the
slightest degree.
-» About a month before the burning of the buQding, a nun, by the name of
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 189
Harrison, made her escape from the convent at 12 o'clock, noon, and pro-
ceeded immediately to a friend*s house in Cambridge. When the bishop
learned of this fact, he proceeded to the house, aocompanied by her brother, and
had an interview, after which she consented to return, on the promise that
she should be released with honor in two or three weeks. By some means, it
was alleged, this promise was not kept ; and when these facts came to the
knowledge of the citizens of Charlestown, they had handbills of the most
exciting character posted up throughout the vicinity, calling a meeting of
the citizens to take into consideration the best course to be pursued in relation
to the matter. So great was the excitement that the selectmen of the town,
in order to preserve order and allay all trouble, proceeded to the nunnery
for the purpose of investigating the truth of the matter. On ringing the
bell, they were asked their business, and, when they stated their errand, were
told that, if they attempted to enter within the convent, she (the lady
superior) would give the alarm, and have the bishop notified, who would
bring twenty thousand Irishmen, to pull their houses down over their heads.
Two other visits were paid by the saiBe gentlemen, but with the same result.
They finally had an interview with the bishop, and arrangements were made
for them to visit the nunnery on Monday, the 11th of August.
In the mean time, the excitement had been increased by flaring handbills,
which had been posted in every direction, calling upon the citizens to assem-
ble at the square in Charlestown, and further declaring that the selectmen
would not be allowed to enter the nunnery ; that Miss Harrison would not
be set at liberty ; and it was time the citizens should take the matter into
their own hands, etc. The time appointed for the selectmen's visit to the
convent was at three o'clock in the afternoon, from which time they were
occupied within the convent until after six o'clock. They had a long con-
versation with the lady superior and Miss Harrison. When they retired it
was too late to issue circulars containing full particulars of the result of this
interview, giving such account of their visit as would allay the excitement
then existing in the minds of the public.
About eleven o'clock on Monday night a large fire was made by burning
several tar barrels upon the highest point of a hill in the vicinity of the
building. Soon after, a party of from fifty to one hundred men, disguised with
masks and fantastic dresses and painted faces, assembled in front of the
building, and, after informing the inmates of the object of their visit, they
gave them half an hour to pack up their baggage and effects and leave the
convent, after which they retired a short distance from the place, to consult
further with one another as to the best course to pursue in order to accomplish
their purpose. When the time allowed the nuns to enable them to vacate had
expired, and seeing no appearance of their intention to comply with the
request, they commenced an assault upon the building. Some of the nuns
were placed in carriages and taken to such place as they desired, some who
190 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
were bacll}^ frightened retreated, taking with them some of the children. They
left by the rear door, passing through the gtirden.
The distress and terror of the scenes were heightened by the solicitude
of the nuns for one of their number who was confined to her bed by a dis-
ease from which she was not expected to recover. The assailants in the
mean time had forced open the doors and windows of the edifice, and re-
moved most of the furniture, among which were three pianos, a harp, and other
musical instruments, into the garden, where they were destroyed. At about
half-past twelve o'clock the building was set on fire in the second story of the
western wing, and in a few hours it was entirely destroyed. The chapel, the
bishop's lodge, the stable, and the old nunnery, a large wooden building sit-
uated a short distance from the convent, were set on fire and burnt in a short
time. The work of destruction continued until daylight, when the mob dis-
persed, and all that remained of the famous Ursuline Convent was the black-
ened walls and smouldering ruins.
The burning of the main building, which was eighty feet long ahd four
stories high, occupied about two hours. Among the other buildings were a
farmhouse and a cottage. Tlie inmates of the convent consisted of the lady
superior, six nuns, three female attendants, and from fifty to sixty children
who had been placed there for instruction, by their friends, many of whom
were Protestants.
After the main building had been fired, an alarm of fire was given, and the
firemen, with their engines, from Boston, Cambridge, Chelsea, and other near
limits, repaired at once to the scene, but were prevented from throwing
water on the flames.
A meeting of the citizens of Boston, by notification of the Mayor, was
held on Tuesday following, at one o'clock, at Faneuil Hall. The hall was
crowded to suffocation. After a brief address by His Honor, stating the object
of the meeting, JosiahQuincy, Jr., Hon. H. G. Otis, and George Bond, Esq.,
addressed the meeting. After several speeches, the following resolutions
were offered by Colonel Quincy, and adopted : —
Resolved, That, in the opinion of the citizens of Boston, the late attack on the
Ursuline Convent in Charlestown, occupied only by defenceless females, was a base and
cowardly act, for which the perpetrators deserve the contempt and detestation of the com-
munity.
Resolved, That the destruction of property, and danger of life caused thereby, call
loudly on all good citizens to express, individually and collectively, the abhorrence they feel
of this higli-handed violation of the laws.
Resolved, That we, the Protestant citizens of Boston, do pledge ourselves, collec-
tively and individually, to unite with our Catholic brethren in protecting their persons,
their property, and their civil and religious rights.
Resolved, That the Mayor and Aldermen be requested to take all measures con-
sistent with law to carry the foregoing resolutions into effect; and as citizens we tender our
personal services to support the laws, under the direction of the city authorities.
Resolved, That the Mayor be requested to nominate a committee from the citizens
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 191
at large, to investigate the proceedings of last night, and to adopt every suitable ruode to
bring the authors and abettors of this outrage to justice.
The following committee was nominated by the Mayor : —
H. G. Otis, J. D. Williams, James Austin, Henry Lee, James Clark,
Cyrus Alger, John Henshaw, F. J. Oliver, Mark Healey, C. G. Loring,
C. G. Green, Isaac Harris, T. H. Perkins, JohnRaynor, Henry Gassett, D. D.
Broadhead, Noah Brooks, H, F. Baker, Z. Cook, Jr., George Darracott,
Samuel Hubbard, Henry Farnham, B. F. Hallett, J. K. Simpson, John Cot-
ton, Benjamin Rich, William Sturgis, and Charles P. Curtis.
On motion of Mr. George Bond, the committee of twenty-eight were
requested to consider the expediency of providing funds to repair the dam-
age done to the convent and other buildings.
On motion of John C. Park. Esq., it was
Resolved, That the Mayor be authorized and requested to offer a very liberal
reward to any individual who, in case of further excesses, will arrest and bring to pun-
ishment any leader in such outrages.
THEODORE LYMAN, Jr., Chairman.
ZEBEDEE COOK, Jr., Secretary.
There appeared in the papers of the next morning a card from the select-
men of Charlestown, giving an account of their visit to the nunnery, and their
interview.
192 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTER Y.
1835-1842.
THE department was thrown into a state of dissension during 1835, more so
than ever since the reorganization. This condition was brought around
by the following resolutions, passed by a committee of the Common Council : —
Resolved, That the salary now allowed and paid to the chief engineer be discon-
tinued after the acceptance of the resignation of the present incumbent by the Board of
Aldermen.
Resolved^ That there be appointed a superintendent of the fire apparatus, whose duty
it shall be to keep all the books, collect all bills, and perform all duties required of him
by the engineers, who shall receive for his service such compensation as may be appointed
by the City Council.
This measure was the result of the dissatisfaction of associated engineers,
who were not willing to serve gratuitously under a paid superior, clothed with
absolute power in all matters relating to the department, leaving no voice in
anything relating to the service to his associates, who had always to abide by
his decision. Chief Amory resigned on January 23, and was succeeded on the
26th by William H. Tileston. The aim of the Board of Engineers was to have
the above resolutions go into effect at once, but a committee on the depart-
ment was chosen from the City Council to thoroughly investigate the
matter, after doing which they reported, on May 4, to the effect that the sys-
tem ought not to be changed, that it was the choice of the citizens, and had
given every satisfaction. This report led to a lengthy discussion by the engi-
neers, who claimed it an injustice to their office to have a salaried officer, with
the same powers as possessed by the former chiefs, placed at their head ; but
despite their hard struggle for the cause the}'^ failed, and on February 2 the
following assistant engineers were appointed : John Hammond, Henry Smith,
David Kimball, George M. Smith, W. G. Eaton, Asa Swallow, James G. San-
derson, R. A. Newell, C. S. Clark, John Shelton, T. Hasburn, Henry Curtis,
Rufus R. Cook, Thomas B. Warren, AVilliam Eaton, and Edward Wiggles-
worth.
At a meeting of the officers of the department, held May 29, it was re-
solved that they would support the Board of Engineers at all times in the dis-
charge of their duty, and that their denunciation of the system was " an open
and manly exposition of facts, and that the principles therein set forth meet
with an unqualified approval." They also severely condemned the conduct
of " certain members of Engine Company 7, in their contemptible effort to
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 193
prostitute the hard-earned fame " of Assistant Engineer William G. Eaton,
who, on August 24, sent in his resignation, solely on account of the unjust
treatment he had received. Engine Company 8 surrendered their engine on
August 3, on account of the severity of the ordinance, which, they claimed,
was only fit for slaves, not for freemen who were giving their services to
the city for such a slight recompense as they received. Another reason was
the want of a suitable building.
An engine was ordered to be placed at East Boston on January 19, and
numbered 11, and Guy C. Haynes given the command. A new engine was
ordered on May 18 for Engine 14, the old one being condemned; and a new
suction-engine was also ordered, to take the place of No. 5. June 8, two new
suction-engines were ordered, to take the places of New York, No. 7, and
Boston, No. 15. On the arrival of Engine No. 7, on September 28, the com-
pany was allowed to change the name from New York to Tiger, No. 7,
Almost all the members of No. 14 resigned, and those who remained being
charged with insubordination, a new company was reorganized on September
21st, under the command of Ephraim L. Snow. The name was changed,
on October 5th, from old Cataract Engine No. 14 to Lion Engine No. 14.
Engine Company No. 17 was also in difficulty, for disobedience of orders.
It was settled, however, on December 21, by the suspension of the second
officer. Ladder Company 2 petitioned for a new building on October 17, they
complaining that they should be allowed as good accommodations as Ladder
1, which company had just been furnished with a handsome, new ladder*
house. A contract was made with Hunneman & Co. for an engine for No.
18, to be ready in January, 1837, at a cost of $850.
A committee from the engineers being formed to procure coats for that
body to wear while at fires, made a contract with the Boston and India Rub-
ber Company, whereby each member of the board was furnished with a coat
highly recommended by the corporation as impervious to water ; but on trial
they were found to be of no value, and were, according to the agreement,
returned. Coats of pilot-cloth were then made, which proved entirely satis-
factory, the cost being $232.
The schooner " Sarah," lying at a certain w^harf in this city, was, on
Saturday, August 22, 1835, blown to atoms. The cause of the explosion
was a mystery, and created quite a public discussion, some claiming that it
was the saltpetre with which the vessel was loaded, while others claimed that
this was an impossibility, as that article in its virgin state could not explode,
and that the explosion was caused by gunpowder. The Board of Engineers
held an investigation, and reported, September 1, that their opinion was
strongly ih favor of the guupow^der theory, as they could find no authority, or
even a single instance, where saltpetre in the state in which it was carried on
board the schooner could explode.
A fire of considerable magnitude occurred on May 19, the ensuing year.
It originated in the carpenter-shop of Messrs. Stetson & Smith, on Black-
194 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
stone street. The flames extended to several adjoining shops, and a stable
occupied by a Mr. Simmons, all of which, with, their contents, were con-
sumed. All the buildings between Blackstone, Cross, and Pond streets
were entirely destroyed. On the opposite side of Pond street, the Massa-
chusetts Hotel and several other buildings were badly damaged, and the
livery-stable of Mr. Davis was laid in ashes. All the buildings on the west
side of Salem street, from Cross to Hanover streets, with but one exception
were consumed, and many other buildings badly damaged. Loss, $70,000.
At this fire, engines from Chelsea, Charlestown, Cambridge, Roxbury, and
other neighboring towns rendered assistance, for which they were thanked by
the City Council. Engine 13 drafted and played on the fire through eleven
hundred and fifty feet of hose.
On the recommendation of Mayor Lyman, February 14th, the order
passed by the Board of Engineers at the time of the burning of the convent,
the year previous, forbidding any of the apparatus of this department from
leaving the city, was abrogated until a general and uniform agreement was
made. Assistant Engineer John Hammond was chosen chief pro tern, on the
resignation of Chief Tileston.
Changes of officers for 1835 : Engine 1, M. A. Straw, vice Captain Hol-
lis ; Thomas Hammond, Jr., and A. Mair, assistants; W. H. Foule, vice
J. R. Farrington, vice I. B. Smith, clerk. No. 2, Samuel Prince, vice Cap-
tain Munroe ; Samuel Bassett, Jr., and D. W. Hill, assistants, vice T. C.
Gould, R. Resticeaux, Jr., vice Da^^d Marden, Jr., clerk. No. 3, A. H.
Campbell, vice Captain French ; J. M. Merrill and T. Bagnell, Jr., assistants ;
S. Punchard, clerk. No. 4, W. C. Webster, vice Captain Glover ; William
Morse and R. S. May, assistants ; S. P. Greenwood, clerk. No. 5, E. J.
Titcomb, vice John White, Jr., vice Captain Damrill ; C. A. Somerby and
A. R. May, assistants, vice John Borrowscale, A. H. Fletcher, vice A. S.
Lewis, clerk. No. 7, Pelham W. Haywood, vice Captain Williams ; J. H.
Colburn, clerk. No. 8, H. H. Drayton, vice Captain Briesler ; F. Richards
and William Humphrey, assistants ; J. A. Drayton, clerk. No. 9, J. B.
Anderson and A. H. Bean, assistants ; B. W. Hall, clerk. No. 10, J. A.
Norris, vice Captain Hammatt ; S. P. Gorham and J. H. White, assistants,
vice Henry Ide ; C. E. Swasey, clerk. No. 11, at East Boston, T. C. Allen,
vice Captain Boyd ; F- A. Bailey and D. French, assistants ; A. Ben-
son, clerk. No. 13, Joseph Southark and J. P. Clark, assistants ; W. H.
Peirce, clerk. No. 14, E. L. Snow, vice Captain Ball ; Thomas H. Stebbins
and W. W. Classen, assistants; G. W. Billings, clerk. No. 16, A. Walcott,
and W. Lewis, assistant; T. P. Kendall, clerk. No. 17, George Page, vice
Captain Warren ; J. C. Crosby and J. Young, assistants ; W. B. Brooks,
clerk. No. 18, and 19, J. L. Roberts, vice Captain Matchett ; Harlow Har-
den, Jr., and C. P. Gould, assistants; A. S. Davis, clerk. No. 20, disbanded
on May 6, organized May 22. Joseph Carlton, vice Captain Prentice ; J. G.
Hardy and G. W. Prentice, assistants; Joel Powers, clerk. Ladder 1, L.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 195
V. E,. Moore, vice Captain Jacobs ; A. Stone and Reuben Ridler, assist-
ants ; T. P. Carvers, clerk. Ladder 2, James N. Mooney, vice Captain
Prince ; Edward Cassidy, G. W. Marsh, assistants. Ward companies : No.
3, L. L. Bates, clerk. No. 6, J. Lincoln, clerk. No. 7, W. C. Eayers,
vice Captain Spooner ; W. B. Parmeuter, assistant; A. Watkins, Jr., clerk.
No. 10 changed their name, on January 27, to the Amory Fire Company,
No. 10, in honor of ex-Chief Amory. The company disbanded on June 19.
T. J. Hobbs, assistant, A. L. Denison, clerk. No. 12, J. P. Fairbanks and
J. Drew, assistants ; J. L. Fairbanks, clerk. Company resigned June 19.
The names of these companies were Brooks 1, Quincy 4, Melville 5, Otis
6, Tremont 7, Franklin 8, Amory 10, Boylston 11, and Vesuvius 12. Those
of numbers 2, 3, and 9 we could not learn.
Five hundred dollars additional were added to the annual appropriation of
the city to the charitable association on February 8, 1836, after the expiration
of which time Si, 000 were annually given it. Mr. Hammond resigned his
office as acting chief of the department, and Mr. William Barnicoat was nomi-
nated chief on February 15, and on the 29th the following gentlemen were
appointed engineers : Messrs. Henry Smith, James Sanderson, Richard A.
Newell, Charles S. Clark, John Shelton, Theodore AVashburn, Thomas B.
Warren, James Barry, John Green, Henry Towle, Peter C. Jones, T. A.
Williams, G. W. Wilkins, and Lewis Dennis. The only names of firemen
that we can trace during the years 1836-37 are those on Engine No. 7.
Thomas Cassidy succeeded Captain Heywood during 1836, and Jonathan
Hayes was appointed to that position during 1837.
Seven thousand dollars were ordered to be paid for the exclusive use of
engine-houses, which sum was withdrawn from the appropriation for the
purchase of land for one school-house and the erection of two school-houses
at the South End. A new engine and house were ordered, on April 25, for
No. 3, while No. 9 was suspended, on December 5, for disorderly conduct.
Engine-house 15, on Commercial street, was removed back to the line of the
street, September 19. The house of Ladder 2 was taken down January
18, and the apparatus removed and stored in a building on Tremont street,
near the Johnson school. Otis Munroe and others were given charge of
Engine No. 1, which was without a company for some time.
All the apparatus in the service was inspected on September 29 and 30,
resulting in the following report: Engines Nos. 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14, 15,
16, 17, and 20 were in good condition ; 12 was commanded by a company of
volunteers ; 2 undergoing repairs, but had a full company ; 4, at West Boston
bridge, was removed to that house and a company formed ; No. 8, on
Tremont, near the junction of AVashington street, in good repair, but without
a company for a long time, — one was soon to be organized; No. 9 being
repaired, also No. 11, at East Boston ; No. 18 was complained of as being too
heavy and unmanageable for the crowded and paved streets, was not used, and
was for sale ; an ordinary engine was temporarily used in its place, but a new
196 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
engine was already ordered. Expenses for the year : Engine-houses, $8,000 ;
reservoirs, $10,000 ; repairs of houses and other expenses, $15,000. Reser-
voirs filled, one each on Thatcher street and Louisburg square, the one at the
corner of State and Broad streets being filled by the tide at every flood ; the
whole number of reservoirs in the city being thirty-nine. The department
consisted of one hose company, with four carriages, and one thousand and six
hundred feet of hose, the house being in Franklin place, — here, also, were
from four to six hundred feet of extra hose, to be attached to each of the
several engines ; nineteen engines, three hook-and-ladder carriages, with
ladders and hooks, the third being organized during the year ; twenty -three
hose-carriages, nine thousand aud four hundred feet of hose, five hundred and
nine feet of suction-hose ; a chief engineer, thirteen assistant engineers, a
clerk to the chief engineer, and one thousand three hundred and thirty-seven
firemen.
Besides several minor fires, slight fires were extinguished in the Brattle-
street Church and Grace Church.
A number of new engine-houses were ordered during 1837. House No. 8
was built on a lot in the rear of Johnson school, on Tremont street, on Feb-
ruary 10 ; and April 3d, the company changed the name from " Cumberland"
to "Tremont." No. 1 was ordered to be sold, on April 17, aud a new
engine built at a cost of $7o0. No. 12 was granted a new house on
the southerly portion of land connected with the Franklin school-house.
Engine No. 2 was repaired and placed at South Boston, May 22. June
12, No. 4 was allowed new quarters. No. 14 was not put in commission, as
it was thought unnecessary. To carry out the expenses incurred by these
contracts, $3,500 were taken, on February 13, from the appropriation for
repairs to the House of Correction. On March 30 $3,000 additional were
appropriated by the city, and on September 18 $25,000 were ordered to be
borrowed.
Additional rules and regulations were made for the government of the
department during the year ; one of which was a list of neighboring towns to
which the engines of Boston were allowed to render service. Dorchester was a
disputed territory, but was embraced in the list after a considerable discus-
sion. On October 16 a sum equal to the poll-tax was ordered to be paid each
member who served for the period of one year.
On the petition of Messrs. Downer, Austin, & Co., Engine 16 was re-
turned, on April 17, to its former stand on Fort Hill, and a company organized.
An alarm-bell was placed on the engine-house. No. 11, at East Boston, Feb-
ruary 27, and the Common Council ordered, on July 29, the establishment of
a corporation yard for the repairing of engines, etc.
Engineers appointed for 1837 were : Henry Smith, J. G. Sanderson, R.
A. Newell, C. S. Clark, J. Shelton, T. Washburn, T. B. Warren, J. Green,
H. Towle, P. G. Jones, T. A. Williams, and G. W. Wilkins. The only
engine company to get into trouble during the year was No. 7, — it being dis-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 197
banded on Jul}' 17 for disobeying the rules, and passing resolutions to perse-
vere in so doing.
The story of the famous riot that occurred on Broad street and vicinitjs
Sunday afternoon, June 10, 1837, is «jue quite difficult to tell, as there are
so many conflicting statements. From the testimonies given at the trial of
those arrested as principals in the affair we glean the following : The com-
pany attached to Engine 20 had just housed their apparatus, after returning
from a fire in Roxbury, and about twelve members were in the house. One
of them, George Fay, went to purchase a cigar, and on his return, with it in his
mouth, he passed down Broad to the foot of East street, where an Irish funeral
procession was being formed. The participants in the procession were on
both sides of the street, and covered the sidewalk. Fay tried to pass on the
curb-stone, and by accident jostled some one, who immediately shoved him
into the street, with the remark that " he had no business on the street," fol-
lowing it up with an effort to strike him. Fay got up and struck back.
Several witnesses of the scene, standing on East street, came to help him, and
were soon joined by the members of the engine. Mr. Miller, the third officer,
went out and called his men back to the house, which order they immediately
obeyed, but were followed up \>y their enemies, and several members badly
beaten. He ordered out the engine, and the bell to be rung for fire, and then
went for help. The funeral procession had formed, and proceeded down
Broad street. Engine company 9, on their way to what they supposed, from
the alarm, to be a fire, turning the foot of Summer street with their usual
rush, came suddenly upon the rear of the procession, but did not touch them ;
but no sooner had the mourners beheld the engine company than they left the
ranks and immediately repaired to the wood-pile in the vicinity, and then the
row began in earnest, at the head of J. Robinson's wharf. Engine companies
6 and 14, who arrived, were attacked by the increased force of Irishmen, and
the firemen were badlj'^ beaten, and driven from their engines. They, however,
quickly rallied, and, with additional numbers, drove their foes down Broad
street.
A rush was made by the Irishmen to obtain possession of Purchase street,
and attack the enginemen by showering down stones, etc., upon them from
the more elevated position. But they were pressed upon and driven back by
their opponents, who rushed up from the intervening streets and alleys, at
manifest disadvantage, and, regardless of life and limb, drove them back
step by step, sometimes retreating when their foes rallied or their ammuni-
tion ( ?) was expended, but again gaining their ground until the latter were
driven into Broad street, beyond the corner of Purchase street. A house in
Purchase street, near Gibb's lane, where several of their opponents had
taken refuge and from where some missiles were thrown, was attacked and its
windows broken ; but the principal work of destruction was carried on near
the junction of this street with Broad street and the immediate vicinity.
Assistant Engineer Wilkins, being in his store, saw the head of the pro-
198 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
cession proceeding towards old Broad street, and supposed from the dust raised
that the fire was near by. When he came to where the contending parties were
advancing upon each other, he held up his engineer's badge, and called to the
firemen to " hold on," at the same time directed the Irishmen to " keep back."
Both parties then stopped. But the Irishmen again returned to the charge
with shouts and yells, and the firemen were driven back. . When Engineer
Wilkius first arrived on the "scene, he did not know the extent of the difficulty,
and observed to the enginemen that their antagonists would not meddle with
them, and directed them to proceed down Broad street toward State street, then
to separate, and each company to take their engine home. They proceeded on
in obedience to this order ; No. 6 being ahead, was immediately attacked, the
men were driven from the ropes, the bell broken, and other parts of the engine
injured, and the apparatus itself remained in the hands of the assailants six or
seven minutes.
A gang of stout boys and loafers, who had followed the firemen at such
distance that 'chey might be protected from the dangers, and at the same time
participate in the mischief of the affray, attacked the houses of the Irish in
the rear of the scene of the combat, tearing to pieces and destroying every-
thing wantonly and recklessly. The houses were sacked, their contents
thrown into the streets, and everything demolished as speedily as possible.
Feather-beds were ripped open, and their contents thrown out of the windows ;
the fine feathers, wafted by the wind, being blown to a considerable distance.
Money was stolen, stores broken open and contents destroyed and appro-
priated, and the most wanton spite displayed in all these depi-edatious ; and
what makes these acts more shameful was. that most of those who had suffered
the loss of their little worldly goods were entirely ignorant of the cause of their
suffering, taking no pai't whatever in the riot. A number of Irishmen who
had concealed themselves in the cellars were dragged out and severely beaten
with clubs and sticks. In fact, everything was in the hands of the mob. The
only redeeming spirit shown by these miscreants was their conduct towards
the women and children, who were let out unmolested, no one offering them
harm or insult.
The Mayor was soon on the ground, and adopted, as soon as possible,
measures to assemble the militia. The volunteer corps were ordered to
assemble at Faneuil Hall ; but the members were so dispersed — a large
portion of them spending the day in neighboring towns — that it was not
until six o'clock that a sufficient force could be mustered, when a strong
detachment of infantry, led by the Lancers, under General Davis, marched
into Broad street ; and the Irish party having by this time been driven into
their houses, and about fifty being lodged in jail, the violence of the riot was
exhausted. The street was soon cleared of all who did not reside there,
and the military took charge by forming a cordon by posting guards at the
various avenues. The citizens to the number of about ten thousand, who had
been attracted by the flying reports, gradually dispersed, and quietness once
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 199
more prevailed. The military continued on duty all night. The Mayor took
the precaution to place a guard at every church in the city, to prevent any
false alarm that might arise during the night, with a tendency to renew the
affray. The Washington Light Infantry, the Boston Light Infantry, the Rifle
Rangers, the New England Guards, the City Guards, the Lafayette Guards,
the Montgomery Guards, the Winslow Blues, the Mechanics' Riflemen, and the
Independent Fusiliers were on duty all nighc, and the City Guards were left
in charge of Faneuil Hall the next morning. Fortunatel}' no person was
killed ; but the number of wounded will never be known. Mr. Charles Sears,
formerly captain of Ladder Company 2, was probably the most severe, he
being knocked down on the wharf and surrounded by eight or ten of the
Irish party, and almost beaten to death, after which he was about to be thrown
overboard, but one of their number prevented the bloodshed. Mr. Barnes, of
Engine 1, and Mr. John Russell, assistant foreman of Engine 10, were badly
injured ; also Capt. J. C. Tallent, of the North Watch.
The 3'ear was also remarkable for the number of attempts at incendiar-
ism. On February 14 the Franklin Hemp and Flax Factory was destroyed.
During April several efforts were made to fire the old court-house. On
Saturday, June 10, the spire of the Hollis-street church was struck by light-
ning, the flames appearing in the pinnacle of the spire, fifty or sixty feet
above the highest point at which there was any access on the outside, and far
above the reach of the inside, where there was no communication with the
spire after passing the bell-tower. The efforts of the firemen to get water on
the blaze was fruitless, although very daring attempts were made. Ex-Cap-
tain Sears, of Ladder 2, placed a ladder on the spire aboye the balcony and
cut at the vane ; the hosemen were about to ascend when the chief ordered
them down, as he saw that the top of the spire, with the vane and ball, and an
iron shaft, fifteen feet long, was about to fall ; they had just got to a place
of safety when it came down with a crash. After that the firemen were
enabled to put out the fire. June 9, the Needham Hat Factory was burnt. A
shed attached to a dwelling at 48 Elliot street was set fire, on the 8th and 9th.
Saturday, 10th, a number of alarms were given for incendiaries, among them
being an attempt on the Park-street church, the fire being ignited in one of
the pews. Two stables located at Roxbury were set on fire the next day.
July 3, an endeavor was made to burn the State-House.
The orders and by-laws issued by the city from time to time were, on
July 29, the ensuing year, under the administration of Mayor Samuel A.
Eliot, combined under one ordinance, entitled "An act for preventing and
extinguishing fires and establishing a fire department." On October 23
" twenty-seven rules and regulations for the Hose, Hook-and-Ladder, and
other companies attached to the Boston Fire Department" were established.
Few of these orders were entirely new to the members (see volume 1838 to
1849 of the Engineer's Report for unabridged entries). In them we find that
no pei'son not a citizen of the United States could be admitted a member of
200 HISTORY OF BOSTOX FIRE DEPARTMENT.
the department ; substitutes were to be provided by any member absent from
the city forty-eight hours, or who was sick. No person was to be engaged
in the department for a shorter period than six months ; if he leave before
this time he was to forfeit all compensation duo him.
The following engines were permitted to leave the city when a fire occurred
out of town : Nos. 3 and 10, to Charlestown ; No. 15, to Chelsea ; 13 and 16,
to Cambridge ; 12 and 8, to Roxbury ; and 20 and 1 7, to Dorchester. No other
company, or hose or hook-and-ladder company, was to leave on any considera-
tion, unless ordered by the engineer. Engine companies were not allowed to
run races on returning from fires, and the use of rattles, horns, and all un-
necessary noises, and the smoking of pipes or cigars, were strictly forbidden.
Members were responsible for their badges or any other article ; and if lost,
the cost was deducted from their salary.
The engines not in use during 1838 were Nos. 1, 4, old 10, Tiger 7, and
Boston 15. The first three were stored under the Hancock school-house, the
next in its quarters at Water street, while Nos. 7 and 15 were in the old
Franklin school-house, on Common street. Constant attention was paid to
these engines, so as to render them ready for use at any moment. No. 2 was
at South Boston, in charge of a company organized for that part of the city
only. No. 16, which took the former coiiipany's name, was changed on
January 8 from Torrent to Eliot, and was in charge of Company No. 15, and
old 15 was sent to the Houses of Correction and Industry. There were three
bucket-carriages in the service, having a combined capacity of one hundred
and twelve buckets. All the engine companies were permitted, on April 2, to
employ a horse to assist in drawing the apparatus when the streets were in
such a condition from rain, etc., that theii' progress was impeded.
On March 5 the Mayor signed a petition to the Legislature in aid of the
bill of the members of the department in relation to the funds of the Charita-
ble Firemen's Association. The pay of the stewards of the engines was, on
February 12, asked to be increased to $100 per year. On April 2 a wooden
building was erected on Tremont street for the storage of the unused ap-
paratus then housed in Franklin place. It was agreed, on September 17, by
the committee, that the compensation of members discharged for neglect of
duty be forfeited.
The records of the appointment of company commanders from 1835 to
1858 are lost. No data exists with which we may obtain a list of those who
had charge of the apparatus during this time. The ward company records
must also remain a blank from this cause, as the printed reports of the
engineers (the first volume of which, issued during the ensuing year, can
be found at the Chief Engineer's office at City Hall) give no mention of these
companies. We believe, however, that they were all disbanded a few years
later. The officers of the engines for 1838 were : Washington, No. 3, Enoch
H. Snelling, captain ; A. R. Campbell, assistant ; C. F. Benson, steward ;
J. W. Ingraham, clerk. Lyman, No* 5, Artemus Ward, captain; J. K.
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIBE BEPABTMENT. 201
Hayes, assistant; W. A. Gorbam, steward; Otis C. Norcross, clerk.
No. 6, Wyatt Richards, captain ; F. B. Winters, assistant ; J. B. Nason,
steward; William Learnard, clerk. Howard, No. 7, William S. Damrell,
captain ; Joseph Moriarty, assistant ; George Runkin, steward ; I. T. Smith,
clerk. Tremont, No. 8, William Keith, captain ; J. C. Hubbard, assistant ;
Isaiah Bowman, steward ; Joseph Curtis, clerk. Despatch, No. 9, Jonas
Fitch, captain ; J. L. Sperry, assistant ; Andrew McPhail, steward ; B. E.
Cotting, clerk. Hancock, No. 10, David Parker, captain; Jonas Forristall,
assistant; C. P. Gould, steward ; Fred Taylor, clerk. Maverick, No. 11,
Eliazer Johnson, captain ; Hosea Sargent, assistant ; W. C. Fortune, stew-
ard ; Samuel Brown, clerk. Eagle, No. 12, James Barry, captain; R. Love-
joy, assistant ; James Ayers, steward ; James Sargent, clerk. Melville, No.
13, William V. Kent, captain ; George Everett, assistant ; J. J. Frank,
steward ; William Jepson, clerk. Eliott, No. 15, Jotham B. Monroe, captain ;
John Gushing, assistant; T. W. Baxter, steward; AVilliam Hawes, clerk.
Mazeppa, No. 17, John D. Munn, captain ; William Babsou, assistant ; Edward
Hudson, steward ; Ira Drew, clerk. Lafayette, No. 18, Artemus Hammond,
captain; Charles H. Keith, assistant; Fred Lane, steward; I.P.Rankin,
clerk. Extinguisher, No. 20, Nahum Brigham, captain ; Joseph Arnold, assist-
ant ; Jotham Twitchell, steward ; Tisdale Drake, clerk. Hancock Ladder,
No. 1, Joshua Jacobs, Jr., captain; H. Whittington, assistant; John Peak,
steward ; T. P. Carver, clerk. City Hose Co., No. 1, T. P. Foster, captain ;
J. W. Pierce, assistant ; J. N. Randall, steward ; E. R. Wormwood, clerk.
The department was called out during this year one hundred and five
times ; loss of property, $32,052 ; $20,138 being covered by insurance. On
May 29, a man in a building at the corner of Suffolk and Canal streets was
burned to death. Forty-nine reservoirs, holding from three to four hundred
hogsheads of water, filled from the nearest building by conduits, were placed
in convenient parts of the city. They were so situated as to allow three
engines to draw water at the same time. Besides the above, there were thirty-
three fire-plugs in the aqueducts, the location being designated by a tin sign
placed on the nearest building. Twelve wells and ponds were also used to
take water from in case of fire.
On February 11, 1839, a small building was ordered to be erected on a
vacant lot in the vicinity of Dedham and Canton streets, at an expense
not to exceed $300, for the accommodation of one of the three engines in com-
mission. A petition was sent to the City Council, praying for an additional
engine for East Boston ; but the committee decided, on March 11 , that the dis-
trict was sufficiently protected. Engine Company No. 11 was disbanded Feb-
ruary 11, on account of constant disturbances and quarrels among themselves.
Messrs. Carlisle Brown, William Walters, and others, were given charge of
the engine on the 18th. The old company was dissatisfied, and asked for an
investigation ; but the committee would not retract their orders, and the new
company continued in service. Assistant Engineer William Barnicoat was ap-
202 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
pointed chief engineer on August 12, and Messrs. Henry Smith, Gr. San-
derson, R. A. Newell, C. S. Clark, J. Shelton, T. Washburne, T. B. Warren,
J. Green, H. Towle, P. C. Jones, and T. A. Williams were appointed assistant
engineers.
Changes in the officers for 1839 : Engine No. 3, S. W. Nichols, assistant ;
A. Norton, clerk. No. 5, Otis Norcross, assistant; A. B. Butterfield, clerk.
No. 6, Vera Coneday, steward. No. 7, Thomas P. Foster, captain; George
Ellis, assistant. No. 9, George W. Bird, assistant. No. 10, Fred Taylor,
captain; Charles HoUis, assistant; Joseph Leonard, clerk. No. 11, W. E.
Bickford, clerk. No. 12, Otis Bnllard, assistant; A. W. Jones, clerk. No.
13, Pelham Bonney, captain ; William Jepson, assistant ; William Cooley,
steward; A. C. Hobbs, clerk. No. 15, John Cushing, captain; Cornelius
Turner, assistant. No. 17, Isaac B. Kimball, captain; Joseph Tilton, as-
sistant; D. B. Haynes, steward, Leander Hilton, clerk. No. 18, Charles H.
Keith, captain ; Thomas Gooding, assistant ; Benjamin Thurston, steward ; F.
A. Colburn, clerk. No. 20, Aaron Walcott, assistant ; J. W. Ferrin, steward.
Ladder 1, Clement Stetson, clerk. Hose 1, John W. Pierce, captain; J. N.
Randall, assistant ; Lorenzo Ames, clerk.
Only ninety-six alarms were sounded during the year. Property destroyed
amounted to $140,004, $61,714 being placed in insurance policies; the
largest conflagration being on January 24, when the foundry of Messrs.
Turner & Haskill, on Haverhill street, was burnt, from which it communicated
to the following buildings, all of which were destroyed : Haverhill street —
Messrs. Hayes, Drew, Barnard & Trull, Charles Bates, Robinson & Sinclair,
E. &.E. Downer, R. Barker, Bowker, Samuel Curtis, J. Ritchie, and William
Shears. Corner Market square and Beverly street — Hill and Chamberlain.
Beverly street — Peak & Johnson, J. Stevens, Hutchinson, E. Russell, Wil-
liam Brown, S. Howland, J. Hall, S. G. Underbill, Carey & Boynton, P.
Boynton, Mr. Pope. Charlestown street — Harlow & Bowker, Mr. Hartshorn.
Cooper street — Sundry persons, Rejmolds & Co. Endicott street — Catholic
Society, T. Winchester, Whiteman & Newell. Market square — S. H.
Jennings, P. Deturbee, and other losses, making a total of moi-e than $70,440.
The night of the fire was extremely cold, and the firemen suffered severely,
many of them being badly frost-bitten, and several of the engines were frozen
up. A large quantity of hay was destroyed by the fire.
On April 26, the Howard-street House, on Howard street, owned by Dr.
Walker, was discovered on fire at about a quarter after one o'clock in the
morning, and so rapid did it gain headway that the inmates barely escaped
with their lives ; loss, $5,700.
Another large fire occurred on September 10, when the stable attached to
the City Tavern, Brattle street, was destroyed, with fourteen horses. The
Brattle-street church was injured by this fire, as were several other buildings.
On March 3, 1840, Engine Companies Nos. 3 and 10 were censured by
the City Council for leaving the city and going to East Cambridge, in viola-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 203
tiou of the rules of the department, because they saw a heavy smoke. Attested
copies of the ordiuauces were then ordered to be sent to every engine-house
in the service. Application was made to the Council, on May 11, to reduce the
number of assistant engineers, but they declined to act in the matter. The
engine at East Boston was ordered to remain on the island, and not leave
unless expressly sent for by the engineer. The company was allowed half
the pay of the regular members. The order permitting horses to assist in
drawing engines to fires was rescinded on March 9.
Thomas B. Warren resigned his position as a member of the Board of
Engineers for 1840, and the vacancy was not filled. The change of officers
for the year were: Engine 1, D. B. Fletcher, clerk. No. 5, Stephen B.
Kendall, assistant ; Levi P. Coburn, clerk. No. 6, Francis B. Winters, cap-
tain ; T. P. Bowker, assistant ; G-eorge H. Kilburn, steward ; E. L. Chaffee,
clerk. No. 7, Joseph Moriarty, assistant ; Jeremiah Stimson, steward ; G-eorge
Ellis, clerk. No. 8, Milton Hall, clerk. No. 9, John S. Kimball, steward.
No. 10, Joseph Leonard, captain ; Oliver Welsh, assistant ; George C. Jacob,
clerk. No. 11, John N. Devereux, captain ; John A. Spear, assistant; S. F.
Sanborn, clerk. No. 12, Reuben Lovejoy, captain; David Weld, assistant;
T. N. Jones, clerk. No. 13, Ezra S. Jackson, clerk. No. 15, William Hawes,
clerk; D. W. Lillie, steward. No. 17, Ira Drew, captain; J. R. Butten, as-
sistant ; Charles Gibson, steward ; John F. Abbott, clerk. No. 18, William
S. Dararell, captain ; Sylvanus Denio, assistant ; James Henry, steward. No.
20, Henry Evans, steward.
Four more reservoirs were added daring the past two years. The depart-
ment responded to one hundred and thirteen alarms during 1840, during which
time $77,973 worth of property was destroyed, $58,632 being covered by
insurance. The largest fire for the year occurred on August 1 7, when the
distillery of Gardner Brewer, on Distill-house street was destroyed ; loss,
$14,000, fully insured. On the twenty-sixth of the following month, the dis-
till-house of Messrs. Barnard & Trull on Distill-house square was destroyed ;
also the buildings of A. H. Bowman, E. Baxter, A. S. Holmes, Mrs. Moore,
D. B. Badger, R. Bradshaw, C. P. Gordon, and others ; total loss, $6,078,
May 10, 1841, Engine Company No. 11, at East Boston, was ordered to
assemble at the engine-house at every alarm of fire in any part of the city,
when the roll should be called, and, in case they saw a sufficient light to
warrant them in starting for the scene, to do so, provided it was previous to 11
o'clock at night, after which time until the morning, they were not to leave
the island unless especially sent for. But this measure was objected to by
the company, unless they received the same compensation as the other mem-
bers of the department ; the result was that the entire company was discharged
June 14, 1842, and on December 5th a new company was organized, the
' compensation being $20 per year to each member, and $50 for the steward.
The number of members of the hook-and-ladder companies was increased to
twenty-five, on June 8, 1844, at the request of the chief engineer.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 203
tiou of the rules of the department, because they saw a heavy smoke. Attested
copies of the ordinances were then ordered to be sent to every engine-house
in tlie service. Application was made to the Council, on May 11, to reduce the
number of assistant engineers, but they declined to act in the matter. The
engine at East Boston was ordered to remain on the island, and not leave
unless expressly sent for by the engineer. The company was allowed half
the pay of the regular members. The order permitting horses to assist in
drawing engines to fires was rescinded on March 9.
Thomas B. Warren resigned his position as a member of the Board of
Engineers for 1840, and the vacancy was not filled. The change of officers
for the year were; Engine 1, D. B. Fletcher, clerk. No. 5, Stephen B.
Kendall, assistant; Levi P. Coburn, clerk. No. 6, Francis B. "Winters, cap-
tain; T. P. Bowker, assistant; George H. Kilburn, steward; E. L. Chaffee,
clerk. No. 7, Joseph Moriarty, assistant ; Jeremiah Stimson, steward ; George
Ellis, clerk. No. 8, Milton Hall, clerk. No. 9, John S. Kimball, steward.
No. 10, Joseph Leonard, captain ; Oliver Welsh, assistant ; George C. Jacob,
clerk. No. 11, John N. Devereux, captain ; John A. Spear, assistant; S. F.
Sanborn, clerk. No. 12, Reuben Lovejoy, captain; David Weld, assistant ;
T. N. Jones, clerk. No. 13, EzraS. Jackson, clerk. No. 15, William Hawes,
clerk ; D. W. Lillie, steward. No. 17, Ira Drew, captain ; J. R. Butteu, as-
sistant ; Charles Gibson, steward ; John F. Abbott, clerk. No. 18, William
S. Dararell, captain ; Sylvanus Denio, assistant ; James Henr}'^, steward. No.
20, Henry Evans, steward.
Four more reservoirs were added during the past two years. The depart-
ment responded to one hundred and thirteen alarms during 1840, during which
time $77,973 worth of property was destroyed, $58,632 being covered by
insurance. The largest fire for the year occurred on August 1 7, when the
distillery of Gardner Brewer, on Distill-house street was destroyed ; loss,
$14,000, fully insured. On the twenty-sixth of the following month, the dis-
till-house of Messrs. Barnard & Trull on Distill-house square was destroyed ;
also the buildings of A. H. Bowman, E. Baxter, A. S. Holmes, Mi's. Moore,
D. B. Badger, R. Bradshaw, C. P. Gordon, and others ; total loss, $6,078.
May 10, 1841, Engine Company No. 11, at East Boston, was ordered to
assemble at the engine-house at every alarm of fire in any part of the city,
when the roll should be called, and, in case they saw a sufficient light to
warrant them in starting for the scene, to do so, provided it was previous to 11
o'clock at night, after which time until the morning, they were not to leave
the island unless especially sent for. But this measure was objected to by
the company, unless they received the same compensation as the other mem-
bers of the department ; the result was that the entire company was discharged
June 14, 1842, and on December 5th a new company was organized, the
compensation being $20 per year to each member, and $50 for the steward.
The number of members of the hook-and-ladder companies was increased to
twenty-five, on June 8, 1844, at the request of the chief engineer.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 205
1842. The changes recorded in the companies were as follows: Engine 3,
Phineas Hall, steward ; F. L. Sargent, clerk. No. 6, Benjamin I. Morrill,
captain ; George H. Kilburn, assistant ; Moses P. Moulton, clerk. No. 7,
William Brown, assistant. No. 8, Daniel Smith, clerk. No. 10, Oliver
Welch, captain ; William H. Dole, assistant ; Francis Warner, clerk. No.
12, Elisha Smith, captain; Ebeuezer Foskett, assistant; Francis Hall, Jr.,
clerk. No. 13, James F. Holland, captain ; Joseph P. Jepson, assistant.
No. 15,- Robert Taylor, assistant; Archibald Smith, steward; James E.
Spear, clerk. No. 17, John R. Butler, captain; W. G. Reed, assistant;
John Larrabee, steward ; George Thomas, clerk. No. 20, Benjamin Hosley,
assistant; Pardon Smith, steward. Ladder 1, Dennis Smith, captain; Dexter
Bowker, assistant; Samuel Jepson, clerk. Hose 1, Nathaniel Baker, cap-
tain ; William H. Barnes, assistant ; Lyman Sears, clerk.
A new ordinance was passed December 12, 1842, during the administra-
tion of Mayor Jonathan Chapman, whereby it was ordered that the number of
assistant engineers may be reduced to six whenever the City Council should
so dispose ; also, that a special meeting of a company be called for the elec-
tion of officers. If there should be no officer to preside at the meeting, one of
the enginemen was to do that duty, and if the person elected was not approved
by the Mayor and Aldermen, the Mayor was to issue his order to the chief for
a new election, after which, should the company refuse to reelect a member,
the Council would appoint a person to office, and should the company then
refuse to elect any officer they were to be disbanded. On December 19, it
was ordered that the term of service for members should be six months from
the first of January, and no member was to be paid unless he served the
whole of that period in the same company in which he entered ; only for sick-
ness or death was he excused.
206 HISTORY OF BOSrOJSr FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTER YI.
1843-1851.
QUITE a serious fire broke out on March 25, 1843, in the building of Mr.
David S. Greenough, at the corner of Washington and School streets.
Before the flames were controlled they spread to the buildings of Messrs. Wil-
kinson & Cory, Benjamin B. Wood, W. R. & A. H. Summer, Dean & Pratt,
and Bennoch, Fogg & Co., all of which were badly damaged, the loss aggre-
gating 118,450, $14,050 being covered by insurance. Two boys, named
Joseph Stark and Joseph Noble, and a man named Regan were badly injured by
the falling of the gutter from the wall. Another large conflagration occurred
June 4th, in the building of Timothy Carter, on Federal street, from where it
spread to the estates of Mrs. S. Richards and Messrs. John Lafferty, J. & E.
Walsh, J. & M. Dow, William C. Holmes, Boston Theatre Company, Patrick
Murray, and the heirs of Benjamin Dearborn in Theatre alley. The fire was
supposed to have originated from the careless use of a lantern in the hay-
loft of Mr. Carter; loss, $9,560, only $1,600 being covered by insurance
companies. Two other large fires occurred, one June 24th, when fourteen
buildings on Causeway street and two on Lancaster street were badly dam-
aged ; loss, $14,105. On September 10, fire was set to the same place, and
eight firms were burnt out, $7,200 worth of property being destroyed. Some
men smoking cigars in the carpenter-shop of S. A. Perkins, on Harrison
avenue, on September 14, caused the destruction of ten buildings on that
avenue and six on Washington street; loss, $7,129; $2,794 insured. The
Farmers' Botanic Garden, on Western avenue, was burnt on December 6,
together with a very valuable collection of plants.
Department changes : Engine 3, William Dyke, captain ; G. W. Tucker-
man, assistant; Edward Warren, steward; J. M. Oxford, clerk. No. 6,
F. Whitney, assistant ; Samuel Darling, steward. No. 7, Joseph C. Bartlett,
captain ; J. E. Warner, steward. No. 8, Eleazer Witherell, steward. No.
9, Samuel S. Nutting, clerk. No. 10, James Quinn, captain; Thomas
Sprague, clerk. No. 11, James Kidder, Jr., captain; A. L. Foss, assistant;
George H. Plummer, clerk. No. 17, George Thorn, assistant; E. H. Gardi-
ner, clerk. No. 18, John S. Kimball, clerk. No. 20, Pardon Smith, assist-
ant ; William Pray, steward. Ladder No. 1, G. G. Wilder, assistant; W.
H. Mason, clerk. Hose No. 1, R. S. Martin, captain; J. L. Wright, assist-
ant ; William Blake, clerk. Engines Tiger and Boston were sent to the
House of Correction in place of Relief, 15. Two reservoirs were added to
the water-supply, and the well in the street in front of 1 7 Dock square was
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIBE DEPABTMENT. 207
taken from it. Engine Company No. 6 was disbanded September 25th,
1848, and on October 9 T. P. Bowker was placed in charge of a newly-
organized company. December 4, the number of assistant engineers was
reduced to seven.
Assistant Engineers Theodore Washburn and Henry Fowle resigned during
1844, and January 15 Joshua Jacobs and T. A. Williams were appointed
to fill the vacancy. Department changes : Engine 3, Samuel L. Mason,
assistant ; Edward AYarren, steward ; Ii'a Banfield, clerk. No. 5, Solomon
Reed, assistant ; John S. Ryan, steward. No. 6, T. P. Bowker, captain ;
R. Balcom, assistant ; John Balcom, steward ; C. P. Daniels, clerk. No. 7,
Lewis Beck, captain ; William M. Lewis, assistant ; C. S. McClennan,
steward ; J. S. Emery, clerk. This engine was moved from quarters under the
City Hall to a new building on Pearl street. Captain Bartlett resigned on
March 11, and the company was honorably discharged. No. 8, James M.
Welch, captain; James M. Tolman, clerk. No. 11, John Pierce, captain;
Thomas Brown, clerk. No. 13, Charles Carter, assistant. No. 18, Benjamin
J. Morrill, captain ; J. P. Palmer, assistant. No. 20, Jonathan Pierce, clerk.
Ladder 1, Joseph G. Wyatt, steward; Philip Fox, clerk. ■
On June 6 Engine Co. No. 8 was stopped on Tremont street, by Assistant
Engineer Green, while going to a fire in Roxbury, after which he left them,
and proceeded to Washington street, to stop any other apparatus on their
way to that section. The third officer of No. 8 put it to a vote as to whether
the company would proceed, when it was found the desire was to go ; but they
were again stopped by Assistant Engineer Williams. The first and second of-
ficers put it to a vote the second time, and they went, contrary to the orders
of their superiors, for which ofi'ence the foreman and clerk were discharged on
June 24, and the members reprimanded. W. S. Damrell, who was appointed
foreman of this company, was severely injured at a fire during June, and re-
signed on July 1. Capt. J. R. Butler, of Engine No. 17, had a charge pre-
ferred against him, September 23d, for " a decided want of energy," but it
was not sustained, and he was acquitted. The pay of the members of the fire
department, except those in East Boston, was increased on July 1 to $65 per
month. Again was a petition sent to the City Council for another engine
at East Boston, but those gentlemen gave their opinion that the value of real
estate on the island did not warrant an outlay such as was necessary for a
new engine, the expense for which they estimate as follows : Cost of en-
gine, $1,000; house and land, $3,000; company per annum, $3,000; yearly
outlay, about $3,000. But this did not deter the passing of the order, as an
engine was sent there during the following year.
More than fifty buildings were fired by incendiaries the ensuing year,
from which the loss of property was very large, while the number of alarms
were two hundred and sixty-seven, — more than at any previous year since
Boston was founded. The largest fire occurred August 25, at the planing-mill
of Messrs. Hamilton & Co., in Groton street, when twenty buildings were de-
208 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
stroyed or damaged, including the Franklin school-house. The loss to the city
was $25,000, not a dollar being insured. The list of those burnt out Avere as
follows : Groton street : Messrs. Lawrence Rogers, George A. Gridley, Hall
& Adams, T. P. Durant, David Miller, J. W. Harris, Stephen Packard,
George Archibald, J. D. Kent, Mrs. Sarah Nevens, Joseph Kent, Leonard
Battelle. Dover street : Timothy C. Leeds, Abel Wyman, J. W. Gates, heirs
of Ed. Tuckerraan, Stanton Parker, William F. Otis, trustee, Joseph Clark,
E. R. Mayo, Harrison G. Otis, J. H. Bolles, Mrs. C. K. Sargent, Rev. J. T.
Sargent. Washington street: City of Boston, Samuel Appleton, Christian
Tank, and J. G. Newell. Total loss, $63,766; insurance, $29,606. The
other occurred on August 18, when the estate owned by the heirs of C. Tay-
lor, on Brighton street, was ignited, by which Messrs. Bosworth & Pratt,
Robert Bunton, T. Burr, Joseph Gass, M. Edgeworth, John Davis, Thomas
Fairburn, Irving Peterson, R. H. Clouston, R. A. Cobb, Charles Cutler, M.
King, Mrs. Edwards, and Mrs. Gear, were burnt out. Before the firemen had
this blaze under control, an alarm was given from Lowell street, where a
carpenter-shop was set fire, but was extinguished before it had made any
progress. On the way to their respective houses, the department was called
to a large conflagration on South Margin street, on which street twenty build-
ings were destroyed or damaged, the sufferers being Samuel Jepson. J. Kitt-
redge, Mrs. E. Sharon, R. Ridlon, M. Smith, J. B. Jepson, John Tillsou, L.
Bacon. J. Wells, D. Wise, W. B. Daniels, George Mitchell, T. J. Brigham,
P. Cudworth, M. L. Wallis, Dole & Hodges, Ezra Trull, C. & J. McElroy,
Gray & Briggs, heirs of J. M. Dexter, A. Smith, J. F. Holland, F. D. Ware,
A. A. Hill, J. B. Hancock, S. B. Heustis, C. C. Converse, William Kenne-
day, John Wedger, E. Corliss, Mr. Warrick, and Mr. Hayward. Loss at
both fires, $55,089 ; insurance, $16,869. Another attempt was made August
1st, on Engine-house 17, but the fire was soon extinguished. Total loss of
property during 1844, $184,083 ; total insurance, $95,352.
Engine No. 4 was sent to East Boston during 1845, in the place of No 11,
and the latter engine given to No. 20, which was used as a relief. No. 14
was sent to the volunteer company on Suffolk street, and No. 1 was placed
on the list of relief engines. Three new reservoirs of the large size were
built during the year, also thirty-two with a capacity of one hundred and fifty
to thi-ee hundred hogsheads ; three of the former were connected with the
aqueduct, making a total of one hundred reservoirs, while the fire-plugs were
reduced to twenty-nine, and all the wells were crossed off the list. The
Superintendent of Streets was requested, on February 10, to keep the lids of
all the reservoirs in order. A new engine was ordered for South Boston,
September 22, and a building erected near the Mather school-house which
would be suitable for an engine-house, watch-house and armory, the latter
to be occupied by the Mechanic Grays. November 15, Engine Company
No 15 was permitted to call their engine the "Boston." At the same date,
Engine Company No. 20 was disbanded.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 209
Assistant Engineer John Green, Jr., resigned, by which the board was
reduced to seven members, exclusive of Chief Barnicoat. Other changes in
department: Engine No. 3, Cahan Stewart. No. 5, Horace S. Gorham,
captain ; John S. Ryan, assistant ; A. J. Hall, steward ; J. R. Ellis, clerk.
No. 6, Anthony Martis, steward. No. 7, John Ball, captain ; John Lawrence,
clerk. No. 8. Charles Carver, clerk. No. 9, William E. Hearsey, captain ;
S. F. Frost, clerk. No. 10, Moses F. Webster, steward. No. 11, G. E.
Pierce. No. 12, E. W. W. Hawes, assistant; F. Hall, Jr., steward; Z. E.
Smith, clerk. No. 15, W. H. Simonds, clerk. No. 20, John A. Rathbun,
assistant; George W. Tuckerman, steward.
The ensuing year was also a prolific one for fires of an incendiary origin.
One building, that of Mr. Levi T. Woodman, on Utiea place, was set five
times, from January 1 to February 25. Engine-house 13, on Leverett street,
was entirely destroyed on April 14. The engine was saved, but in a much
damaged condition; loss, $1,200. Engine-house No. 8, on Tremout street,
was also da,maged to the extent of $500, on May 5 ; and on July 26, Engine-
house 18, Pemberton Hill (Tremont row), was set fire, but discovered
before it got under headway. On May 11 several boys built a fire in the
rear of Mr. George Newell's carpenter-shop on South Cedar street, for the
purpose of roasting clams. The high wind blowing at the time blew the
flames among some shavings scattered around the shop which soon communi-
cated to the building, and before the fire was under control, the following
persons were burnt out : South Margin street : Messrs. J. Bennett, Isaac
Adams, Thomas Adams, Mrs. P. C. West, E. Harrington, John Morgan, A.
Morgan, E. Atwood, E. L. Holt, B. Shepard, H. W. Whitney, N. Goddard,
Milo Rice, Mr. Davenport, C. A. Bodge, J. Thaxter, George Sullivan, C. W.
Tuttle, Asa Stearns, Lowell, Fiske, Gould, J. McGuire, Mrs. Pike, D.
Hagen, C. Hutchins, M. Fisher, Mi's. E. Gardner, George R. Varney, S.
Ditson, A. Fessendeu, A. Brown, J. Nance, Mrs. Mary Barnes, R. Cazian,
J. Bartlett, H. M. L. Whitman, Mrs. E. Kimball. Piedmont street : E.
Marston, A. M. Hawkes, C. Mclntire, G. Gilson, H. A. Breed, B. Foster,
E. Weutworth, J. C. Wheeler, J. Tenison, Jr., E. A. Perkins, J. A. Fuller,
P. O'Neil, S. 0. Mason, L. Buck, ]\lrs. Carey, J. Alman, A. Pilgram, S. H.
Hayward, F. Smith, S. Curtis, G. Martin, J. Aldrich, Ira Andrews, N. M.
Morrison, Mrs. E. Roddan, M. Carr, C. P. Philbrick, Mrs. Phelps, Elisha
Barnes, H. Leavett, A. Loring, and proprietors M. E. Church ; loss, $41,223 ;
insurance, $22,150.
August 15, incendiaries set fire to the building of the Fifty Associates,
on Brattle square, which was entirely consumed, also that of Lucius Doolittle ;
loss to both buildings, $8,500. Messrs. William Roulstone. of Engine 7, and
Emerson G. Thompson, of Engine3, of Charlestown, were instantly killed by
the falling of a wall ; several persons were also severely burned in their
endeavors to remove the horses from the stable. On September 14, the Suf-
folk Lead Works, Messrs. Henshaw, Ward, & Co., proprietors, in Gold street,
210 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
South Boston, consisting of five buildings, together with six dweUings were
levelled to the ground, and a block of six dwellings were badly damaged ;
total loss, $49,050; insurance, $42,450. On December 24, the steam-boiler
in the box-factory of Mr. Isaac Tirrell, on Harrison avenue, exploded, and
killed Messrs. William Ford and William Tirrell. Total loss during the
year, $231,191 ; insurance, $72,840. There were two hundred and twenty-
three alarms.
The Board of Engineers was reduced to six members during 1846, Mr.
Peter C. Jones having resigned. On March 30 seven were allowed for the city
proper, and one each for East Boston and South Boston. On June 22 the num-
ber for the city was increased to nine. Other changes in the department :
Engine 3, Jessie Farmer, assistant; A. P. Bessey, clerk. No. 5, J. S. Ryan,
captain ; A. R. Davis, assistant ; L. L. Estabrook, clerk. No. 6, Franldin E.
Whitney, captain ; Samuel Darling, assistant ; Albert Chandler, steward ;
Charles Mountford, clerk. No. 7, Caleb S. McClennen, captain; Thomas
Melzar, steward; G. A. Putnam, clerk. No. 9, Franklin Patch, assistant.
No. 11, Thomas Brown, captain; Jacob Barker, assistant; E. W. Hutchins,
steward ; D. B. Kidder, clerk. No. 12, E. W. W. Hawes, captain ; Z. E. Smith,
assistant; J. N. Tolman, clerk. No. 13, William Jepsou, captain; Obed W.
Bartlett, clerk. No. 15, Robert Taylor, captain; H. S. Ellms, assistant.
Perkins Engine, 16, John Davis, Jr., captain ; James Wood, assistant ; James
Cliff, steward ; Jackson L. Stinson, clerk ; forty members. No. 18, F. A.
Colburn, assistant ; Leonard Metcalf, clerk. No. 20, Jonathan Pierce, cap-
tain ; C. B. Starkweather, assistant; N. B. Howe, clerk. Ladder No. 1,
William Calder, steward.
Old North Engine was placed in charge of a volunteer company at East
Boston, and old 15 at the same place, in charge of Volunteer Co. No. 4. Perkins
Engine Company 16 was organized this year, and housed on Broadway, South
Boston. This engine was built during 1845 by Hunneman & Co. Twenty-
three additional reservoirs were also constructed during 1846. Engine Com-
pany No. 13 was disbanded on March 19 ; and on the 30th William- Jepson
and others were allowed to organize a new company to take charge of it.
Engine Company No. 1 1 had the number of its members increased to forty on the
same date. July 20, a lot was purchased on Purchase street for the building
of a new house for Engine No. 7 ; and on November 23 a new engine-house
was ordered erected on Suffolk street. The Charitable Association was
appropriated $1,000 by the City Council on August 31. Capt. John Ball and
Clerk S. McClennen, of Engine Company No. 7, resigned on July 27.
Ou Januai'y 22 the L^'man School, on Meridian street, East Boston, was
burnt, together with two dwellings ; loss $17,400. Engine-house 18 was again
set fire, on February 1 ; the damage did not exceed $300. On February 23
the Howard Athenaeum, owned by Messrs. Ford & Brayley, on Howard street,
was burnt ; loss $7,050 ; insurance $750. Mr. Hugh McLaughlin, employed in
the rum distillery of Messrs. C. & E. Trull, on Merrimac street, was instantly
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 211
killed by the bursting of a rum cistern on July 30. Engine-house No. 4 was
set fire on August 26, but little damage done. A colored man named
Franklin Ellick was suffocated during the fire on board the steamer " Wan-
derer," of Bristol, lying at Long wharf, October 12.
On October 18, 1847, it was ordered by the City Council that the term of
service of members of the department should commence on the first day of
every month and continue for six months, instead of the first of January
and first of July, as formerly.
Assistant Engineers James G. Sanderson and Thomas A. Williams
resigned during 1847, vice George W. Bird, Thomas French, of East Boston,
and Brewster Reynolds, of South Boston. Suffolk Engine 1 was organized
March 15, 1847, and housed on Suffolk street, in a building erected for the
purpose, with William L. Champney as captain ; W. H. Eastman, assistant ;
E. T. Talbot, steward; A. P. Melzarr, clerk, and thu'ty-elght members.
Protective Engine Company No. 4 was organized June 1, the ensuing year,
and placed in a building on Paris street. East Boston, with Alfred Holmes,
captain; Anson Ellms, assistant; E. W. Gunnison, steward; and George
Butts, clerk. No. 5, Horace S. Gorham, captain ; Matthias Gorham, steward ;
John S. Ryan, clerk ; thirty-seven members. Hose No. 6 was disbanded by
the Mayor and Aldermen on August 31. A new house was built for No. 7,
on Purchase street, during the year, where it was moved ; William Shelton,
steward ; W. C Savage, clerk. No. 9 was moved from Mason street to the
City Hall. No. 1-0, Messrs. F. Webster, assistant ; J. S. Kimball, steward.
No. 11, P. Nutter, steward. No. 12, Elisha Smith, captain; Francis Hall,
Jr., assistant; George W. Parshley, steward; William F. Bugbee, clerk.
Cataract Engine, No. 14, was organized August 5, and placed in a building
at the foot of Mt. Vernon street, with Theodore P. Bowker, captain ; Solomon
Reed, assistant; O. C. Whitney, steward; W. H. Palmer, clerk. No. 15,
Henry S. Ellms, captain; Robert Kemp, assistant; A. Smith, steward. No.
16, George F. Hibbard, steward. No. 18, Fred A. Colburn, captain ; C. C.
Henry, assistant. Old North Engine Company, No. 19, was reorganized June
1, and placed in a building on Eagle Hill, East Boston, with Nathaniel Seaver,
captain ; Freeman Baker, assistant ; Levi L. Whitcomb, steward ; E. Tibbets,
clerk. No. 20, Elbridge G. Damrell, captain; I. P. Thompson, assistant;
H. A. Pine, steward; J. F. Milner, clerk. Ladder 1, Timothy K. Tripp, cap-
tain ; Philip Fox, assistant ; C. C. Bragg, clerk. Ladder 2 was moved to a
building provided for it at the city stables, and kept ready for use.
The steamboat "Penobscot," the property of Messrs. Sanford, Kimball,
& Page, was burnt while lying at East Boston, Jan. 7, 1847; loss $15,000;
no insurance. The building in Granite place, occupied by volunteers for the
Mexican war, was burnt on January 21. The same day fire originated in a
wooden building used for bowling-alleys, and known as the "Neptune Bowling
Saloon," from the upsetting of a stove, from where it communicated and de-
stroyed eighty buildings, comprising dwelling-houses, carpenter-shops, stables,
212 HISTORY OF BOSTOW FIRE DEPARTMENT.
mechanic shops, etc., which were embraced in a square formed by Haverhill,
Causeway, Medford, and Travers streets. The wind was very high, while
the combustibility of the buildhigs, together with the scarcity of water at the
commencement, rendered the efforts of the firemen unavailing ; total loss
$66,154; insurance, $28,001. On April 13, the building owned by H. W.
Nelson, at South Boston, was burnt, and a man perished in the flames.
By an Act of March 27, 1847, and another of 1850, new building laws
were framed. At the same time an ordinance regarding the same was passed
by the City Council. On February 12, 1847, Engine Company No. 11 received
an increase of compensation. A new engine-house was ordered to be erected
on Charles street ; but, instead of building a new structure, the gun-house
located in the Public Garden was removed, on April 5, to the dock on a site
of land in the rear of Dr. Sharp's church, on Charles street. 'Engine C'ompany
No. 5 was disbanded February 22, and on March 8 Mr. J. S. Ryan was
appointed to take command. The members attached to Engine No. 1, on
Suffolk street, being a voluntary company, were ordered, on the same date,
to receive full pay. A new house was erected, on Hudson street, May 31,
and an engine and ladder house was ordered built in Warren square,
August 31. At the same date the members of Engine Companies Nos. 6
and 7 were discharged. Assistant Engineer James G. Sanderson resigned
August 3. •
The question of an adequate water-supply was one that Mayor Josiah
Quincy, Jr., — who held that office from December 11, 1845, to January,
1849, — gave considerable attention. In his inaugural address, on January 5,
1846, he dealt with the water question in a way to secure the hearty coope-
ration of his associates in the government. The time for deliberation, he
said, had passed. The time for action had come. A competent and dis-
interested commission had decided that Long pond was the source from which
this blessing was to be derived, and the honor of beginning the important
work had been conferred upon the administration then in power. He then
proceeded to make a financial statement, from which it appeared that the cost
of introducing water, estimated by the commissioners to be $2,651,645, was
more than covered by the city lands, estimated at that time to be worth
$3,175,000. The funded city debt on January 1, 1846, amounted to
$1,085,200, showing a reduction of over $600,000 since 1840. This favorable
exhibit of the city's financial condition had much to do with securing the ap-
proval of the citizens to the next act of the Legislature, authorizing the in-
troduction of water. Ten days after the new government came in, the Mayor
was authorized to petition for another act. It was granted in the form de-
su-ed on March 30, and accepted by the citizens on April 13, the vote standing
four thousand six hundred and thirty-seven in the affirmative, and only three
hundred and forty-eight in the negative.
On May 4, James F. Baldwin, Nathan Hale, and Thomas B. Curtis were
chosen by^ the City Council as commissioners under the act ; and on August "20
. HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 213
the ceremonies of breaking ground for the beginning of the work at the lake
was performed by the Mayor, assisted by his father and the venerable John
Quincy Adams. At the collation which followed, the Mayor called attention
to the name by which the source of supply was generally known, and said the
name Long pond was like the name John Smith, without distinction. He sug-
gested, therefore, that the Indian name " Cochituate" should be substituted,
and the suggestion was immediately adopted.
On October 25, 1848, there was another celebration, this time on Boston
Common. The rising of the sun was saluted with a hundred guns, and by the
ringing of all the church bells. A great procession was formed, which, after
marching through several streets, proceeded to the Common, where anode,
written by Mr. James Russell Lowell, was sung by the school-children, and
addresses were made by the Mayor and by Mr. Nathan Hale. After these
addresses the Mayor inquired of the immense throng of people assembled if it
was their pleasure that water should be introduced. There was a tremendous
" Yes ! " and, thereupon, the gate was opened, and a column of water six inches
in diameter rose to a height of eighty feet through the tall fountain in the
Frog-pond. What followed is thus described by the historian of the water-
works : —
After a moment of silence, shouts rent the air, the bells began to ring, cannon were
fired, and rockets streamed across the sky. The scene was one of immense excitement,
which it is impossible to describe, but which no one can forget. In the evening there was
a grand display of fireworks, and all the public buildings, and many of the private houses,
were brilliantly illuminated .
On the establishment of this water-supply, all minor institutions had to
give way, and the old Jamaica-pond aqueduct ceased to be of any special
use.
Assistant Engineer John Shelton resigned during 1848.
The department changes were : Engine 1, William Lovell. No. 3, A. P.
Beasey, assistant ; Edward AVarren, steward ; Hosea Allen, clerk. No. 4,
Anson Ellms, captain ; George Butts, assistant ; Joseph Pierce, clerk. No.
5, Amos R. Davis, captain ; John S. Ryan, assistant ; Abner Gorham, clerk.
No. 8, Bailey T. Mills, captain ; E. Witherell, assistant ; Jeremiah P. Ready,
steward. Engine No. 9 was removed to Hudson street during the year ;
David Chamberlain, captain ; J. S. Hunt, assistant ; George W. Foster, clerk.
No. 10, T. M. Bartlett, steward ; J. B. Merrick, clerk. No. 11, D. B. Kidder,
assistant; F. Bucklebank, steward; W. H. Dwight, clerk. No. 12, William
F. Bugbee, assistant ; E. W. W. Hawes, steward ; Daniel Smith, clerk. No.
13, Carlon Buffum, clerk. No. 14, J. K. Adams, clerk. No. 15, W. H.
Simonds, assistant; G. H. Ames, clerk. No. 16, J. L. Stinson, assistant;
George Emraerson, clerk. No. 18, Charles C. Henry, captain; Leonard
Metcalf, assistant ; Caleb Clapp, clerk. No. 20, Charles H. White, steward.
Relief No. 15 was sent to Deer Island, and Engine 6 was placed in charge
214 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT,
of Company No. 4. The number of reservoirs were increased to one hundred
and thirty-two.
Two hundred and eighty-two alarms were responded to by the depart-
ment during 1848, during which $223,273 worth of property was destroyed.
The insurance on tlie same amounted to $162,085. The largest of these fires
occurred March 10, when the printing office of Messrs. Damrell & Moore,
52 Washington street, was destroyed to the extent of $25,000, together with
$73,100 worth of property adjoining. The next large fire occurred July 12,
in the buildins; of Adams & Cook, on Hudson street. This fire was set in a
stable, and, before controlled, destroyed and damaged fourteen buildings, at
a loss of S23,169 ; insurance, $13,645. Engine-house 5, in Dock square,
was set fire August 17; little damage was done; and on October 20, En-
gine-house 13, on Leverett street, was also set fire, but fortunately discov-
ered before greatly damaged ; on December 25 attempts were also made on
Engine-house No. 7. Engine 18 has the honor of first using the Cochituate
water for the extinguishment of a fire, at half -past twelve o'clock, noon,
November 9, at afire in the building situated at the corner of Hanover and
Cross streets, occupied by Messrs. T. R. & F, F. Raymond, grocery store ;
Graves & Stevens, dry goods; L. Warren, painter; and Thomas Restieaux,
for storage. The hydrant from which the supply of water was received
was at the corner of Hanover and Cross streets.
An attempt was made, November 28, to fire the National Theatre, on
Friend street. The burning of the Catholic church, on Broadway, South Bos-
ton, Sept. 7, 1849, "was the work of incendiaries; loss, $70,000; insurance,
$43,000.
During 1849, Engine No. 2 was ordered to South Boston Point, but no
house was provided for the company, consequently it was ordered out of ser-
vice. Engines Nos. 3, 8, and 9, were withdrawn, and hydrant or hose com-
panies of twenty members were substituted. Engines Nos. 3, 9, old 15, and
20 were sold.
The great power of the Cochituate water in the depressed level of the
land in the vicinity of the dock, occasioned the disbandment of Engine Com-
pany No. 5, on April 30, 1849, and their engine was placed in charge of
Company No. 10, whose engine was used as a relief, and the engine-house
and land of the former were sold on September 22.
Assistant Engineers Thomas French and B. Reynolds resigned during
1849, and Messrs. Elisha Smith, Jr., Theodore P. Bowker, Anson Ellms,
Fred A. Colburn, and Jonathan Pierce were appointed, which appointments
increased the number in the board to ten. Other department changes : En-
gine 1, Silas LoveU, steward; William H. Ford, clerk. No. 4, George Butts,
captain ; B. F. Newell, assistant ; James H. Harrington, steward ; Edwin
Butts, clerk. No. 10, J. C. Jones, steward; Charles Taylor, clerk. No. 11,
D. B. Kidder, captain ; S. Y. Chase, assistant ; P. Nutter, steward ; I. F.
Crafts, clerk. No. 12, E. W. W. Hawes, captain; Z. E. Smith, steward.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 215
No. 13, Charles Carter, captain; C. Buffum, assistant; J. W. Reed, clerk.
No. 14. Solomon Reed, Captain ; A. R; C. Lambert, assistant ; H. R. Chase,
steward; Alvin Vinal, clerk. No. 16, J. L. Stinson, captain; George F.
Hibbard, assistant ; D. C. Simpson, steward ; C. R. Steiger, clerk. No. 18,
Leonard Metcalf, captain ; Caleb Clapp, assistant ; C. C. Henry, steward ;
T. Gerrish, clerk. No. 19, Gilman Felch, captain; D. P. Mathews, assist-
ant; Warren Belcher, clerk. A new house was erected for this company'
during the year. No. 20, David C. Meloon, captain; A. Horton, assistant;
C. A. Blake, steward ; E. B. Chapin, clerk. Tiger Hook-and-Ladder Co., No.
2, organized October 1, 1848, and located in Paris street. East Boston ; Wil-
liam Hunt, captain ; John H. Shattuck, clerk ; ten members. The carriage
had a capacity of eleven ladders of various lengths, two hooks, three crotch-
poles, and four axes. Washington Hydrant Co., No. 1, organized February 1,
1849, located in old Engine 3's quarters in Salem street ; William Dyke, cap-
tain ; A. P. Bessey, assistant ; Daniel Hardy, steward ; William Lasell, clerk ;
sixteen members. Despatch Hydrant Co., No. 2, organized March 1, located
in Engine 9's house, Hudson street; David Chamberlain, captain; John S.
Hunt, assistant; N. B. Howe, steward; George W. Foster, clerk. Franklin
Hydrant Co., No. 3, organized May 1, housed on Tremont row; James L.
Wright, captain; William Blake, assistant; M. A. Rice, clerk; seventeen
members. Tremont Hydrant Co., No. 4, organized September 1, and placed
in Engine 8's quarters ; Bailey T. Mills, captain ; Eleazer Witherell, assistant ;
Edward West, steward ; Charles Carver, clerk ; sixteen members. Each of
these companies were equipped with from eighteen to two thousand feet
of leading hose, four to eight buckets, and two axes, hydrant-necks, and
wrenches.
One reservoir and seven hundred and eighty-one hydrants were placed
in various parts of the city during the year. The number of alarms were
three hundred and thirty-seven ; loss of property, $300,525 ; insurance,
$216,992. Among these we may mention the destruction of nineteen unfin-
ished houses on Lenox street, on February 26, the property of Trainer &
Plympton. March I, Engine-house 7, on Purchase street, was set fire and
slightly damaged. Michael Harris was burned to death in a building in the
rear of 12 Sea street, October 27.
By request of the City Council, the Board of Engineers, on March 8, ap-
pointed Messrs. William Baruicoat, John Davis, Jr., F. A. Colburn and C. S.
Clark a committee to revise the Rules and Regulations of the department,
which was accomplished, and submitted to the Mayor and Aldermen on the
22d, and approved by the latter on April 8. There were few changes of im-
portance ; but all the orders .were condensed and framed in twenty articles.
(See Engineer's Report, 1849).
Engines Nos. 2, 8, and 10 were sold during 1850, and Engine-house No.
18, on Tremont row, was sold at auction on August 12. The number of
hydrants in the city were seven hundred and eighty-six, one hundred and
216 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
forty-seven at South Boston, making a total for the use of the department of
nine hundred and thirty-three.
Company changes for the year: Engine 1, William L, Champney, cap-
tain ; William Lovell, assistant. No. 4, Benjamin F. Newell, captain ; Joseph
3?ierce, assistant ; William H. Perkins, clerk. No. 7, William Shelton, stew-
ard ; Andrew Neville, clerk. No. 11, William Pray, steward. No. 12,
Daniel Smith, clerk. No. 18, Oliver L. Roberts, captain ; H. L. Champlin,
clerk. No. 19, Joseph Dunbar, steward ; E. B. Perry, clerk. No. 20, D. E.
Knight, steward. Ladder 1, Philip Fox, captain ; G. H. Lovejoy, assistant;
J. S. Stevens, steward ; C. C. Bragg, clerk ; house on Friend street. Ladder 2,
J. H. Shattuck, assistant; Andrew Leach, clerk. Hydrant No. 1, W. W.
Currier, assistant. No. 3, Mason A. Rice, captain ; John Colter, clerk.
Number of alarms, two hundred and forty ; loss of property, $123,660 ;
insurance, $76,197. The largest of these fires was the burning of the Boston
and Maine Railroad freight depot, on Causeway street, November 5, loss,
$115,332 ; insurance, $10,000. Messrs. Harrod & Fernald occupied part of
the building as a mahogany warehouse. Twenty-three cars loaded with
cotton, etc., was consumed with the depot ; loss, $38,000 ; insurance, $20,000.
Mrs. Riley, living at 4 East Orange street, was burned to death, on June 15,
from explosion of a fluid-lamp.
Assistant Engineers John Davis, Jr., T. P. Bowker, and Jonathan Pierce
were succeeded by Messrs. Thomas Haveland and James Wood during 1851.
Engines Nos. 1, 10, 15, 18, and 20 were disbanded during the year, but were
reorganized at the end of the year, and the names and numbers of each com-
pany altered. Two engines were kept in the building under the reservoir in
Derne street.
On February 24 an order was passed in the City Council for a system of
fire-alarms to be established, and Dr. William H. Channing submitted a plan of
telegraphic alarm. On June 10, $10,000 were appropriated for establishing
this system, and on December 29, $3,000 additional were expended. (See
article on fire-alarm service in this volume.) Captain Quinn, of Engine No.
10, Howes, of No. 12, Hunt, of No. 2, J. Price, clerk of No. 13, and W.
Lassell, clerk of No. 1, were dismissed, March 18, for insubordination and
neglect, of duty. Twenty-three members of Engine No. 10 asked for their
discharge on April 28, whereby the company was disbanded, and Hydrant
Company No. 3 substituted. An order was passed by the Aldermen, June 9,
by which refreshments were furnished the members of the depai'tment while
at a fire at the city's expense.
A committee was appointed on March 3 to ascertain the fitness of the
Board of Engineers and members. This resulted from a hearing that took
place on February 14, the ensuing year, on charges against Chief Barnicoat
and several members for intoxication at the fire in the Tremont House, March
21, 1850; the neglect of duty of two of his assistants; profanity of the
chief and two of his assistants at a fire in Decon street ; also neglect and
HISTORF OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 217
incompetency of the assistant engineer and some forty members. The whole
statement were considered by the committee as frivolous, and they exonerated
every member mentioned in the charge. On July 1 the pay of the depart-
ment was fixed as follows : chief, $2,000 ; assistant, $250 ; secretary of board,
$800 ; firemen, $150, except those in East Boston, who received $75 ; assist-
ant foremen and stewards, $125; East Boston, $60; naembers, $100; East
Boston, $50, per year. The chief and the assistants were paid semi-annually,
the others annually.
The report for 1851 contained the following changes in the company
officers : No. 4, Nathaniel Seaver, captain ; Freeman Baker, assistant ; T.
B. Tilton, steward ; B. G. Prescott, clerk. No. 7, Stephen B. Kendall, cap-
tain ; Josiah Snelling, assistant; William C. Savage, clerk. No. 11, Samuel
Y. Chase, captain; H. N. Alexander, assistant; Aaron Brown, clerk. No.
12, John H. Clifford, captain; Samuel N. Tucker, assistant; J. B. Whitney,
steward; George W. Snow, clerk. No. 13, Octavius Boston, assistant ; C. B.
Wilson, steward ; William Blake, clerk. No. 14, only eleven members, Otis C.
Whitney, steward, the only officer. No. 16, Joshua Jenkins, captain; D. J.
Weston, assistant ; Theodore Hutchins, steward ; W. Alonzo Brabmer, clerk.
No. 17, Hiram A. Bowles, clerk. No. 19, D. P. Matthews, captain; E. Bur-
riU, assistant; Charles Burrill, steward; Joseph Burrill, clerk; Ladder No. 1,
Timothy K. Tripp, captain ; N. W. Pratt, assistant ; James H. Clark, clerk. No.
2, Warren P'oster, captain ; T. P. Cheney, assistant ; B. C. Seaver, steward ; E.
B. Lincoln, clerk. Hydrant Co. No. 1, Daniel Hardy, captain ; Peter Thomp-
son, assistant ; Charles Jenkins, steward ; Charles E. Duuton, clerk. No.
2, John M. Butterfield, captain ; James Farnsworth, assistant ; J. C. Folsom,
clerk. No. 3, J. S. Ryan, assistant. No. 4, Charles Carver, captain; Thomas
Dwyer, assistant; David Hanson, steward; J. W. Leatherbee, Jr., clerk.
The number of hydrants were increased to eight hundred and five in the
city, one hundred and sixty-one at South Boston, and one hundred and five
at East Boston, making a total of one thousand and seventy-one. Of the
three hundred and thirty-three alarms at which the department responded,
the loss by fire was $386,107; insurance, $192,937. Of these, the largest
was the burning of the East Boston ferry-boat, January 5 ; loss, $18,000 ;
no insurance. The Franklin school-house was set fire on August 24, and
damaged to the extent of $1 ,500.
During the maj'oralty of John P. Bigelow, June 2, 1851, the ordinances
governing the department was again revised. In these it was ordered that the
members should have the use of the lower room of the engine-house, but no fur-
niture or decoration was allowed, except such as furnished by the city. As-
sociation or organized societies or clubs of firemen were prohibited, except by
express permission of the City Council. No company was allowed to impose
fines upon the members, but the clerk was ordered to enter in his roll-book
all absences and tardiness, and to make a monthly return of the same to the
engineers. For such absence, except in case of sickness, fifty cents was
218 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
deducted from the member offending. If the offence was repeated at more
than one-third of the alarms of fire during the month, t\\Qy were discharged.
In the rules established July 14, 1851, this fine was reduced to twenty-five
cents. Any member wilfully neglecting or refusing to perform his dut3^ or
guilty of insubordination, should be dismissed, and should they offend against
any ordinance of the city relating to the department, they were liable to a fine
of $5 or $20. Every member was obliged to sign the following statement,
which was deposited with the engineers : —
I, A. B., having been appointed a member of the Boston Fire Department, hereby
signify my agreement to abide by all the ordinances of the City Council, and the Rules
and Regulations of the Mayor and Aldermen, and the Board of Engineers, relating thereto.
The rules were re%ised on December 30, so that a member should not lose
his pay should he remove his residence to another part of the city, but the en-
gineer should transfer liim to an engine in the vicinity of his new place of abode.
The size of the department was increased on September 27, by increasing
the number of each company to forty men. A room in the basement of
the eastern side of City Hall was fitted up for an engine-house on the same
date. A new hose-carriage was ordered built for East Boston on September 6.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 219
CHAPTER YII.
1852-1857.
THE changes in the Board of Engineers for 1852, were : Messrs. Lewis
Beck, George S. Thorne, Nathaniel Seaver, and Richard S. Martin,
vice Anson Ellms, Thomas Haviland, and James Wood.
Nearly all the companies were reorganized, and a new ladder company
and two hydrant companies put in commission. Another engine was placed
under the reservoir in Derne street, and a relief engine in Hydrant-house
No. 5. The changes reported are as follows : Mazeppa Engine Co., No. 1, vice
No. 17, Broadway, South Boston, Elijah H. Goodwin, captain; H. A. Bowles,
assistant; Alpheus Gleason, clerk. Perkins, No. 2, vice 16, same officers.
Eagle, No. 3, Washington street, vice Engine No. 12, same officers. Cataract,
No. 4, Mount Vernon street, vice Engine No. 14, Samuel S. Nutting, captain ;
E. W. Wellman, assistant; T. Gerrish, clerk. Extinguisher, No. 5, East
street, vice Engine No. 20, David Riley, steward ; E. W. Milliken, clerk. Mel-
ville, No. 6, Leverett street, vice No. 13, same officers. Howard, No. 7, was the
only company that retained its old number ; Josiah Snelling, captain ; T. A.
Bridge, assistant. Boston, No. 8, Commercial street, vice No. 20, William A.
Green, captain ; Charles P. Shattuclv, assistant ; Benjamin Tarbox, clerk.
Maverick, No. 9, Paris street, East Boston, vice No. 11, H. N. Alexander,
captain; J. P. Somerby, assistant; Washburn Weston, clerk. Old North,
No. 10, Eagle Hill, East Boston, vice No. 19, Joseph Dunbar, steward ; Davis
Damon, clerk. Ladder No. 1, N. W. Pratt, captain ; J. H. Clark, assistant;
Charles A. Eaton, clerk. No. 2, John Dillingham, clerk. Franklin Hook-
and- Ladder Company, No. 3, house on Harrison avenue, near city stables, Otis
N. Marston, captain ; Z. E. Smith, assistant ; Richard Mugford, clerk ; seven
members ; the truck carried fifteen ladders of various lengths, three hooks,
crotch-poles, and axes each, two guy-ropes, two rakes, and four buckets.
Hydrant Company, No. 1, C. E. Danton, assistant ; James E. Rich, clerk. No.
3, John S. Ryan, captain ; John Colter, assistant ; Andrew Tonkin, clerk.
Suffolk Hydrant Company, No. 5, houser on Shawmut avenue, William Lovell,
captain ; Samuel E. Ross, assistant ; Silas Lovell, steward ; John O. Fallon,
clerk ; ten members. Protective Hydrant Company, No. 6, Paris street, East
Boston, Bradbury G. Prescott, captain ; Ebenezer Higgins, assistant ; T. B.
Tilton, steward ; I. F. Crafts, clerk ; twelve members. Ten more hydrants
were placed in the city, nineteen at South Boston, and twenty-five at East
Boston, making a total of one thousand one hundred and twenty-five ready
for use.
220 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The alarms sounded for 1852 numbered three hundred and thh'ty-three,
giving a total destruction to property of $386,107 ; insurance, $172,937. At the
burning of Isaiah Howe's building, 20 Kingston street, on February 12, Mr.
John Smith, of Hydrant Company No. 2, was killed by a falling wall, and
several other members of the department were badly injured. March 31
Tremont Temple, located at 82 Tremout street, was entirely destroyed, and
thirty-seven people suffered a loss $178,360 ; insurance, $45,244. During the
fire a citizen named John Hall was instantly killed by a falling wall, and
George Estes, of Jingine 7, Charlestown, had his back broken.
About three o'clock on the morning of April 22, iire was discovered under
the stairway of the National Theatre. The building being constructed of
wood, the flames made such headway before the arrival of the firemen that the
entire destruction of the edifice was inevitable. Despite the efforts of the
department, the building was a mass of ruins within three quarters of an hour.
The theatre was owned by William Sohier, Esq., and was valued at $40,000 ;
properties, $6,000 ; scenery, $15,000, and music-books, $4,000 ; besides, there
were two thousand volumes of prompter's books, and three thousand original
manuscripts destroyed ; the loss to the actors was about $2,000. Several
other buildings were injured by fire and w^ater.
The first regular alarm given by the telegraphic system was sounded for
a fire in the building of John Ward, located at the corner of Causeway and
Charlestown streets, on April 29, 1852. Mr. Thomas Wise was burnt to
death in the building at 102 Union street, on June 23. The largest conflagra-
tion of this year is known as the Fort Hill fire. It broke out in the building
owned by the heirs of D. Packard, located on Belmont street, on July 10.
The fire originated in an unoccupied stable, by some boys playing with fire-
crackers, and, before being extinguished, completely destroyed the Sailor's
Home, 99 Purchase street ; the Mariner's Church, near Purchase street ; the
Boylston school-house, Washington place, and about thirty other buildings,
including many valuable brick dwelling-houses and stores; loss, $150,000;
insurance, $75,000. Another authority places the loss at $400,000.
Three children of Mrs. Rogers, 29 Friend street, were burnt to death on
August 3 by a lamp setting fire to their bed ; and on October 3, a child of
Daniel Crowle}', Maverick street, East Boston, was burnt. At the burning of
the building on Purchase street, occupied by Messrs. Moses Williams and
William H. Davis, October 12, Michael O'Shay was instantly killed, and
Michael Lynch badly injured, by falling walls. December 1, fire, supposed of
an incendiary origin, started in a building occupied by Jonas Chickering, 334
Washington street, and twenty-three tenants were burnt out ; loss, $187,340 ;
insurance, $86,685. Mr. Benjamin F. Foster was instantly killed, and Alvin
M. Turner seriously injured, by being buried in an adjoining building, which
was crushed by the falling of a wall. December 18, Mr. J. F. Plummer was
burned to death from the explosion of alcohol, and on the 23d two children
of Mrs. Dohei'ty, in Block court, were suffocated by smoke.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 221
Mayor Beujamiu Seaver aucl the Board of Aldermen, ou December 31,
1852, again revised the ordinances of the department. About the only change
made, however, was the repealing of Sections 12, 13, and 28 of the act of
1851.
Assistant Engineers Joshua Jacobs, Louis Beck, and Nathaniel Seaver
were succeeded during 1853 by Samuel S. Nutting, Daniel C Melvon, and
Joseph A. Dunbar. A new house was erected for Engine No. 6 and Hydrant
Company No. 3, on Wall street. Despatch Engine Company, No. 1 1, on Court
square, vice No. 6, and Tremont Engine Company, 12, Tr^ont street vice No.
8 were organized during the year ; these were taken from the reserves in Derne
street. Engine No. 10 quarters was moved to Meridian street. The engine
and ladder house on Friend street, corner of North Market, was sold at auction
February 24, and the ladder (No. 1), was provided quarters in a part of the
primar}' school on Friend street, on March 14 : the expense for altering the
same was $1,000.
All the fines deducted from the pay of the members during a period of
-one year, amounting to $593, were turned over to the Charitable Fire Asso-
ciation ou February 17. The first communication received by the City Council
regarding steam fire-engines was from Mr. John Thorndike, on February 28.
No action was taken in the matter at the time. The firemen were reproved
by the Mayor and Aldermen, on April 11, for taking goods while at a fire.
The members stated that they had no idea that any harm had been done in
so doing, whereupon the statutes relating to the matter were ordered printed,
and posted in each engine-house, so they could learn of the heavy penalty
for stealing articles taken from a building on fire. May 31, six of the
Phillips' Patent Fire Annihilators were purchased at an expense of S250.
Two additional hydrants were placed in the city proper, and six at East
Boston.
Changes in compan}^ officers for 1853 : Engine No. 1, Ruel H. Bean, as-
sistant ; W. H. Cunningham, clerk. No. 2, Daniel Weston, Jr., captain;
George Brown, assistant ; A. J. Drake, clgrk ; No. 3, Samuel N. Tucker,
captain ; G-. W. Snow, assistant ; A. C. Wass, clerk. No. 4, Alvin Vinal,
captain ; John S. Damrell, clerk. No. 5, A. Horton, captain ; E. W. Milliken,
assistant ; W. H. Rummer}', steward ; G. B. Chapin, clerk. No. 7, W. C.
Savage, captain ; G. W. Tarbox, assistant ; Thomas Whipple, clerk. No. 9,
Benjamin Brown, clerk. No. 10, E. Burrill, captain ; Joseph Baker, assistant ;
J. M. Tucker, steward. Despatch Engine Company, No. 11, vice^o. 6, house
in Court square, David Chamberlain, captain; Stephen B. Kendall, assistant;
H. A. Hunting, steward; H. P.Grant, clerk. Tremont Engine Company, No.
12, vice No. 8, house in Tremont street, Charles Carver, captain ; R. D. Griggs,
assistant; J. W. Leatherbee, clerk; David Hanson, steward. Ladder 1,
Jeremiah S. Stevens, clerk. No. 3, Z. E. Smith, captain; R. Mugford, as-
sistant; Lucius Cole, steward ; James Kelley, clerk. Hydrant Company No. 1,
C E. Dunton, captain ; J. E. Rich, assistant ; G. H. Delano, steward ; G. T.
222 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Pratt, clerk. No. 2, George Newton, assistant, Jacob Smith, steward ; W.
W. Bass, clerk. No. 3, A. Tonldu, assistant ; C. A. Sharon, clerk. No. 4^
disbanded. No. 6, I. F. Crafts, assistant ; Joseph Barnes, clerk.
Two hundred and five alarms were soimded during 1853 ; the loss to
property from January, 1853, to January, 1854, being $268,621; insurance,
$204,173. None of these fires were very extensive, but there were several fatal
accidents. While Engine Company No. 11 was responding to an alarm on
September 17, for a fire at Mrs. Nasou's, Liverpool street, East Boston, Ezra
J. Wiley, a member of the company, was run over by the engine, and
instantly killed. April 28, the building at 127 Endicott street was destroyed,
the sparks from which badly damaged the roof of the Old North Church,
on Salem street. November 1, while the same engine company was
on their way to a fire at 568 Commercial street, the engine run over and killed
a citizen named John Little. Two children playing with matches, on No-
vember 25, set fire to a bed in the building located at 6 Sturgis place, and
were suffocated ; and on December 1, a bed in the house at 63 Atkinson street
was set fire by an intoxicated person, and burnt to death a son of Mr. J.
O'Connor.
Two new engines were built for Engines Nos. 11 and 12 by Hunneman
& Co., during 1854, and the old ones were pieced in reserve, under the reser-
voir on Derne street, with old No. 20. The old engine at the House of
Correction was sold on January 23. Another new engine was built by the
same firm for Webster Company No. 13, to be stationed at East Boston, on
Webster street, but the company was not organized until the next year. The
name of Despatch Hydrant Company, No. 2, was changed to Union, No. 2,
on March 27. A new house was erected for Engine No. 7 on Purchase street,
while Engine-house No. 1 was thoroughly repaired, and Despatch Engine
Company, No. 11, had their name changed to Baruicoat, No. 11, on May 22.
At this date permission was given the department to parade on July 4, 1854.
Suffolk and Franklin Hydrant Companies w^ere ordered, on May 10, to have a
four-wheel carriage, instead of a two-wheel ; and on December 14, the hydrant
companies were instructed not to take their carriages out with a full comple-
ment of hose, unless there was a fire in their district. The number of mem-
bers was at the same time increased to twenty.
Quite a disturbance was created in the department by the resignation of
Chief Barnicoat, on April 24. There had existed for some time previous a
jealousy among certain members of the Board of Engineers and members of
the companies, who were supported by some of the City Councilmen. These
rivals of the chief had devised several plans to remove him from office, but
none had succeeded ; he lived down all the charges made against him ;
and, on the above date, sent in a letter of resignation, immediately after which
he was appointed Superintendent of Lamps, a position he held until his
death. James Quinn was nominated for his successor, but his election was
not concurred. On May 1, a certain Alderman made a motion that, as there
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 223
was no oue filling the office of chief, the position remain vacant, and the en-
gineers should rank as follows : Quinn, 1st ; Smith, 2d ; Clark, 3d ; Bird, 4th ;
Thorne, 5th; Martin, 6th ; Nutting, 7th; Melvin, 8th, and Dunbar, 9th; but
no action was taken in the matter. At almost every meeting of the Council
some one was nominated to fill this office, but both branches could not agree
until December 18, when Elisha Smith was appointed.
A committee was formed during the year to visit the machine-works of
L. B. Latra, of Cincinnati, Ohio, to inspect the steam fire-engine that was
in working order in that city. On their return home ,the committee recom-
mended the purchase of one for this city. Therefore, on April 17, the City
Council appropriated 19,000 for this purpose, and soon after a contract w^as
made with the firm for the manufacture of the famous steamer " Miles
Greenwood," named in honor of the chief of the department of that city.
Mr. James Quinn succeeded Assistant Engineer Melvin as a member of
the board during 1854. Additional hydrants placed in service during the year
were seven in city proper, eight at South Boston, and ten at East Boston.
Department changes: Engine No. 1, R. H. Bean, captain; W. H. Cun-
ningham, assistant ; F. Richards, clerk. No. 2, J. B. Hill, clerk. No. 3, dis-
banded September 4, and a new compauy organized. No. 4, J. S. Damrell,
assistant; T, Gerrish, clerk. No. 5, John S. Maxwell, captain ; W. M. Rum-
ery, assistant ; David Riley, steward ; S. W. Holt, clerk. No. 7, D. L. M.
Dwiuell, captain; C. C. Henry, assistant; S. A. Crosby, steward. No. 9,
J. P. Somerby, captain; B. Brown, assistant; D. M. R. Dow, steward; B.
Varne}^, clerk. No. 11, John Colter, captaiu ; H. P. Grant, assistant ; H.
G. Spear, clerk. No. 12, quarters moved to Warren street, B. F. Mills,
captain; David Connery, assistant; R. D. Griggs, steward. Ladder No. 1,
Jeremiah S. Stevens, assistant; C. H. Merritt, clerk. No. 2, J. W. Seavey,
assistant; Charles Simmons, stewai'd ; S. Goodwin, clerk. No. 3, R. Mug-
ford, captaiu; O. F. Marshall, assistant; John Mugford, steward; J. H.
Barton, clerk. Hydrant Company No. 1, J. B. Shattuck, assistant ; Alfred
Williams, clerk. No. 2, S. Stone, captain ; W. W. Boss, assistant ; E. H.
Young, steward ; J. Smith, clerk. No. 3, A. Tonkin, captain ; J. Nevins,
assistant; J. T. Rice, steward. No. 5, W H. Ford, assistant; S. E. Ross,
clerk.
The number of alarms for the year was two hundred and two, during
which the loss to property was $206,836 ; insurance, $129,160. Probably
the largest fire was the burning of the steamer "North Ocean" in the har-
bor on November 24. Charles C. Henry, of Engine No. 7, and J. Went-
worth and W. B. Follett, of No. 6, were badly injured on February 16, at a
fire in Howard street. March 2, R. S. Evans, of No. 11, was run over by the
■ engine, and seriously injured, and on the 19th, L. K. Putney, of No. 5, fell
from a ladder at a fire at 550 Washington street, and broke his leg.
New engines were building during 1855 for Engine Companies Nos. 1,
6, 10, and 13, and new houses for Nos. 8 and 13. Twenty- two additional
224 JIISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
hydrants were put in service in the city proper, five at South Boston, and
eleven at East Boston. The name of Protective Hydrant Company, No. (3,
was changed to Deluge, No. 6, on May 4. An act of the City Council was
approved on February 3, authorizing the city to appropriate money for the
relief of families of disabled firemen. The name of Ladder Company No. 2
was changed on June 20, to Washington.
Messrs. Nathaniel W. Pratt, Bailey T. Mills, and David Chamberlain
were appointed on the Board of Engineers during 18oo, vice Martin and Mel-
vin. The changes in company officers were as follows: Engine No. 1, G.
F. Gould, steward. No. 3, reorganized, E. W. Milliken, captain; G. S.
Williams, assistant; A. O. Becklow, steward; C. H. Ric^, clerk. No. 4,
John S. Damrell, captain; J. Prince, assistant; A. H. Towne, steward; R.
B. Farrar, clerk. No. 6, B. H. Baile}^ steward. No. 7, Charles C. Henry,
captain ; Thomas Whipple, assistant ; William Shelton, steward ; F. L. Keay,
clerk. No. 9, A. Currant, steward. The name of Old North, No. 10, was
changed to Dunbar, No. 10, in honor of Assistant Engineer Joseph Dunbar,
of East Boston; Joseph Baker, captain; Davis Damon, assistant; A. P.
Truman, steward; John Gray, clerk. No. 11, W. H. Colburn, captain; W.
D. Palmer, assistant; E. H. Dwyer, steward; F. W. Smith, clerk. No. 12,
David Connery, captain ; O. R. Robbins, assistant ; J. H. Miner, clerk.
Webster Engine Company, No. 1.3, house in Paris street, organized the en-
suing year; Joseph H. Harrington, captain; George K. Putnam, assistant;
A. C. Dyer, steward; William H. Lewis, clerk. Ladder 1, Jeremiah S.
Stevens, captain ; P. Collier, assistant. No. 8, O. F. Marshall, captain ;
E. W. Warren, assistant; E. O. Farrar, steward; J. F. Marston, clerk.
Hydrant Company No. 1, A. Williams, assistant; Edward Gross, clerk. No.
2, M. C. Thompson, assistant; H. L. Houghton, steward. No. 3, J. S.
Ryan, captain; H. M. Orcutt, steward; W. H. Palmer, clerk. No. 6,
Joseph Barnes, captain; T. B. Tilton, assistant; Horatio Ely, steward ; W.
B. Rand, clerk.
One hundred and four times, during 1855, did the bells peal forth their
waniing notes of fire, by which $537,604 Avorth of property was destroyed, the
insurance on the same being $361,04 7. The largest of these conflagrations
was caused, on April 27, by a person throwing a lighted match against a bale
of cotton after lighting his pipe, in a wooden building owned by Joseph W.
Revere, located on Battery wharf. The wind was blowing from the north-
west, and in a short time a block of wooden warehouses and a hundred bales
of cotton were on fire. The flames soon' extended south, across the dock, to a
range of wooden buildings on Ferry avenue. The smoke was stupefying, and
the heat so intense that the firemen were driven at times from their engines.
The ships "Porsalia" and "Diana" were totally destroyed, and the ships
"Middlesex," "General Berry," "John Bertram," brig " Fawn," schooners
"Robert Stone," "Oregon," "Express," "Moses Eddy," and "General
Veazie " were badly damaged. A large building on Constitution wharf was
HISTOMY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 225
burned, also all the buildings owned by the People's Ferry Company. The
fire crossed to Lincoln's wiiarf, where several buildings used for storing
cotton and other merchandise were burned. A wood and coal yard on the
wharf was on fire, and a large quantity of coal and wood destroyed. During
the burning of the ship "Diana," Perkins Engine, No. 2, was stationed on
board, but the heat grew so intense that the engine was abandoned ; the
brave "fire laddies," however, soon after rallied, and saved their machine.
Engine No. 6 and a relief engine in charge of Company No. 7, also Engine
No. 2, of Chelsea, were destro^'ed, while several of them were badly damaged.
The area of ground burned over was about ten acres. Total loss, $500,000.
Of this amount $298,179 was on property, of which $191,315 was covered by
insurance.
In the revision of the ordinances of the department during 1855, it was
stipulated that no ofBcer, having been dismissed, should be reinstated unless
by a vote of the chief and two-thirds of the assistant engineers, which vote
had to be confirmed by the Board of Aldermen, and could not pass that body
without a two-thirds vote. A committee, termed the Conmiittee on Fire
Alarms, was to be appointed during the month of January each year, to con-
sist of two aldermen and three members of the Common Council, which com-
mittee Avas given the management of the entire plant connected with that
branch of the service. They had power to nominate all persons engaged in
its workings, and to establish their compensation, and determine who was
to be intrusted with tlie care of the keys of the signal-boxes. In the month
of May a Superintendent of Fire Alarms was to be appointed by the City
Council. The committee had power to alter and change the rules and direc-
tions governing the system of working the alarms, and to have them printed
as a city ordinance, but the City Council could annul the same. A fine of
from $2 to $50 was imposed on any person who should injure the signal-
boxes, wires, etc., or give a false alarm.
The steam-engine Miles Greenwood was put in service three times,
during which it did not prove all that was desired. To bring it to suit the
requirements of the department, it was thoroughly repaired during 1856,
under the superintendence of Mr. Latra, the builder, in the shop of Messrs.
Hinckley & Drury, but even after this it was found to be too cumbersome for
general use. A house was built for its accommodation in the city stable
yards, on Harrison avenue. Previous to this it was located at Haymarket
square, and a temporary company, consisting of L. E. Smith, William Sorrell,
and others, was formed May 29. The first fire at which it was of any ser-
vice was on April 12, at which time Gerrish Market was consumed. Webster
Engine Company, No. 13, was disbanded on April 22, but a volunteer com-
pany was formed as soon as the new house on Sumner street, East Boston,
was erected. Twenty-one additional reservoirs were placed in the city proper,
twenty-four at South Boston, and six at East Boston. The average distance
of the hydrants from each other was about two hundred and fifty feet.
226 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Assistant Engineers Thorn, Quinn, Colburn, and Mills resigned during
1856, and were succeeded by Messrs. David C. Melvin, R. S. Martin, George
F. Hibbard, and Zeuas E. Smith. F. A. Colburn succeeded Mr. Henry Hai-t
to his former position as secretary to the board.
The death of Chief Engineer Smith was reported to the Council on No-
vember 24. All the members of the Board of Engineers and City Govern-
ment attended the funeral. On December 15, Assistant Engineer George W.
Bird was unanimously elected his successor. An agreement was made by the
engineers of Boston and surrounding towns and cities, whereby, in case they
thought the services of another department were needed, they were to send a
card by a police-officer, and immediately after give the alarm. A hydrant
company was located on Northampton street, opposite the Catholic church, on
May 26, and the old engine on the South Bay land was removed there. En-
gine No. 7 had its name changed, July 7, to Tiger. On December 18, the
annual parade of the department was prohibited.
Company changes for 1856: Engine No. 1,- W. H. Cunninghain, cap-
tain; W. H. Kakare, assistant. No. 3, H. L. Willingford, assistant; W. A.
Spooner, steward ; G. D. Chubbuck, clerk. No. 7, William M. Rumery,
captain ; S. W. Holt, assistant ; E. H. Goodhue, clerk. No. 6, B. H. Bailey,
captain ; C. C. Geyer, assistant ; William Blake, steward ; C. C. Wilson,
clerk. No. 7, E. L. Leavitt, clerk. No. 8, B. Tarbox, assistant; J. T.
Parkhurst, clerk. No. 9, J. H. Perkins, assistant. No. 10, George Tucker,
assistant; A. P. Inman, steward. No. 11, H. A. Hunting, captain; C. B.
Maxfield, assistant ; D. S. Newell, steward. No. 12, O. R. Robbins, cap-
tain ; J. Hawkins, assistant ; L. W. Shaw, clerk. Steam fire-engine Miles
Greenwood, city stables, Henry H. Drayton, captain ; William Lovell, assist-
ant ; T. H. Badlam, steward ; Francis Hall, clerk ; seven members ; also an
engineman at a salai'y of $806 per year, and a fireman at $1.50 per day; it
was equipped with fifty feet of suction hose and nine hundred and fifty feet of
leading hose; company disbanded on August 1. Ladder No. 1, M. Place,
assistant. No. 2, Charles Simmons, captain ; T. Holmes, steward ; W. F.
Hayes, clerk. Hydrant No. 1, Ed. Gross, assistant; A. Williams, clerk.
No. 2, M.' C. Thompson, captain ; H. L. Houghton, assistant ; J. Smith,
steward; George Newton, clerk. No. 3, J. Nevins, captain; J. S. Ryan, as-
sistant; John Colter, clerk. No. 5, George C. Fernald, assistant. No. 6,
W. R. Hill, clerk.
At the one hundred and sixty-seven fires dui-ing 1856, $409,553 worth of
property was destroyed, on which was $287,832 insurance. The most notice-
able fire of the year broke out a few moments before one o'clock on the after-
noon of April 12, in the attic of the large six-story brick building at the
intersection of Sudbury, Portland, and Friend streets, known as the Gerrish
Market. A high wind prevailed at the time, and the height of the building-
prevented the firemen from throwing any water into the upper stories. For
nearly an hour the flames were unchecked in their progress from room to
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 227
room, and when the fire had penetrated down into the fourth story, the upper
portion of the walls were entirely hidden from view by the immense body of
flame. By the aid of ladders the firemen were now able to throw a few
streams of water into the third story ; but it did very little service, so that tlie
firemen turned their attention to saving the buildings in the neighborhood.
Engines from Roxbury, Cambridge, Charlestown, and Chelsea rendered effi-
cient service, while the steam-engine, Miles Greenwood, did good service,
until one o'clock in the morning, when the fire was under control. The heat
of the fire caused a gas cesspool at the corner of Friend and Market streets to
explode, by which three men were badly hurt. Several buildings at the north
part of the city took fire from the sparks carried by the wind, but were extin-
guished with little damage. Loss, $139,454; insui'ance, $86,504.
The most terrible fire, for the extent of the loss of life, that the fire
department was called to witness, broke out July 29, in a large block of
buildings on North street. So rapid did the flames spread that the unfortu-
nate occupants had to make their exit by jumping from the windows, in doing
which, Margaret Sweeney and Mary Collins were killed, while Ellen Kallen,
Mary Kallen, Catherine Kallen. Ellen Wright, Emily Wright, and John
Wright, — refusing to make the terrible leap, — were burnt to death. Charles
W. Warren, a member of Ladder 3, was killed by the falling of a chimney,
and Newell Harding, Jr., P. Hackett, and J. W. Ryan, members of Engine
No. 21, were injured by falling bricks. Engines from Charlestown, Chelsea,
Cambridge, and Medford, were on hand, and two alarms were given to bring
the " Miles Greenwood " into service. Loss, $21,567 ; insurance, $17,750.
The court-house, in Court square, was damaged to the extent of $4,000
on April 2, by a fire caused by a lighted cigar being thrown in a wooden cus-
pidore filled with sawdust. James Quinu, of Engine No. 11, was run over
and badly injured by the apparatus, while going to a fire at 117 Friend street,
on August 31. Two children of Mrs. Andrews, of 5 Milton street, were
burnt to death September 1. East Boston was the scene of a very exten-
sive blaze on September 22, when the steam flour-mills of E. D. Brigham
& Co. were destroyed; loss, $103,000, fully insured. By the falling walls
the following members of the department were injured : Assistant Engineer
G. W. Bird ; Daniel Galencea, and Joseph Mack, Engine 7 ; Thaddeus Holmes,
Ladder 2 ; and Thomas Whipple, assistant foreman No. 7. December 2,
two children of Henry Chamberlain, of Athens street. South Boston, were
burned to death from playing with matches.
Otis N. Marston, Esq., was appointed assistant engineer during 1857,
vice Mr. Bird, promoted. Chief Bird, in his report for 1857, stated that the
steam-engine " Miles Greenwood," besides its unreliable machinery, was
heavy, its weight being between seven and eight tons ; but he recommended
steam fire-engines of a smaller size, and that one be built immediately, and
located in the neighborhood of Pearl street. The old one was sold July 27,
and the company dischai'ged.
228 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIBE DEPARTMENT.
The question of a parade by the firemen was one that received an abun-
dance of discussion in the City Council ; some members being for abolishing
the custom, as it was a useless expense, while others thought it an advan-
tage, as the citizens could each year see the full strength of the service. The
last parade occurred on Sept. 17, 1856, at the inauguration of the Franklin
statue. On May 8, an order was passed repealing the law forbidding parades,
and on Sept. 28, 1857, the department mai'ched through the cit3\
The position of special fire-police was created April 3, and Messrs.
James Goves and C. N. Chambers were appointed to fill that office. The
number of men serving in Ladder Company No. 2 was increased from
eighteen to twenty-four, on July 13. On December 21, Engine Company No.
12 and Hose Companies Nos. 2 and 3 were discharged for insubordination
at a fire in Spring street.
A new engine and house were built for Engine Company No. 14 the
following 3^ear, and located on Fourth street, between K and L streets, South
Boston Point. A new house was also built for Engine No. 13, on Chelsea
and Benuington streets, East Boston ; the company was organized February
9, and temporarily occupied a building on Chelsea street. Several improve-
ments were made in the equipment of the department, one of which was the
introduction of springs for the engines and ladder-trucks. The chief recom-
mended that Hydrant Company No. 3 (or hose company as they were then
termed) be removed from the quarters with P2ngine No. 6, on Wall street, to
a building in the vicinity of Brighton street, and that Engine Company 7 also
be reni.ovt'd from that part of the city, as it was difficult to keep a good com-
pany together. Charter Hose Company, No. 4, was organized on Northampton
street. The salaries of the leading hosemen, rakemen, and axemen were fixed
at the same rate ($125 per year) as the other assistant officers, while the fire-
men at East Boston, South Boston, and Hose Company No. 4 were paid as fol-
lows : foremen, $100 ; other officers, S75 ; and members, $60 per year. Eleven
additional hydrants were placed in the city proper, eight at South Boston,
and four at East Boston.
At a meeting of the Board of Engineers, held July 3, 1857, an order
was passed forbidding any person but members of the department to assist
in drawing or working the apparatus, while each member was obliged to put
on his badge previous to going on duty. Every member failing to do so
was fined the same as for absence, and members or others congregating at the
engine-house contrary to the ordinance were to be ordered out by the company
officers ; refusal by members to obey would be considered cause for discharge ;
substitutes were to notify the officers" in charge before going on duty. These
orders were approved by the City Council, August 17, 1857.
Department promotions and changes : Engine No. 1, G. 0. Twiss, stew-
ard ; T. H. Evans, clerk. No. 2, Peter Lincoln, clerk. No. 3, Washington,
near Dover street, George D. Chubbuck, assistant; S. K. Morris, steward;
W. H. Stackpole, clerk. No. 4, John Prince, captain ; R. B. Farrar, assist-
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIBE BEPABTMENT. 229
ant; W. H. Bradford, clerk. No. 5, E. M. Johnson, steward. No. 6, C.
C. Wilson, captain ; A. H. Jordan, assistant ; C. C. Geyer, steward ; J.
W, D. Parker, clerk. No. 7, J. A. Allen, steward. No. 8, Benjamin Tar-
box, captain ; J. S. Jacobs, assistant ; Daniel Rand, clerk. Engine 9 house
moved temporarily to Sumner street. East Boston. No. 10, William Hall,
Jr., steward. No. 11, John Tobias, clerk. No. 12, C. H. Prince, steward.
Webster, No. 13, Chelsea street, East Boston, T. B. Tilton, captain ; C. E.
Turner, assistant ; A. G. Bacon, steward ; Hiram Weston, clerk. Ladder
Company 1, Moses Place, captain; P. Collier, assistant. No. 2, George W.
Crafts, clerk. No. .3, George W. Warren, captain ; J. F. Marston, assistant ;
Charles Frizell, clerk. Hose No. 2, Samuel Abbott, assistant ; Benjamin
King, clerk. No. 3, Louis Moore, assistant; J. S. Ryan, clerk. Charter
Hose Company, No. 4, Northampton street, Andrew Neville, captain ; R. H.
Carley, assistant; James Whittle, steward; J. W. Gamage, clerk. No. 5,
W. H, Gardner, clerk. No. 6, Jonas Underwood, assistant.
The department was called out one hundred and sixty-four times during
the 3^ear ; the loss to property being $258,231 ; insurance, $233,785. King's
Chapel, corner of School and Treraont streets, caught fire January 18, but
was .extinguished by several members of the department with buckets. Charles
Litchfield, a member of Engine 8, was badly injured on February 1, while at a
fire at 99 Cambridge street, by coming in contact with Ladder 1. At a fire at
8 Stillman street. May 20, David Fisher and Mrs. Fitzgerald were burned to
death.
230 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTER YTII.
18,58-18()2.
THE unprovements made in placing the apparatus on springs was found to
be of special advantage, and during 1858 the plan was adopted through-
out the entire department. New hose-carriages of the double-wheel pattern
were recommended by Chief Bird for general adoption, as they carried twice
the amount of hose, and required five less men in a company than the single-
wheel wagons, the cost of which being offset by the reduction of the number
of men to pay. The subject of steam-engines was one that received an abun-
dant amount of public controversy, the old firemen clinging to their hand-
engines, claiming them to possess merits that those operated by steam could
not have, while the more practical and far-sighted saw that the former machines
were no match in efficiency and general utility to the latter. To convince the
general public, a trial was made on August 31, under the immediate direction
of the joint special committee for the City Government, which proved entirely
satisfactory. The first prize of $500 was given to the Philadelphia engine,
built by Messrs. Reaney & Co., of Philadelphia, Pa. ; the second of $300, to
the "Lawrence," built by Messrs. Scott & Bean, of Lawrence, Mass., and
the third of $200, to the " Elisha Smith," built by G. W. Bird & Co., of
East Boston. The chief and a majority of the Board of Engineers were in
favor of steam, and on the recommendation of the former in his report for
1858, two steamers were purchased on December 4, also one four-wheeled
hose-carriage. Two small hose- carriages were placed at the Mill-dam and
Washington Village, each with three hundred and fifty feet of hose, under the
care of responsible parties, not in the department, to be used in case of fire in
the immediate vicniity. Sixteen additional hydrants were added to the service
during the year.
An appropriation was made bj^ the City Council, on May 10, of $1,000
for a burial-lot in Forest-Hill cemetery, for firemen, and on the 22d, $1,000 was
appropriated for disabled members of the department. The following engine
companies were disbanded: No. 5, July 26; No. 11, December 16, for dis-
obedience of orders ; and Nos. 6 and 7 to make room for the steam-engine
companies, which were put in serxace December 16. September 13, the engine-
house in Purchase street was ordered to be sold.
Assistant Engineers C. S. Clark, R. S. Martin, and O. N. Marston,
were succeeded by Messrs. John S. Damrell, Charles C. Henry, and
William A. Green, while George H. Allen was appointed secretary. Pro-
motions, etc., in the department: Engine No. 1, William H. Cunning-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 231
ham, captain; H. H. Abbott, assistant; C. F. Karcher, steward; W. L.
Pierce, clerk. No. 2, George Brown, captain; J. B. Hill, assistant; T.
Hatchings, steward. No. 4, R. B. Favrar, captain ; W. H. Bradford, assistant ;
Charles P. Stetson, clerk. No. 5, H. L. Wallingford, captain ; E. M. Johnson,
assistant; David Griner, steward; Thomas Merritt, clerk. No. 6, Lewis
Moore, assistant ; J. W. C. Prescott, clerk. No. 7, Thomas "Whipple, captain ;
E. L. Leavitt, assistant; J. R. Symes. No. 9, J. P. Somerby, captain;
Benjamin Varney, assistant ; Anthony Currant, steward ; Wm. Wentworth ;
the quarters of the company was again in Paris street. No. 10, George A.
Tucker, captain ; John Gray, assistant ; Gershom Sherman, steward ; M. H.
Cross, clerk. No. 11, James Gibson, captain ; Charles B. Maxfield, assistant ;
D. S. Newell, steward; Thomas M. Regan, clerk. No. 12, O. R. Robbins,
captain; J. Hawkins, assistant; S. W. Shaw, clerk. No. 13, Hiram Weston,
captain ; A. M. Pollard, assistant ; M. C. George, clerk ; S. R. Spinney.
Engine Company, No. 14, organized during the year, and located on Fourth
street, between K and L streets, South Boston, James Chambers, captain ;
Samuel S. Lord, Jr., assistant; John H. Harrington, steward; George W.
Bail, clerk. Ladder Company 2, Benjamin C. Seaver, assistant; T. Holmes,
steward; W. T. Keene, clerk. No. 3, J. B. Prescott, clerk. Hose No. 1,
Charles E. Dunton, captain ; B. C. Brownell, assistant ; George H. Delano,
steward ; T. S. R. Britton, clerk. No. 2, M. C. Thompson, captain ; Benjamin
King, assistant ; J. Smith, steward ; John King, clerk. No. 4, Lovering
Hallett, assistant. No. 6, Joseph Barnes, captain; W. H. Poole, assistant;
H. Ely, steward; W. H. Rymill, clerk.
The three largest fires for 1858 were : May 2, at 133 to 139 Federal
street, the loss being $206,890 ; insurance, $163,440. Others on June 12, at
55 to 7o Milk street ; loss, $85,950; insurance, $75,250 ; and December 18,
the Quiucy school-house at the corner of Tyler and Hudson streets ; loss
$50,000. At a fire in the building on Fourth street. South Boston, Feb-
ruary 11, several persons narrowly escaped being suffocated. One woman
jumped from an open window and died from its effects. Mr. H. A. Taylor, a
member of the department, had his leg broken by a falling building on Third
street, South Boston, on March 21. August 22, Mr. James Porter, of Engine
4 had his leg broken by the upsetting of the apparatus at a fire on Pearl street ;
and on December 3, a child of Mrs. Collins, at 21 Hamburg street, was
smothered to death. The whole number of alarms for the year were one
hundred and sixty-one ; loss of property, $390,650 ; insurance, $316,207.
The advantage of steam-power over manual labor in the extinguishing of
fires, was clearly^ demonstrated during the ensuing year by the excellent work
performed by the two small steam-engines that were purchased last year.
One of these machines was lodged in the house of Hand-engine No. 6, on
Wall street, and called Eclipse, No. 6. It was built during 1858 by Messrs.
Silsbee, Mynderse, & Co., of Seneca Falls, N.Y. The other was called Law-
rence, No. 7, and lodged in the quarters of hand-engine of the same number,
232 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
ou Purchase street. It was built during 1858 by Messrs. Beau & Scott, of
Lawrence, Mass. ; but neither of these engines liad a regular organized com-
pany, as they were only worked under a contract with the builders for one year
on trial. P^ngiue No. 8 organized with J. S. Jacobs as foreman, who was the
first permanent captain of a regular organized company in charge of a steam
fire-engine in this city, the company being commissioned November 1, 1859.
This engine, however, was too heavy, weighing eleven thousand pounds, and
was exchanged with its makers on September 1, 1860, for one of seventy-three
hundred and thirtj^ pounds, which was stationed in a house on North Benuet
street. The other members of the company were J. A. Tisdale, engineer ; E. C.
Sholes, fireman ; G. W. Brown, driver ; and H. Allen, Charles H. Blake, F.
R. Crane, C. H. Marks, and G. AV. Sanborn, liosemen. Steam-engine Com-
pany No. B was regularly organized on December 1, with the following com-
pany : S. Abbott, captain ; Theodore Hutchnis, engineer ; J. S. Young,
fireman; L. P. Mayo, driver; H. E. Chase, S. D. Harrlngtoii, H. V. Hay-
ward, F. M. Hines, and G. L. Pike, hosemen ; house, on Washington street,
near Dover. Steam-engine Company No. 1 organized December 19 ; William
H. Cunningham, captain ; A. H. Perry, engineer ; C. W. Cheney, fireman ;
Amos Cummings, driver ; Daniel Hallett, Robert Henderson, Appleton Lathe,
N. H. Tirrell, and George O. Twiss, hosemen. The engine was built by the
Boston Locomotive Works, from plans of Messrs. Bean & Stone ; its weight
was six thousand and eighty pounds, and was lodged in old No. I's house, on
Broadway, near Dorchester street. South Boston. Steam-engine Company
No. 9 organized December 26, with J. P. Soraerby, captain ; C. AV. Doten,
engineer ; Joseph Grace, fireman ; S. L. George, driver ; G. L. Jenkinson,
Andrew Lewis, William Pray, Benjamin Varney, and Simeon Weston, hose-
men. The engine was built by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, of
Manchester, N.H., and weighed seventy-eight hundred and thirty-eight
pounds, and was stationed at old No. 9's house. East Boston. Each of these
engines had a hose-carriage attached, which weighed from seven hundred to
thirteen hundred pounds. The engineer, fireman, and driver were the only
members permanently employed, and who remained at the house.
In his report for 1859, Chief Bird states, in reference to steam-engines : —
I would recommend that, as soon as may be, the department should be reorganized by
the thorough introduction of light steam fire-engines. I recommend this, not only because
it is a matter of labor-saving, but from reasons of economy ; for it can be clearly demon-
strated to cost the city twenty per cent, less to support a steam fire department, than the
old method has cost the past few years.
Old Melville, No. 6, was placed in the house formerly used by the " MUes
Greenwood," as a relief engine, being the only one not in active use in the
service. No hydrants were built during the year, being the first season passed
since the water was introduced that the city did not appropriate money for a
number of these water supplies.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 233
The following engine companies disbanded : No. 8, on October 31 ; 9 and
10, December 26 ; and Hose 6 was transferred to the house occupied by
Engine No. 10 on Meridian street. Soon after, the company was discharged
on account of the remoteness of the residence of several of the members from
the hose-house. Engine No. 3, December 8 ; Nos. 1 and 2, December 19.
No. 2 was discharged on June 13, on account of disgraceful conduct. The
name of Union Hose Company was changed on October 12, to Dispatch.
The compensation of the members of the steam-engine companies was
fixed, on December 8, as follows : Foremen, $42 per month ; engiuemeu, $60 ;
firemen, $40 ; drivers, $40, and $125 per year to members.
Some trouble was occasioned in the department by the unfairness of the
awarding of a silver trumpet which was given to the most efficient company
at the 3'early muster. The matter was settled on December 23, by a vote of
the Council, whereby it was deposited with the City Treasurer. Some of the
engine companies, with their machines, attended the parade held in New York,
October 17.
Assistant Engineer Hibbard was succeeded, during 1859, by Mr. George
Brown, the changes in the companies being as follows : Engine No. 1, Oscar
Dwelley, captain; H. A. Taylor, assistant; G. C. Ballard, clerk. No. 2,
F. B. Boardman, captain ; T. C. Byrnes, assistant. No. 5, Thomas Merritt,
assistant ; John Ray, clerk. Nos. 6 and 7 replaced by steam-engine. No. 8,
John S. Jacobs, captain ; Albert Pearson, clerk ; no assistant. No. 11, John
Tobias, captain; John A. Fynes, assistant. No. 13, Chelsea street. East
Boston, Charles E. Turner, captain ; William B. Currant, assistant ; G. W.
Sargent, steward. No. 14, W. S. Locke, assistant ; G. N. Page, clerk.
Hose Company No. 2, G. E. King, captain; C. L. Melvin, assistant; B. P.
Stowell, clerk. No. 4, Irving Hallett, captain ; C. T. Coburn, assistant ;
J. C. Fallon, clerk.
The lai'gest fire that happened during 1859 broke out February 6, at
the mechanical bakery of Mr. J. G. Russell, on Commercial street. Loss to
this building, $160,000 ; insurance, $130,000 ; total loss of the eighteen other
firms that were burnt out, $49,700, nearly covered by insurance. A $180,-
000 fire occurred at the Sailors' Home, corner of Broad and Purchase streets,
on the 29th of the same month. On May 12, a building on North Charles
street fell, during the progress of a fire on the street, and injured a number
of people. April 3 the Suffolk Flour Mills at the Eastern Railroad wharf,
was consumed; loss, $38,000; fully insured. The House of Reformation
at Deer Island was burnt July 21 ; loss, $25,000. And on October 31
the sugar-house of Mr. Seth Adams, on Gouch street, was laid in ashes ; loss,
$130,000; insurance, $125,000.
The entire department was equipped with steam fire-engines and horse hose-
carriages during 1860. Several steam-engines were in use previous to Septem-
ber 1 , but it was not until after this date that it was an entire steam depai't-
meut. This, as a matter of course, resulted in a new ordinance, which was
234 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
passed June 6, 1860, which repealed the ordinance of February 12, 1850,
August 25, 1856, and December 26, 1856. From the new law we take the'
following : The Chief and nine Engineers, also a Secretary to the board were to
be chosen annually by the City Council, in the months of January or February.
The secretary was to perform the duty of clerk to the board, and such other
duties as the Chief or Engineer, by the Rules and Regulations ordered, which
were to be approved by the Board of Aldermen ; to give an account of the
appropriations made by tlie city for the use of the department, and of the ex-
penditures on account of the same. Also, a separate account of each company,
and publish them in full in the annual report of the Chief. After the Engineers
were chosen they were to organize themselves. Their Rules and Orders were
always subject to the approval of the Board of Aldermen. They were respon-
sible for the good order, etc., of the entire department. They had the con-
trol of all properties belonging to the service, and the superintendence over
the officers and members, and persons at fires. When absent from a fire they
were to report such to the Chief, who kept a record of the same, of which he
made a report stating the facts, etc., to the City Council every three months.
On the breaking out of a fire they were to take their badge of office, and exer-
cise proper measures to arrange the engines and other apparatus in the most
advantageous situation, to require and compel assistance from all persons
as well as members, and to appoint guards over goods removed from a build-
ing, and to repress all disorders. In case of a fire in an adjoining town, only
so many Engineers as the Chief previously designated, were to attend. The
Chief Engineer was in sole command at fires. His dutv was to examine into
the condition of all apparatus, and houses of the apparatus, of the department,
and, when repairs, alterations, etc., were to be made, he was to have it done
under the direction of the City Council ; all returns of officers, members, and
apparatus of the department were to be transmitted to the Board of Aldermen,
as well as all other communications relating to the affairs of the same ; to keep
fair and exact rolls of the respective companies, specify the tivae of admis-
sion and discharge, and age of each member ; critically examine all bills
and accounts, and certify, in writing, their correctness. He was to issue an
annual report of the entire works and condition of the department, in the
month of January. Should any person refuse the orders of the Engineer,
they were to be I'eported to the City Council. When three or more Engineers
thought i)roper, in order to prevent the further spreading of a fire, they had
power to demolish any building. Every steam fire-engine company was to
consist of an enginemau, fireman, and driver, — who were to be permanently
employed, and at all times about the house, — and six hosemen, whose term
of service continued from periods of six months each, all of whom were
appointed by the Mayor, with the advice and consent of the Board of Alder-
men. The number of hosemen could be increased from time to time, by the
determination of that body. The enginemen were given full care of the
engines, under the direction of the Boaj-d of Engineers, and all the property
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 235
"belonging to the city, for which they were held personally responsible. They
were also accountable for the proper discharge of the duties of the firemen and
drivers. The firemen were to perform all such duties as may be required of
them about the engine and house, including cleaning the hose. The drivers had
the care of the horse and stable, also to assist the firemen when required to do
so by the enginemen. The foreman had full charge at fires, the placing of the
engines, and to perform the same duty required of the clerk of a hose com-
pany. The hosemeu, under his direction, were to perform such duties as
were required of suction and leading hosemen of hand-engines as call-men.
The pay of the department, as established the ensuing year, was as
follows: Chief engineer, $1,200 per annum ; assistant engineer, $1,050; sec-
retary to Board of Engineers, $800 ; enginemen of steam-engines, $G0 ; firemen,
$50 ; drivers, $50 ; foremen in city proper, $150 ; mem.bers, $100 ; foremen m
East Boston, South Boston, and hose company in Northampton street, $100;
assistant foremen, clerks, stewards, hosemen, axe, and rakemeu in the above
location, $75 ; members of companies in above sections, $60 per annum. (See
Engineer's Report for 1860.)
Nine horse hose companies were introduced into the service during the
year, in the place of the six hand companies. Twenty-six horses were pur-
chased, with all the harnesses, blankets, and equipments complete ; while the
several houses were altered to accommodate the new order of things. Despite
all these changes, no material increase of appropriations was required over that
formerly applied to carry on the hand department, without the purchase of any
new apparatus. A new house for Hose Company No. 9 was constructed on
B street, South Boston, and a new house for Steam-engine No. 5, on Marion
street. East Boston ; the old hand company was discharged Aj^ril 2, as was
No. 1 1 . Six thousand feet of two and one-half-inch hose, of Bo3'd's patent, were
bought ; the increase in size from two-inch was occasioned by the introduction
of the steamers, and was used only hy them, the hose companies being equipped
with the smaller size. Hose-house No. 7, on River street, at the foot of Mount
Vernon street, was altered so as to accommodate a steam-engine. Each police
station was proAdded with a suitable quantity of ropes and stakes, with which
to close the streets in case of large fires. These were under the care of the
police department, who were requested to send a certain number of ofiicers to
each fire. Thirteen hydrants were added to the list of those in the city proper,
twenty-six at South Boston, and five at East Boston.
Eight hundred dollars were appropriated by the City Council, on February
24, for the relief of the families of deceased firemen. This order did not
pass the year previous. Ladder Company No. 3 was disbanded on the same
date for unbecoming conduct. Old Hand-engine Companies Nos. 6 and 1 1
were honorably discharged July 18, and on September 17 the same order
was given to Engine No. 14, while Hose Companies Nos. 1,9, and 3 were
reduced to nine meinbers. The office of special fire police did not give satis-
faction, as it was claimed to interfere with the duties of the Engineers ;
236 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
therefore, on July 18, the order was rescinded, and another passed, whereby
the Mayor was to appoint the Engineers as special police, to serve without
extra pay. An order was also passed, on September 5, to remove the names
from all engine, hose, and hook-and-ladder companies, and designate them by
numbers only ; this order was in force until June 2, 1868, when it was revoked.
The drivers of the hose and ladder carriages protested against being subject
to a less compensation than the drivers of enghies ; an order was therefore
passed on December 8 granting them the same pay. The houses of old Hose
No. 6 and Engine No. ^, in East Boston, Avere sold September 21.
The steam-engine companies placed in service during 1860 were as follows :
No. 6, house in Wall street, organized January 1 ; C. C. Geyer, captain ; John
Travers, engineman ; C. C. Wilson, fireman ; George Scott, driver ; Amos Cross,
T. J. Davis, J. W. D. Parker, C. L. Skelton, and J. W. Tiukham, hosemen.
No. 7, Purchase street, organized January 1 ; J. Q. Alley, captain ; John Ray,
engineman ; F. L. Grant, fireman ; Oliver Wilson, driver ; G. Abercrombie, A.
A. J. Bartlett, L. I. Geddings, L. Hodgdon, and George L. Imbert, hosemen ;
engine built by Bean & Scott, in Lawrence Machine Shop, Lawrence, Mass. ;
weight, ten thousand pounds. No. 4, in basement of City Hall, Court square
(quarters of old No. 11), organized May 7 ; J. Tobias, captain ; R. S. Jenness,
engineman; H. A. Chase, fireman; John Lewis, driver; J. A. Fynes, P. P.
Hackett, D. S. Newell, J. W. Regan, and Alexander Wilson, hosemen ; they
first had charge of the engine built by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company,
which was retained by them until September 17, when it was removed to the
house of Engine No. 2, from which time to December 15 the steamer in charge
of No. 2 was under their control, while the former engine was again returned
to this company ; weight, seven thousand six hundred pounds. No. o, house
on Marion street, East Boston, organized September 1 ; G. A. Tucker, captain ;
Josiah S. Battis, engineman; Gilbert Prior, fireman; Hoi'atio Ely, driver;
William Hall, Jr., C. J. Littlefield, G. Sherman, A. J. Smith, and Eben
Witherell, hosemen ; engine built by Amoskeag Manufacturing Co. ; weight,
seven thousand eight hundred and eighty-five pounds. ■
No. 2, house of old Spinney, No. 14, organized September 17; James
Chambers, captain ; Daniel Weston, engineman ; J. B. Gault, fireman ; M. A.
Jones, driver ; George W. Bail, E. H. Goodwin, J. B. Lord, William Rand,
and David Smith, hosemen ; engine built by the Amoskeag Manufacturing
Company, and had a double steam c^'^linder, with a high double-action
plunger pump ; weight, fifty-three hundred and eighty-five pounds.
Horse Hose Company No. 1, Salem street, organized April 1 ; B. C.
Brownell, captain ; A. L. Pearson, driver ; L. H. Felton, W. E. Harper,
E. K. Perkins, Uzziel Putnam, F. B. Leach, R. T. Stoddard, and W. H.
Weeks, hosemen. This carriage had but two wheels, with a single reel,
intended to convey one thousand feet of hose. It was built, as were all the
others, excepting No. 6, by Brigham, Mitchell, & Bird ; weight when
loaded, fifteen hundi'ed pounds. No. 2, Hudson street, organized May 1, B.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 237
King, captain ; John Smith, driver'; H. A. Barnes, John King, G. E. King,
C. L. Meloon, B. P. Stowell, John H. Stevens, and G. H. Welch, hosemen ;
weight, fifteen hundred pounds. No. 3, house in Friend street, organized
June 16; A. F. Gould, captain; R. F. Parron, driver; C. M. Babb, C. J.
Carrill, Dexter R. Deering, John Gilman, A. Smith, W. H. Tyler, and H.
N. Wilson, hosemen ; weight, fifteen hundred pounds. No. 8, house occu-
pied by old No. 12, on Warren near Tremont street, organized July 1 ; C. H.
Prince, captain ; William Blake, driver ; M. S. Dix, G. T. Frost, William H.
Flanders, P. J. Leeds, G. F. Harden, William J. McElwin, and M. H. Ridland,
hosemen ; the same weight as the others. No. 7, house occupied by old
No. 4, on River street, foot of Mt. Vernon street, organized August 1 ; R. B.
Farrar, captain ; A. H. Town, driver ; W. H. Bradford, D. F. Bartlett, E. W.
Gardner, Timothy Gerrish, F. W. Gough, James Porter, and G. E. Town,
hosemen. No. 4, Northampton street, organized August 18 ; L. Hallett, cap-
tain ; B. F. Thayer, driver ; J. L. Biclcford, C. T. Coburn, J. C. Fallon,
J. D. E. Hawkes, P. M. Marble, B. P. Norris, and John Soil, hosemen.
No. 0, on Shawmut avenue, near Canton street, organized August 17, W.
Lovell, captain ; Silas Lovell, driver ; F. A. Brigham, A. J. Emery, George
C. Fernald, S. A. Green, Reuben Hanaford, H. W. Jellison, and J. A.
Young, hosemen. No. 6, house occupied by old No. 13, at 391 Chelsea street.
East Boston, organized September 1 ; J. Barnes, captain ; Jacob Sherman,
driver; B. F. Cowdin, J. L. Jennison, W. H. Poole, J. W. Pringle, William
H. Rymill, Lincoln Stoddard, and J. L. Tewksbury, hosemen; carriage
built by Messrs. Hunneman & Co., of Roxbury, Mass., February, 1857, to
be run by hand, and was used in this manner until April 1, 1860, by Hose
Company No. 1, when it was altered, and used by that company until No.
6 was organized. No. 9, house on B street, near Broadway, South Boston,
occupied by old No. 2, organized November 1 ; O. P. Rowell, captain ; Benja-
min Donnell, driver ; T. C. Byrnes, N. C. Cogley, T. W. Goweu, Peter Lin-
coln, Alex McKenzie, W. B. Ray, and Frederick Wakefield, hosemen. This
carriage was built to run by hand, for company No. 2, and on May 1, 1860,
it was altered and used by that company, until No. 9 was organized. Hose
Nos. 6 and 9, were four-wheel carriages.
Ladder Company No. 1, Friend street, Moses Place, captain ; Phineas
Collier, assistant; C H. Merritt, clerk; J. S. Stevens, steward; W. H.
Brown, T. H. Briggs, J. L. Batcheldor, J. H. Chase, James Edwards, Asa
Freeman, E. B. Hines, O. W. Knowles, John Lyman, Alvah Morse, B.
Stover, George Stover, E. B. Stevens, J. H. Stevens, G. W. Thompson, D.
V. Wilson, I. H. AVai'e, Benjamin Wright, B. T. Warren, and George Ware,
members ; truck built by Messrs. Stevens & Pratt, of Boston. No. 2 at
old No. 10 house on Meridian street. East Boston; Charles Simmons, cap-
tain ; A. S. Turner, assistant ; B. H. Stimson, clerk ; T. Holmes, steward ;
S. B. Arey, G. W. Crafts, J. H. Elliot, W. F. Hayes, D. H. Jones, W. T.
Keen, John Keen, J. W. Seavey, B. C. Seaver, S. C. Stinson, and J. E.
238 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Thayer, members ; truck built by Mr. W. Hunt, East Boston. No. 3,
Harrison avenue, J. B. Prescott, driver and cleric ; J. F. Marston, L. M. Clif-
ford, C. B. Corey, J. A. Collins, E. li. Chubbuck, Daniel Downes, C. H.
Downes, S. L. Gowell, George Graves, A. Hutchinson, I. K. Jennings, R.
M. Libby, 0. W. Marston, George Mitchell, James Murray, Joseph Mclntire,
Ezra Mclntire, N. H. Plummer, J. Runey, R. F. Ricker, Robert Spear, B'. B.
Wright, and J. Whitcomb, members.
Besides the above companies, hose-carriages were stationed at the
following locations, for the more immediate protection of the neighborhood :
Mill-dam; Washington Village; rolling-mill, South Boston ; Adams School-
house, East Boston ; and two hundred and fifty feet of hose at Chickering's
piano factory, Tremont street, and one hundred and fifty feet at the kerosene-
oil works, East Boston. Old Hand-engine No. 12 was placed at the House of
Correction, South Boston, and old No. 8, at Deer Island. One small fuel
wagon was kept at the house of Engine 9, and two large ones in the engine-
house on East street. Apparatus not in use : three hydrant-carriages, three
hose-carriages, and Hand-engines Nos. 3, 4, 5, 9, 11, 13, and 14.
The number of alarms from September 1, 1859, to August 31, ISGO, was
one hundred and ninety-four, during which the loss of property amounted to
$521,383; insurance', $471,853. From September 1 to December 31, 1800,
there were fifty alarms, and $209,197 worth of property destroyed ; insurance,
$141,885. The largest of these occurred at 8.20 P.M., on February 5, at 42
Merchants' row, occupied by Messrs. Manning & Glover. The cause of the
fire is supposed to be of an incendiary origin. The buildmg Avas filled with
combustible materials for filling beds, etc., and there being openings from one
room to another, caused the fire to burn with great rapidity. It was a cold and
stormy night, the snow driven with blinding fur}', and the wind fanning the
fearful blaze. At 3 o'clock the walls, previously considered safe by every
member of the department, fell with a terrible crash, instantly killing Mr.
Charles Carter of Ladder 1 and Capt. Charles E. Dutton of Hose No. 1 .
Fourteen firms were burned out, the aggregate loss amounting to $105,000,
$95,000 of which were insured. February 5, Mrs. Alice O'Maley, of 3
Mechanic street, set fire to her clothing and was burned to death. At the fire
of the kerosene-oil works of Page & Mitchell, on Bennington street, East
Boston, March 9, a vat containing a large quantity of oil burst and set fire
to a dwelling-house, which was enveloped in flames so rapidly that Mr. Francis
Dunbar, who was removing goods, was suffocated. Another large fire
occurred on October 6, at a building occupied by a Mr. Souther and others, in
First street. South Boston ; loss $43,000, fully insured. December 26, Mary
Jane Geyer, of 3 Livingston street, was badly burned.
A new fire ordinance was passed August 20, 1861, and amended
on November 26. In this it cites that the members were to be paid quarterly,
and an}' member who did not serve the whole of that time, unless from sickness,
death, or removal from the city, would forfeit his recompense ; that each
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 239
ladder company should have three or more axemen and rakemeu ; evei'y
engine, hose, and ladder company should have a foreman and clerk, and
every ladder company an assistant foreman in addition, the. foreman and
assistant to be nominated annually by the menobers from among their mem-
bers. In the absence of the foreman, the senior hoseman was to take charge.
The engineers, when they considered it proper, could employ or permit one
member of each company to sleep in the house where, the apparatus was kept.
Two weeks vacation were allowed any member on such terms as agreed upon
by the Board of Engineers.
The Board of Engineers took action on the duties of stewards of ladder
companies, December 16, and ordered that each ladder company having no
permanent driver should have a steward, whose duty it was to kec[) the
apparatus ready for immediate use, and the house clean. The steward of
Ladder No. 2, in addition to these duties, was obliged to sleep in the house
where the ladders were kept, and to have his employment in the immediate
vicinity, so that he would be able to act as driver of the apparatus. A
running-card was also adopted by this body on June 28, 1861, and approved
by the Board of Aldermen, July 29.
On June 28, a house was erected at Washington Village for the accom-
modation of a hand-hose company. Within the year past, twenty-four reser-
voirs were thoroughly cleaned, and so arranged that water could be supplied
to them from the Cochituate pipes, which enabled the department to bring
more force to bear directly upon the fire through comparatively short lines.
Complaint was made by Chief Bird, in his report for 1861, of the lack of
interest displayed by the police at fires, they neglecting to bring the ropes
with which they were provided, or to " spring their rattles, crying 'fire,' and
mentioning the district and box of the section in which fire exists."
Department changes and appointments during 1861 : Engine No. 1, L.
Appleton, captain ; H. B. Fowler, J. W. Fowler, D. Hallett, B. F. Lucas,
and F. W. Wright, members. No. 2, John Brown, W. K. Best, and D.
H. Twiss, hosemen. No. 3, H. M. Hawkins, H. S. Hussey, and J. L.
Ryan, hosemen. No. 4, J. W. Regan, captain ; T. P. Bayley, P. A.
Mahoney, and C. Tracey, hosemen. No. 5, C. P. Cottle and J. M. Tucker,
hosemen. No. 6, John Ash, J. H. Estes, Walter Marten, and Benjamin
Thomas, hosemen. No. 7, George W. Bradford, Gr. H. Prescott, and C. G.
Smith, hosemen. No. 8, Archibald Smith, member. No. 9, S. L. Fowle,
A. A. Hamblin, P. Nutter, hosemen. Hose No. 1, H. F. McDonald and
E. F. Peirce, hosemen. No, 2, C. L. Ingram and R. L. Trout, hose-
men. No. 3, A. P. Hawkins, captain ; J. F. Bolton, A. F. Gould, G.
H. Pike, John Ronaraus. No. 4, W. W. Graves, hoseman. No. 5, W.
H. Gardner and W. E. Manley, hosemen. ■ No. 7, William Parker, hose-
man. No. 8, Walter Dalrymple, Addison Getchel, William H. Munroe,
and H. F. Young, hosemen. No. 9, T. C. Byrnes, captain ; Charles Allen,
G. H. Delano, and M. H. Libb^'^, hosemen. Hand-hose Company No. 10,
240 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Joseph Frye, captain ; H. T. Bowers, steward ; E. Ashcroft, J. L. Bowers,
F. H. Cooper, and G. H. Sharp, members. Ladder No. 1, George Stevens,
clerk; Charles H. Merritt, D. C. Bickford, G. A. Baker, C. A. Crowell, and
W. N. Young, members. No. 2, B. H. Stinson, assistant ; George W. Crafts,
clerk; Austin Harding and A. S. Turner, members. No. 3, J. F. Marston,
captain ; L. M. Clifford, G. L. Cooper, G. F. Clark, L. B. Clifford, L. L.
Cooper, and L. Stackpole, members.
Three very large fires occurred during 1861, The first broke out at 5
A.M., on January 5, at 72 Long wharf, owned by the Long AYharf Corpora-
tion ; loss, $15,752; insurance, $11,200. On May 6, at a fire at 235 State
street, a quantity of gunpowder, kept contrary to law, was seized. The
careless use of fire-crackers in the premises of Mr. Francis Standish, 131
Albany street, at 1.18, on July 4, destroyed twenty buildings on Albany,
Hudson, and Curve streets. AVhile most of the department were fighting
this fire, another broke out at 2.17 P.M., at Nickerson's wharf, East Boston,
from the same cause. The building in which the latter originated contained a
large quantity of combustible material. When first discovered it was near
being extinguished with a bucket, but for the breaking of the line when
•drawing the water. On the alarm being given, only a small force of the
department could be spared for this emergency. Valuable assistance, how-
ever, was rendered by the departments of Chelsea, Roxbury, Cambridge,
Maiden, and Charlestown. The loss of property, when compared with the
large number of poor people who were turned from their homes and occupa-
tions, Avas an inconsiderable matter. It was impossible to obtain anything
like a correct return of the damage to propert}'^, but the number of people
burnt out was as follows : fifteen on Nickerson's wharf, twenty on New
street, twenty-one on Maverick street, two in the rear of Maverick street,
seven on the corner of Border and Maverick streets, nine on Border street,
fifteen on Cross street, nineteen on Liverpool street, seventeen in Erin
alley, the Suffolk Salt Works of Clark & Co., A. P. Clark, Aspinwall's
wharf, and ten vessels, steamboats, etc. Gove's block, corner of Green and
Pitts streets, was partly destroyed on August 3 ; loss, $43,758 ; insurance,
$34,758. Mr. and Mrs. Ezra Lincoln, Jr., of Commonwealth avenue, were
severely injured by a gas explosion on November 24. The total number
of alarms during the year were one hundred and ninety-two, during which
$506,075 worth of property was destroyed ; insurance, $498,963.
Engine Company No. 10 was organized during May, 1862, and located
in the house on River street previously occupied by Hose Company No. 1 ,
and one was placed in Purchase street to take the place of old " Lawrence "
No. 7, it being too heavy for regular service. This engine was thoroughly
repaired and placed in the old house formerly occupied by the " Miles Green-
wood." A new building was erected on Northampton street for the accom-
modation of Hose No. 4, which was considered the most convenient house in
the department. A new structure was also in process of building on Har-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 241
rison avenue, at the junction of Maiden and Wareham streets, for Ladder
Company No. 3, and for the storage of one spare engine, ladder carriage,
and other apparatus temporarily out of service. The old house at the
westerly end of " ScoUay's Building " was remodelled for the occupancy of
Engine No. 4, where it was removed from the basement of City Hall. Thirty-
one reservoirs — fourteen in South Boston, nine in East Boston, and the
balance in the city proper — were thoroughly cleaned and arranged so that
water could be supplied to them from the Cochituate water-pipes. One hose-
carriage with all its equipments was located in the rear of 78 Prince street, at
the distil-house of Felton & Cunningham.
The war with the South caused twenty-nine members of the department
duruig 1862 to enter the service of the United States, — a service scarcely
more dangerous than that which they left. Many of them rose to positions
of honor and trust, while some few offered up their lives on the altar of
devotion to their country. Mr. John W. Regan was appointed on the Board
of Engineers, vice Otis N. Marston.
The changes and promotions in the companies for the year were as
follows : —
Engine No. 1, Thomas C. Porter, hoseman. No. 3, F. M. Hines, cap-
tain ; W. N. Abbott, E. L. Barnes, J. H. Lefavor, and J. G. Pike, hosemen.
No. 4, J. H. Fynes, captain ; PI H. Bright and J. S. Goodell, hosemen. No.
5, R. W. Sturtevant, fireman ; George W. Brown, driver. No. 6, J. A. Bar-
ker, hoseman. No. 7, C. H. Adams, fireman; A. A. J. Bartlett, captain;
C. H. Hodgdon, D. T. Marden, and L. C. Smith, hosemen; on June 1, six
officers and members of this company were transferred to Engine No. 10.
No. 8, H. A. Chase, fireman; R. F. Parow, driver: H. G. Floyd, C. A.
Scott, and J. S. Young, hosemen. No. 9, Charles Hodges and I. H. Jones,
hosemen. No. 10, organized May, 1862 ; F. L. Grant, engineman ; Lewis
Briggs, fireman ; A. H. Towne, driver ; R. B. Farrar, captain ; W. H. Brad-
ford, F. W. Gough, C. N. Morse, James Porter, William Parker, James
Shannon, and G. Pv. Towne, hosemen ; weight of engine, including three
members, sixty-two hundred and fifty pounds.
Hose Company No. 1, W. H. Prescott, hoseman. No. 2, N. S. Brown,
Thomas Merritt, A. B. Smith, and W. W. Stevens, hosemen. No. 3, Horatio
Ely, driver, and George W. Clark, hoseman. No. 4, Robert Bruce, S. C.
Murray, M. C. Parcher, and J. H. Whittle, hosemen. No. 5, A. M. Hickey,
hoseman. No. 6, William Classen and John Fenno, hosemen. No. 8, A. G.
Shaw, hoseman. No. 9, T W. Gowan, driver, and William Moffit, hoseman.
Hand-hose No. 10, H. P. Abbott, L. F. Fluet, H. Gill, J. L. Hyde, and T.
A. Harmon, hosemen.
Ladder Company No. 1, E. B. Hines, assistant ; C. H. Merritt, clerk. No.
2, J. E. Thayer, driver and steward ; Warren Foster and A. P. Inman, mem-
bers. No. 3, John Deraerritt, S. K. Jaquith, S. Jaquith, W. M. Norris, and
N. P. Plummer, members.
242 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The pay-roll was equalized during the year, no distinction being made
between the city companies and those in East or South Boston. A new run-
ning-card was also made out by the engineers, on June 29, 1862. Four hun-
dred dollars was paid on March 11 to the widow of Reuben Hanaford, who
was killed at a fire on Commercial street, and on July 23, $600 were paid to
the widow of George Abercrombie, who was killed at a fire on Sudbury
street.
The year was very disastrous, both from the loss to property and the
number of deaths and accidents to the members of the department. The first
accident of the year occurred on January 3, when S. L. Gowell, of Ladder
No. 3, was run over by the truck, and received a compound fracture of the
leg. On the 14th, at 11.50 A.M., a heavy conflagration resulting from
the blowing off of the head of a copper still at the establishment of
Mr. J. W. Clifford, 57 Commercial street, burnt out twenty-three firms ;
damage unknown. Faneuil Hall market was discovered on fire at 5.16
A.M., January 28, and was almost entirely destroyed. Twenty-six occu-
pants and others suffered by this fire ; loss, $33,930 ; insurance, $26,325.
George C. Fernald of Hose No. 5 fell from a ladder at a fire on January 31,
at John H. Pray, Son, & Co.'s, 283 Washington street, and broke one leg
and wrist. But the most terrible conflagration that visited Boston since it be-
came a city occurred at 9.47 o'clock in the evening of February 24. The fire
originated from some unknown cause in the store of Mr. William Mathews,
on the corner of North and Commercial streets, occupied by Gove & Co., oil-
clothing manufacturers, and burned with fearful rapidity, until nothing re-
mained in the square bounded by North, Fleet, and Clark streets, to the
water, including in its course the wharf property. It was an exceedingly cold
night, and the wind from the westward blew with fearful violence. It is im-
possible to give the names or loss of many of the sufferers by tiiis fire. The
chief engineer's report gives the names of thirty-nine firms, and the loss,
$702,300; insurance, $490,900. Mr. Reuben Hanaford of Hose No. 5,
and some unknown person who assisted in putting out the fire in company
with Mr. Hanaford, lost their lives by suffocation. Mr. H. A. Green, of the
same company, was badly injured, and a young man, in endeavoring to save
some property in the dark, had his boat carried by the wind to Long Island,
where he was found with his feet and hands badly frozen.
At a fire in the juuli store of James Powers & Co., of 392 Federal
street, about sixty pounds of powder were taken from the burning building at
the risk of a great sacrifice of life by the hosemen of Engine No. 7 and Hose
No. 8. May 12, at 11.05 P.M., the building at 65 Broad street, occupied by
Messrs. D. Webster & Co., was destroyed, together with $130,000 worth of
property; insurance, $122,000. Another disastrous fire, resulting in the loss
of life, broke out at 8.41 P.M., July 11, at 61 and 63 Sudbury street, occu-
pied by Messrs. Sargent, Ham, & Co. The falling of the walls instantly
killed George N. Abercrombie of Engine No. 7, and seriously injured Henry
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 24S
B. Fowler and B. F. Lucas of Engine No. 1, A. Hutchinson, George Mitchell,
Robert Spear, L. M. Clifford, and B. B. Wright of Hose No. 3. The loss by
this fire was probably, in the aggregate, nearly $15,000, but divided among a
large number of mechanics, who were unable from the nature of their loss to
properly estimate the value. December 23, the Athenaeum block, at 85 to
91 Pearl street, was destroyed, the loss to the occupants, etc., amounting
to $65,000 ; fully insured.
Number of alarms from September 1, 1861, to August 31, 1862, one
hundred and seventy-two; from September 1 to December 31, 1862, thirty-
two; total loss, $1,242,998; insurance, $903,142.
244 HISTOET OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTER IX.
1863-1867.
DURING 1863, twenty-two reservoirs in the city proper and five in South
Boston were cleaned and arranged for the more advantageous use of
the department. In the report of Chief Bird for that year all the statutes and
ordinances that refer to this branch of the government are printed, to which
we refer for the statutes enacted during 1833 relating to gunpowder ; fire-arms,
bonfires, and brick-kilns, July 22, 1850 ; fireworks, April 14, 1853 ; and the
orders of the Board of Engineers regarding fireworks, April 29, 1853. We
also refer to the Act of 1829, Chapter 44, and 1838, Chapter 131, for the
incorporation of the Charitable Association of the Boston Fire Department.
The pay of the assistant engineers was increased to $350 per annum,
and that of the engiuemen, firemen, and drivers to $70, $60, and $55 per
month, respectively, while all the other members had an increase of $25 per
annum added to their salaries. Changes a-nd promotions during 1863 were
as follows: Engine No. 1, H. A. Chase, engineman ; T. E. Porter, fireman;
•R. F. Twiss and Benjamin Twiss, hosemen. No. 2, D. E. Gilman, fireman ;
T. N. Page, hoseman. No. 3, M. H. Ryder, fireman. No. 4, Scollay's build-
ing, Court street, Lewis Briggs, engineman, D. R. Deering, fireman ; Thomas
Merritt, hoseman. No. 5, Augustus Blood, hoseman. No. 6, Cyrus Bruce,
Henry Daniels, and J. W. C. Prescott, hosemen. No. 7, Charles Riley, fire-
man ; D. A. Carney, Daniel Carter, William T. Cheswell, George E. Houghton,
L. G. Howard, hoseman. The engine was built during 1862 by the Amoskeag
Manufacturing Company, and had a double cj'linder, also two double-acting
plunger pumps ; a tender to carry fuel and a water-tank for the supply of the
boiler were also new additions to this engine. No. 8, PI H. Leach and Charles
H. Marks, hosemen. This engine was given to Company No. 6, on June 15,
until they received their new one. No. 9, Joseph Grace, engineman; J. S.
Young, fireman; C. P. Wood, driver; J. D. Campbell and S. L. Fowle, hose-
men. Hose Company No. 1, David Kurrus, S. P. Pool, hosemen. No. 2, John
King, hoseman. No. 3, J. F. Bolton and R. Y. Young, hosemen. No. 4, R.
Bruce, captain ; C. F. Coburn, P. M. Marble, M. C. Parcher, hosemen. No. 8,
J. T. Prescott and H. F. Y'oung, hosemen. No. 10, J. L. Bowers, hoseman;
the stewardship on this company was discontinued. Ladder Company No. 1,
William Lewis, P. Collier, James Clark, Charles Kenney, Samuel Todd, and
W. N. Young, members. No. 2, George W. Crafts, assistant ; J. W. Seavey,
clerk ; B. H. Stinson, George Chilcott, Edwin Fiske, A. Lewis, L. P. Law-
rence, S. C. Stinson, and J. L. Tewksbur}', members. No. 3, M. H. Plum-
mer, B. B. Wright, George F. Clarke, Henry Durant, George O. Ladd, M.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 245
B. Rowe, C. A. Rowe, and R. E. Stannard, members. By joining the butts
and tips of the ladders carried by this truck the company were able to raise
them to sixty-five feet.
The Rand «& Avery fire occurred on February 21 of this year. It origi-
nated in the building at 1 to 19 A\^ashington street, occupied by F G. Tucker-
man, and extended to Cornhill and Brattle street ; loss, $36,137 ; insurance,
$22,921. Rand & Avery were the heaviest losers. The National Theatre,
the property of William Sohier, located on Portland street, was discovered on
fire at 1.52 A.M., March 24, and in a few hours the building, with all its
contents, including the actors' wardrobes, were entirely destroyed ; loss,
$53,468 ; insurance, $16,000. The first false alarm, given at 8.39 A.M., June
6, from Bowdoin square, for "an exhibition, was rung in by the city govern-
ment, to show the department to the city officials of Cincinnati. The Rox-
bury Lead Works, on Davis street, were destroyed August 20 ; loss, $40,000.
On the 31st, the Atlantic Iron AVorks, Sumner street, East Boston, were
burnt; five alarms were given for this fire; loss, $10,150; insurance, $4,000.
Twelve horses were burnt at the stables of William McMahen, 31 Paris
street. East Boston, on September 16 ; loss to property, $10,000 ; insurance,
$5,500. The Ba}' State RoUing-Mills, on Fu'st street. South Boston, were set
fire September 18; loss, $12,400; insurance, $10,000. A large number of
persons were thrown out of work. November 6, Messrs. Holmes & Joy's
factory at Charlestown, destroyed ; loss, $75,000. Engines from Boston
responded. Number of alarms from September 1, 1862, to August 31, 1863,
one hundred and forty-one; from September 1, 1863, to December 31, 1863,
fifty-six; total loss, $456,934; insurance, $180,477.
The most excitable time during the .year was the draft riot, on Cooper
street, at the North End. The city having failed to meet the requisition of
men by voluntary enlistment for the war between the North and South, Mayor
Lincoln found it necessary to resort to a draft. On the afternoon of July 14,
two assistant provost marshals were serving notices upon the men who had
been drafted for military service, and who lived in rather a disreputable
quarter of the North End of the city, when they were suddenly assaulted by a
woman whose husband had been numbered among the conscript. Her cries
acted as a signal, and in an instant the narrow streets in that section were
filled with a terrible mob, made so by the leadei'ship of women. The mar-
shals fled for their lives, and the local patrolmen coming to their rescue were
set upon and nearly beaten to death. One officer was crippled for life. In a
short time the whole North End was in a state of revolt, and an alarm was
rung in on the fire-alarm service at 12.27 A.M., July 15, from District 3, Box
3, which was given for police aid. It was followed thirteen minutes later
for a fire at the Cooper-street armor}'^, which was set by the mob, but
was extinguished with only $500 damage to the building. The Mayor
acted witli great promptness and resolution. He issued his precepts to the
independent company cadets (the prescribed body-guard of the Governor),
246 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
a battalion of cavalry, and a battery of light artillery, the only local
military organizations in the city at that time, directing them to report to him
armed and equipped for service. This force was strengthened by several
military organizations then in camp at Readville, and by detachments from
the heavy artillery and infantry companies on duty at tlie forts in the harbor.
The Cooper-street armory, occupied by a light battery, was situated in the very
midst of the riotous populace. It was here that the scene of bloodshed took
place. The first was a citizen standing at an open wmdow of the armory. He
was shot dead by a pistol-shot. ^ The mob took up pavmg-stones and bricks from
the sidewalks, and threw them against the building. They attempted to effect
an entrance through the doors which tliey liad partially battered down, when
a loaded cannon was fired from within. Its charge tore through the mass
and demolished a part of the opposite house front. The attack was again
renewed, but the firing of the infantry from the doors and windows dampened
the ardor of the assailants, and a diversion was presently created by the
proposition to sack Reed's gun store, in Dock square. In the mean time, the
other military organizations had been brought together, and were about to
march to Cooper-street armory, when word was brought Mayor Lincoln of their
intent. An advance guard of policemen met the mob, and held them in
check until the inilitary force came up and effectually dispersed them, Tlie
number of the rioters killed is unknown, as the dead were in most cases con-
veyed away in secret, and buried without official permit. Seven hundred
and thirteen men were drafted out of the twenty-sis thousand one hundred
and nineteen men furnished by Boston for the service.
Very few changes are reported during the year 1864. The only additional
equipments to the sex'vice were the, arranging of fifteen reservoirs in the city
proper, and placing iron covers on the curbs of Iwenty-three, thus obviating
the constant demands for renewals of wooden covers. Nineteen hydrants
were added to the city service, five at South Boston, and three at East Bos-
ton. A new engine was built for No. 6 by the Amoskeag Manufacturing
Company, December 19. All the stone floors in the engine-houses were
taken out, and wood substituted. The compensation was again increased
during the year. Assistant engineers received $400, while enginemen, fire-
men, and drivers got $80, $70, and $65 per month, respectively. The other
officers and members had $25 per annum additional.
Mr. Elijah B. Hine succeeded Assistant Engineer C. C. Henry. The other
• changes in the department were as follows: Engine Company No. 1, John
Ray, engiueman ; S. S. Gowen, George W. Gerrish, M. F. Holden, and F. S.
Wright, hosemen. No. 2, D. E. Gilman, engiueman ; George O. Twiss, fireman ;
B. F. Lucas, driver ; John Brown, captain ; Robert Donelly and Edward Lam-
phier, hosemen. No. 4, William T. Cheswell, driver ; Matthew Conley, hose-
man. No. 6, John Ash and G. B. Munroe, hosemen. No. 7, Charles Riley,
engineman ; B. S. Flanders, fireman ; George L. Imbert, captain ; R. E. Flan-
ders, J. A. Holland, and John Winniatt, hosemen. No. 8, Otis B. Hardy,
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 247
engiueman ; "Warren Webster, fireman ; J. F. Lewis, driver ; R. J. Fortune, G.
F, C. Hamilton, Erastus E. Jeffery, 'hosemen. No. 9. Simeon Webster,
captain. No. 10, Gilman Tyng, fireman; C. H. Kuhn and W. H. Scribner,
hosemen. Hose Company No. 1, George W. Stoddard, hoseman. No. 2,
Sylvester Stone, hoseman. No. 3, George W. Clark, captain ; James Mills
and Henry Tracy, hosemen. This company was disbanded on August 16 for
insubordination, and reorganized September 1. No. 4, J. H. Whittle, cap-
tain ; Henry Bruce, E. F. Barney, S. S. Hartshorn, Gottlieb Karcher, and
J. H. Skinner, hosemen. No. 5, George F. Clark, hoseman. No. 6, John
H. Weston, hoseman. No. 8, H. F. Newton, hoseman. No. 9, W. H. God-
frey, hoseman. Hand- hose Company No. 10 was not mentioned in report
for this year. Ladder Company No. 1 moved to Warren street ; P. Collier,
assistant; John Lyman, Asa Freeman, M. D. Gill, R. Garland, and H. A.
Ladd, members. This truck was also provided with butt ladders during the
year. No. 2, Edwin Fish, member. No. 3, George H. Alexander, Charles
H. Downes, L. W. Shaw, and A. C. Shaw, members.
Total number of alarms from September 1, 1863, to August 31, 1864,
one hundred and eighty-eight; from September 1, 1864, to December 31, 1864,
thirty-five; loss, $1,146,581; insurance, $620,669. On February 6, nine
horses were burnt to death at the stables of Moses French, Jr., 374 Broad
street. After the department left the building it burst out in flames the second
time. Chief Engineer Bird was seriously hurt by the falling of a ladder.
On the 19th, Mrs. Murphy, of No. 7 Oliver street, was burnt to death. By
the explosion of ether at the establishment of Messrs. Case & Getchel, 299 J
Washington street, on March 1, Mr. Eaton and Mr. Getchel were badl}'
burnt. A large fire broke out at 2.04 A.M., March 5, at 170 Washington
street, occupied by Messrs. Weeks & Potter ; loss, $189,629 ; insurance,
$112,104. But the largest conflagration of the year occurred at 12.10 A.M.,
April 6, at Masonic Hall, located on Tremont corner of Boylston street. A
large number of very valuable and almost priceless paintings were destroyed,
including original portraits of Washington, General Warren, Price, tlie first
Grand Master of the State, and also all of the Grand Masters of 1780 down
to the year of the fire. All the lodges lost heavily. The painting of Gen-
eral Warren, owned by the Massachusetts Lodge, was lost. The Grand
Lodge of this State lost a great number of original Masonic documents of the
previous century, and which to them were of great value. Among them
were charters and papers signed by Washington, Warren, Franklin, Paul
Revere, and others, which were destroyed ; total loss over $200,000 ; insurance,
$100,000. On April 15, the "Herald" office and other buildings were de-
stroyed ; loss, $17,100 ; insurance, $10,500. On April 28, the system of fire
alarms for twelve years in use was rearranged, and from that date the loca-
tion of the box from which the alarm was turned was designated by the
bells instead of the district.
Mary Slatterly was suffocated by fire at her house on Moon street, April
248 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
29. An alarm was pulled in by order of the Mayor, on June 8, at 6.40
P.M., for the purpose of exhibiting. the department to the Russian fleet ofl[i-
cers. On the 10th, at 1.06 A.M., a serious fire occurred on Rowe's wharf,
occupied by A. S- & W. G. Lewis, and others; loss, $157,000; insurance,
$77,000. July 5, the gram elevator of Stebbens & Anderson, on Eastern
avenue, was burnt; loss, $50,000; insured. Keating's saw mill on Cause-
way street, July 22 ; loss, $27,550. And on September 27, the piano
factory of Hallett & Davis, on Newton street, was destroyed; loss, $200,-
000 ; insurance, $63,000.
On Tuesday evening, October 25, the famous old Province House was
destroyed by fire. This building was erected during 1679, by Mr. Peter
Sargent, as a private residence. It was bought by the Government during
1716, and used as a Governor's house, when it was termed the Mansion
House. It had passed through the hands of several owners, and at the time
of its destruction was devoted to a place of amusement. The fire originated
in an upper story of the building, and was supposed to have been the work of
an incendiary.
During 1865, a new house was erected on Sumner street. East Boston,
for the accommodation of Ladder Company No. 2, and for a new engine,
No. 1 1 , built by the Amoskcag Manufacturing Company. A new building was
also in process of construction on River street, for Engine No. 10. Eighteen
more iron covers were placed over the curbs of the reservoir, in the place of
those removed. One hundred and six fire-alarm boxes were in use during the
year, distributed as follows : eighty-three in the city, fifteen at South Boston,
and eight at East Boston, while six more hydrants were constructed in the
city, and five at South Boston.
Promotions and new members in the department for 1864 : Engine Co.
No. 1, Templeton C. Twiss, driver; T. S. Wright, captain. No. 2, M. A.
Jones, driver ; J. B. Elmerson, hoseman. No. 3, H. M. Hawkins, fireman ;
H. J. Lefavor, hoseman. No. 6, W. W. Kent, hoseman. No. 7, Thomas
Nannery, fireman ; H. T. Barnes and P. J. Mayer, hosemen. No. 8, B. S.
Flanders, engineman ; E. E. Jeffrey, fireman ; H. Allen, driver ; Eben Shap-
leigh and Albert Vilno, hosemen. No. 9, William Pray, hoseman. No. 10,
James Porter, hoseman. No. 11, Sumner street, East Boston, organized
December 25. The engine was not ready for this company until January 1,
1866 ; in the mean time they had charge of relief engine. Ladder Company
No. 1, I. N. Hodett, and Charles Sawyer, members. No. 2, W. F. Hayes,
member. No. 3, G. P. Milliken, G. L. Cooper, H. J. Manning, James O.
Stone, and G. B. Stevens, members. Hose Company No. 1, F. B. Leach.
No. 2, Thomas Merritt, captain ; F. B. Brown and B. P. Stowell, hosemen.
No. 4, H. V. Haywood, captain ; D. S. Knight, G. W. Lowell, and George
L. Pike. No. 5, W. A. Gaylord, hoseman. No. 8, W. H. Munroe and
W. E. Richardson, hosemen. No. 9, Charles Allen, hoseman. No. 10,
H. E. Bradley, M. Goodale, R. Phillip, and C. E. Spiller. Land was pur-
TIISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 249
chased and a suitable house erected on Dorchester street, South Boston, for
this company.
The first conflagration for the year 1865 was in the office of the " Daily
Evening Traveller," corner of State and Congress streets. This fire was set
in several places by incendiaries and a number of offices were burnt out ;
loss, $20,698; insurance, $16,971. A son of Mr. Gilmore, on Highland
street, was burnt to death March 18th. At 11.50 A.M., April 10, an alarm
was sounded on Box 43 in the city proper and South Boston, and Box 162,
East Boston, for- bringing out the department on reception of the news of
the fall of Richmond, Va.
April 31, at 3.17 A.M., fire was discovered on the premises of Mr.
Charles Minot, corner of Sudbury and Court streets, and destroyed a large
amount of property; loss, $119,700; insurance, $66,500. July 31, tlie
premises of Mr. Silas Pierce, of 126 to 132 Commercial street, were totally
destroyed; loss, $26,400; insurance, $25,300. J. A. Holland, hoseman on
Engine No. 7, and R. W. Hitchcock, a substitute, were dangerously burned
by an explosion. An infant of Mr. Patriclc Connor, 54 Billerica street, was
burned to deatli on August 16. Department called out by the Mayor on Sep-
tember 29 to exhibit the force to the commission from St. Louis, The loco-
motive woi'lvsof Hinckley & Williams, at 418 Harrison avenue, were destroyed
December 2, tlie fire originating in the foundry; loss, $23,290; insurance,
$4,290.
Number of alarms from September 1, 1864, to December 31, 1865, one
hundred and ninety-one; total loss, $625,891; insurance, $354,550. A
public notice was issued givmg warning to the citizens to use every care in
the prevention of fire, "■ for should a conflagration of any magnitude break
out, it might assume terrible proportion, as there were so few men in the city
able to subdue it, tbey being engaged in the war." A series of rules were
given with the order.
Assistant Engineer John S. Damrell succeeded Chief Engineer Bird,
March 19, 1866. On assuming command this gentleman made several changes
in the department, and recommended to the city government the purchase of
two new second-size engines to take the place of those in charge of Com-
panies Nos. 3 and 4, and that the old engines be placed, one at South Boston
and the other at the south part of the city, in charge of companies then exist-
ing, and used as a reserve force. Two new horse hose-carriages and one lad-
der truck were also asked for, besides new houses for Engines Nos. 1 and 4 and
Hose Nos. 1 and 8. He adopted a system for exercising the horses belong-
ing to the department, which proved highly advantageous, as the animals were
fast growing lame and tender from confinement and sudden exertion. Ten
thousand feet of new hose were added of the following standard : pure oak,
city tanned, Baltimore or Philadelphia leather, known as " over weight," the
average weight not less than twenty-two pounds to the side, none less than
twenty pounds, double riveted with copper wire, size known as No. 8,
250 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
twenty-two rivets to the running foot ; splices made with thirteen rivets of
size known as No. 7 wire ; finished with three loops and rings and weight not
less than sixty-four pounds to each fifty feet, exclusive of the couplings, and
warranted to stand a pressure of not less than two hundred pounds to the square
inch. Tail-bands and tail-pieces two inches in width and length, and to be
secured by three rivets. Two new small hose and one hand -hose carriage, also
one with a capacity of one thousand feet of hose, were furnished the depart-
ment. A steam police boat, furnished with two powerful force-pumps, was
built for the protection of wharf property.
The supervision of the repairs of buildings occupied by the department,
which for many 3'ears had been under the care of the chief engineer and com-
mittee on fire department, was transferred during the year to the committee
on public buildings and the superintendent of that department. Twenty-
seven new hydrants were constructed, — nineteen in the city, three at South
Boston, and five at East Boston.
The pay-roll was also revised during 1866-67, as follows : chief engi-
neer, $2,000-, secretary, $1,000; eight assistant engineers, $450; one assist-
ant engineer, $250 per year ; enginemen, $3 per day ; firemen, $80 per mouth ;
drivers, $75 per mouth; twenty foremen, $225, and one, $50, per year ; other
officers and members, $200; one stewai'd and six hosemen, $30 per annum.
The chief was also allowed a horse and wagon for his especial use.
Capt. John Stover Jacobs was appointed on the Board of Engineers, vice
Damrell's promotion. Capt. Nathaniel W. Pratt died July 3, which left a
vacancy in the board. New members and changes in the service were as
follows : —
Engine Company No. 2, house between I and K streets, A. Pratt and D.
II. Twiss, hosemen. No. 3, J. F. Button, hoseman. No. 4, Christopher
Tracy, captain ; M. C. Sullivan, hoseman. No. 5, George H. Morrison, fire-
man ; Daniel Carter, driver. No. 6, Charles Harlow and E. Parker, Jr., hose-
men. No. 7, J. H. Adams, fireman ; D. T. Marden, captain ; Frank Walker
and G. F. Marden, hosemen. No. 8, C. H. Blake, captain; William Childs
and Charles Dunton, hosemen. No. 9, Albert Bailey, driver ; James McKown,
hoseman. No. 10, Gilman Tyng, engineer ; Thomas Nannery, fireman ; and
H. P. Hawkins, hoseman. No. 11, G. W. Brown, fireman; Andrew Lewis,
captain; and C. C. Cooper, hoseman. Ladder Company No. 1, John S.
Stevens, captain ; W. H. Brown, steward ; William Lewis, member. No. 2,
John Fenno, member. No. 3, L. M. Clifford, captain ; I. K. Jennings, assist-
ant ; W. H. Burrill, William H. Burling, J. F. Marston, John A. Ladd, J. W.
Morrison, J. W. Randall, and N, B. Whitman, members. Hose Company
No. 2, D. A. Ranking, hoseman. No. 3, R. M. Young, hoseman. No. 5,
Joseph Halstick, Jr., hoseman. No. 8, Daniel Harold, hoseman. One hose-
carriage, with appliances, was placed at the City Hospital, under the charge
of the driver of Hose No. 4.
Total number of alarms, September 1, 1865, to Becember 31, 1866, two
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 251
hundred and eighty-five; loss, $1,089,114; insurance, $856,871. The first
large fire during this time broke out at 2.15 on the morning of February 16,
in a tenement house on First and Second streets. South Boston. It was a very
cold night, and before the fire was controlled forty-two families were burnt
out. Bridget Downes, a widow, perished in the flames ; she escaped once, but
returned again for money left in her room ; loss, $3,000 ; no insurance. March
7, Frederick Spear, of Charlestown, a lad sixteen years of age, was suffocated
in the building at 126 and 128 Milk street, occupied by Means, Palmer, & Co.
On May 1, at 1.15 P.M., the United States Bonded Warehouse on Boston
wharf and other property were destroj^ed ; loss, $112,150 ; insurance, $58,000.
May 11, Snow's wharf, occupied by F. Snow & Co., burnt; loss, $43,500;
insured, $39,100. The building at 407 Washington street, occupied by
Messrs. Haley, Morse, & Boyden, was destroyed June 14; loss, $120,000;
insured. July 1, H. S. Litchfield's Brass Foundry and other buildings on
Lewis street consumed ; loss, $100,000 ; insurance, $50,000. Philbrick &
Parsons' kerosene-oil works, Chelsea street, East Boston, burnt August 7 ;
loss, $20,000. The United States Arsenal, at Watertown, was destroyed
September 2 ; the Boston department rendered assistance. Robert M. Young,
hoseman of Hose Company 3, was seriously injured by falling from a ladder
October 7, at the fire at a building corner of Milk and India streets, occupied
by E. & F. King & Co. The day following, Charles E. Munroe, hoseman, of
Engine Company 6, was seriously hurt by falling through an open hoistway
at building No. '75 Union street, occupied by A. G. Foss ; loss to property,
$11,300; insurance, $9,200. On November 3, at 10.30 P.M., a serious fire
broke out at 41 Franklin street, occupied by Messrs. Allen, Lane, & Co. and
others; loss, $208,750; fully insured.
Tlie committee on the fire department chose a committee during 1867,
consisting of Alderman Hawes and Chief Engineer Damrell, to examine the
various makes of steam-engines, in order to secure the best apparatus manu-
factured ; the result being that contracts were awarded the Amoskeag Manu-
facturing Company for new engines for Companies Nos. 3,4, and 5 ; also one
new hose-carriage, of a capacity of one thousand feet of hose, to take the place
of the one drawn by hand by Hose Company No 10. The following houses,
under the control of this department, were repaired, etc. : Engine No. 3 was
raised three feet, a new hose-tower erected sixty feet high, the house reno-
vated, and fitted up with bathing fixtures at a cost of $4,500. Engine No. 5
was enlarged, a new hose-tower built, and the house fitted up with bathing tubs,
at an expense of $5,000. A small house for the storage of coal-wagons and
spare ladders was erected in the yard, in connection with Ladder-house No. 2 ;
cost, $800. A new hose-tower was also put in the house of Hose No. 4, at a
cost of $900. Bathing fixtures were put in the house of Hose No. 5, at an
expenditure of $700. Hose No. 6 quarters were thoroughly remodelled and
fitted for a tenement at a cost of $3,500, the city receiving an annual rental
of $156 from the driver. Hose 10 remodelled and fitted for a horse hose-
252 HISTORY OF boston fire department.
can-iage ; expense, $5,000. Ladder No. 3 remodelled and fitted with extra
stalls for horses and a tenement for the driver, who payed $180 per year
rental; expenses of repairs, $1,700.
A self-propelling engine was built during the year by the Amoskeag
Manufacturing Company, which was rated as second class, and weighed about
seven thousand pounds. This engine, at the solicitation of the committee on fire
department, was forwarded to Boston about the 1st of October, and placed in
the house of Engine 5, at East Boston, in the place of that engine, which was
at the time unfit for service. At a trial on October 11 before the Board of Fire
Commissioners of NewYork City, the self-propeller gave the utmost satisfaction.
It was run from Charles street toward the toll-gate on the Mill-dam at a very
fast speed. It was also run up and down Beacon and Mt. Vernon streets, stop-
ping and starting apparently with the greatest of ease. By three or four other
trips made to the Mill-dam, and through other streets, it was, found capable of
going at a speed of a mile in three or four minutes over the pavements with per-
fect safety. The propelling machinery of this apparatus consisted of a stout
chain worked in slotted grooves, to which the links were fitted upon the main
shaft and the hub of one of the hind wheels, smaller chains being attached
to the brake and connected with the forward axle. For some reason never
clearly stated, this style of engine was dispensed with until 1872, when one
wPjS placed under the charge of Engine Company No. 21, where it remained in
service a number of years, when this style of apparatus was considered im-
practical, and the Engine formerly used by this company was taken in charge.
Liquid fuel, or what was known as hydrocarbon for steam-engines, the
invention of Col. H. R. Foot, was also given a trial during the year. After
an investigation of its merits by the committee, they gave Colonel Foot per-
mission to temporarily apply his invention to Engine 3, by which he could put
it to a practical test. To light the fire, a few shavings were placed under the
retort, and when that was hot, the oil, which was carried in copper tanks
placed over either spring at the rear of the engine, was let on, which imme-
diately vaporizing issued from the burners; when it was lighted, the pump
added the air, and the normal condition of the fire was attained. The oil
was conducted from the tank to the place at the grate, or to the retort, by a
common gas-pipe tube, and regulated by a stopcock, enabling the eugineman to
gauge the intensity of the fire at his pleasure. The result attained at the
exhibition, also at the fire on Federal street, at which the engine worked six
hours, gave general satisfaction. The appliance was then transferred to old
Engine No. 3. The following year a committee was chosen, consisting of the
enginemen of the department, to investigate the merits of the invention, also
Colonel Foot's claims to propel the apparatus to a fire without noise or smoke.
After a trial. May 27, 1868, the propelling attachment was found very unsat-
isfactory and was removed, but the appliance for firing the fuel was retained
for further experiment. The engine was put in the service of the department
and placed in charge of Engine Company No. 8, Mr. B. S. Flanders,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 253
enginemaa, who reported after working the engine at five fires, that, " in using
the oil for fuel the heat was not confined to the fire-box, but to the flues and
top of the arch, leaving the legs of boiler entirely bare, and heating the top
of the smoke arch to a red heat, thereby making the boiler dangerous when
firing with oil, with the same amount of steam as with coal." On receipt of
this report, Chief Damrell requested, on November 7, 1868, the several engine-
men of the department to thoroughly inspect and test the matter at Engine-
house No. 8. The report of these gentlemen only substantiated Mr. Flanders'
statement, and recommended that coal instead of oil be used in the department
for fuel for steam fire-engines, which report was accepted.
On the subject of water-supply. Chief Damrell says in his report for
1867: —
During the past tliree years, at large fires, much difficulty has been experienced for
the want of an adequate supply of water for our steam fire-engines. The immediate cause
of this failure is this, namely, that the hydrants, in every instance, are placed upon branch
pipes, the diameter of which varies from three to four inches, while the mains themselves,
in almost every instance, are but four inches in diameter, that supply them. In case of
fire, the hydrant upon these branch pipes Avill afford a supply to onl}^ one steamer; all
others on the line are useless. The steamer being at woi'k makes a vacuum in the pipe
by drawing the water to the hydrant first tapped. The result of this difficulty is, that much
time is consumed in shifting the apparatus to lines of pipes in other streets ; by reason -of
wliich, long, continuous lines of hose have to be used to convey the water to the scene of
the conflagration ; and, by this operation, the amount of friction to overcome is very great,
requiring oftentimes a water-pressure of from one hundred and eighty to two hundred
pounds to the square inch, to be effectual in our high buildings.
He then goes on to recommend that the hydrants be connected with the
main pipes of a size not less than eight inches in diameter, with a proper
outlet.
Twenty-eight hydrants were established during the year, — five in South
Boston, and the remainder in the city proper. The foreman of Hose Company
No. — had his salary increased by the City Council to #100 per year, the steward
to $80, and the members to $60, and a thorough new running-card was estab-
lished by the engineers. Rules and regulations in relation to petroleum and
its products were prepared on May 24, 1866, by the committee on licenses.
(See Engineers' Report for 1867 to 1870.)
Rules and regulations regarding badges were also adopted by the Board
of Engineers on December 4 the ensuing j^ear, whereby it was made compul-
sory for every member and substitute, not exceeding two for each engine and
hose companj^ and four for each ladder company, to wear the corporation
badge while on duty in a conspicuous manner on his coat or vest ; otherwise
they should not be allowed inside the line. They were not to lend the badge
on any pretext on penalty of dismissal, and if lost, they were charged $5.
Each badge was numbered, which number should be given to any one asking
it for the purpose of making a complaint for disorderly conduct. Any
254 IIISTOKY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
person other than a member appearing at a fire Avith a badge was punished
for misdemeanor. Every substitute was to be approved by the chief or the
engineer in the district, upon the recommendation of the foreman of the re-
spective companies.
No change occurred in the Board of Engineers, with the exception of tlie
appointment of Mr. Henry W. Longley as secretary. Monday, January 21,
ex-Chief Engineer William Barnicoat died at his residence on Tremont street',
aged seventy-eight years, one month, and nineteen days.
Promotions, new members, etc., in the department during 1867 were as fol-
lows : Engine Company No. 1 , Eugene C. Phillips, hoseman. No. 3, new engine
built by Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, and put in service November 7.
No. 4, Joseph Pierce, hoseman. No. 6, Charles O. Davis, F. A. Bean, C. E.
Wilson, F. L. Coats, L. G. Newman, and James A. Tuttle, hosemen. No. 7,
T. P. Lally, Russell White, Thomas White, and P. J. Maj^er, hosemen.
No. 8, E. T. Smith, hoseman. No. 10, J. C. Singleton, hoseman. Hose
Company No. 1, S. F. Ridler, R. E. Flanders, and Francis Reed, hosemen.
No. 4, John Le Cain, William E. Barney, and T. S. Hartshorn, hosemen.
No. 5, Joseph Halstick, Jr., hoseman. No. 6, C. E. Pearson and Calvin
Lewis, hosemen ; William H. Ryraille, deceased. No. 8, H. T. Barnes, Sin-
clair McDonald, and H. F. Newton, hosemen ; Daniel Harold, deceased.
No. 7, William Norris, G. S. Cole, and B. B. Brown, Jr., hosemen. Ladder
Company No. 1, V. C. Hansen, G. H. GoUief, and Richard Palmer, members.
No. 2, George A. Brown, member. No. 3, H. D. Smith, H. A. York, and
J. L. Starrett, members ; R. E. Staunard, deceased. There were also in the
department Relief Engines Nos. 3, 4, 5, and 6.
Total number of alarms from January 1, 1867, to December 31, 1867,
two hundred and eighty-four; loss, $402,115; insurance, $340,765. The
first fire of the year of any note occurred on February 20, in the old Broadway
Horse Railroad Company's stables. South Boston, and destroyed, besides the
building, several horses ; amount of loss not stated. March 6, at 6.40 P.M.,
Grace Church, on Temple street, was damaged to the extent of $16,540 ;
insured. Frank Walker, a member of Engine Company 7, fell from a ladder a
distance of thirty-five feet, and received a broken leg and other injuries, while
at a fire at Patrick Donahoe's book bindery on Franklin street, April 15 ;
loss to building, etc., $4,000 ; insured. July 4, Joseph Halstrick, Jr., of Hose
Company 5, was badly burned by an explosion of hot air at a fire at O. AV".
Esselborn & Co.'s, 33 Boylston street ; loss, $7,200 ; insured. The same
day liglitning struck the stable of Joseph Hale, on Hawkins street. Sixtj'^
horses were in the building, but all were saved except seven ; loss, $32,000 ;
insurance, $15,000. September 20, three members of Engine Company 7 were
thrown from a ladder and injui'ed at a fire at Hon. Samuel Cooper's, Canal
street; loss, $10,300; insurance, $5,100. The Bay State Sugar Refinery
was burned October 1 ; no return of loss. And on the 5th, a large fire
occurred at 383 Federal street, building occupied by Jonas Fitch and others ;
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 255
no loss given. On the 17th a can of benzine exploded in the building owned
by William Munroe, 106 Boylston street, and killed Mrs. Ware and Miss
Waltz. December 15th, the store of Messrs. Barnes, Merriam, & Co., 77
Franklin street, was burned ; loss, $107,000 ; insured.
256 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTER X.
1868-1870.
BY the annexation of Roxbury to the city of Boston, on January 6, 1868,
the department was increased b}^ the addition of three steam-engines,
one hose and one ladder carriage, whicli were under tlie command of James
Munroe, chief engineer. In the act of annexation no provision was made for
the continuing in service of the members of tlie Roxbnry department. Mayor
Shurtleff, on the recommendation of the Board of Engineers, presented the
names of seventy-four men to talve charge of the apparatus, and they were
confirmed by tlie Board of Aldermen. By a vote of that body, the apparatus
were numbered Engines. 12, 13, and 14, Hose 7, and Ladder 4.
A new house was erected for Engine No. 1 at the corner of Fourth and
Dorchester streets. South Boston, and the station of Engine No. 12 was
tlioroughly repaired. The house of No. 14 possessed a fine exterior, but no
accommodations for an engine company ; a school-house was in the rear,
which Chief Damrell desired should be converted into a stable for the engine-
house. Engine No. 8 and Hose No. 1 were located together in a new house
on Salem street. Ladder 4's house had no convenience for horses, which,
therefore, had to be hired from a livery stable when wanted. Coal-houses, to
supply engmes with fuel, were located, No. 1 on Salem street, No. 2 on
Orleans street. East Boston, and No. 3 on East street. Three new hose-
carriages for Hose Companies Nos. 3,4, and 7 were purchased during the year,
at a cost of $600 each, — two from the Amoskeag Manufacturing Compau}^
and one from Messrs. Huuuemau & Co. After an examination of Engine
No. 8, it was found unworthy of any expensive repairs. Messrs. Junckett &
Freeman, of this city, made a contract with the city to build a new engine for
the sum of $3,750 and the old engine.
The chief, in his first report, had recommended to the City Council the
inspection of unsafe buildings ; but it was not until the ensuing year that the
committee on the fire department investigated the matter, during which
the following ordinance was passed : " The chief engineer of the fire department
be authorized to employ some competent person, subject to the approval of
the committee on that department, to inspect buildings in process of erection
in this city which are, in materials or location, peculiarly liable to conflagra-
tion ; and to examine and to advise respecting the construction and location
of steam boilers in this city, whenever application is made therefor, the
expenses to be charged to the appropriation for the fire department." This
order was passed and approved March 24, 1868, and Chief Damrell recom-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 257
mended for the position ex-Cliief Engineer George W. Bird, who was unani-
mously confirmed by the committee, and hs at once entered upon his duties.
There was no statute law or ordinance of this city that recognized this office,
he only accomplishing his woi-k by appealing to the good judgment of those
of whom the complaint was made.
Another improvement made in the same year, was the reorganization of
the insurance protective department of the Board of Underwriters, by Engi-
neer Green. A company was formed, who received their appointment from the
chief engineer, being subject to the rules and ordinance of the city governing
the fire department. At fires the company was placed under the direction of
the Board of Engineers ; but Engineer Green made this his special duty. The
whole expense of this service was paid by the Board of Underwriters.
One hundred and twenty-two hydrants were established during the year,
— eleven in the city proper, seven in South Boston, ten in East Boston, and
one hundred and two m Roxbury. Previous to this there were twenty
hydrants and forty-three reservoirs in the latter district, the " Lowry hydrant "
being adopted, which patterns were recommended by the chief to be used
when additional hydrants were built in the city proper. Twenty-five signal
boxes were also added to the list in the fire-alarm service by the annexation.
Four additions were made to the Board of Engineers during 1868 by the
appointment of Messrs. Phineas D. Allen, Rufus B. Farrar, James Munroe,
and John Colligan, engineers of the Roxbury department. All the companies
throughout the service received names in addition to their numbers. The
new members, promotion, etc., occurred in them during the year as follows:
Mazeppa, No. 1, no change. S. R. Spinney, No. 2, no change. Eagle, No. 3,
no change. Barnicoat, No. 4, Charles E. Wadleigh, hoseman. Elisha Smith,
No. 5, Andrew P. Fisher, hoseman. Melville, No. 6, no change. Thomas C.
Amory, No. 7, Benjamin Brown, James S. King, George R. Williams, and
James H. Rankin, hosemeu. Northern Liberty, No. 8, Theo. J. Munroe, hose-
man. Maverick, No. 9, no change. Cataract, No. 10, George Demary, hose-
man. No. 11, no name, Henry R. Demary and Thomas Barnes, hosemen.
Warren, No. 12, house corner of Warren and Dudley streets, Roxbury district ;
engine built by L. Button, Waterford, N.Y., and put in service September 9,
1864 : James T. Cole, engineman ; Thomas W. Bradlee, fireman ; J. M.
Huggins, driver of engine ; 0. J. Booker, driver of hose ; M. N. Hubbard,
captain ; B. F. Applebee, J. H. Baxter, L. L. Cheswell, A. F. Choate, G. W.
Downes, William H. Jones, Chai'les E. Jones, M. H. Jones, and Thomas C.
Soesman, hosemen. Tremont, No. 13, house on Cabot street, Roxbury dis-
trict ; engine built by Messrs. Campbell, Whittier, & Co., of Roxbury, and
put in service April 6, 1865 ; Richard Eaton, Jr., engineman; Francis Swift,
fireman ; Charles E. Clark, driver of engine ; W. F. Booker, driver of hose ;
G. F. Decatur, captain ; Anthony Atwood, Bartlet Burgess, H. B. Day, J.
W. Hall, J. C. Hewes, C. H. Lincoln, George E. Orrok, F. C. Pratt, and C.
L. Rosemen, hosemen. Dearborn, No. 14, house on Centre street, Roxbury;
258 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
engine built by J. M. Stone, of Mancliester, N.H., and put in service Decem-
ber 17, 1860; George F. Worcester, engineman ; C. M. Raymond, fireman ;
William B. Richards, driver of engine ; C. W. Bates, driver of hose ; Calvin
A. Vose, captain; J. H. Barutio, F. K. Houseman, G. D. Kemp, J. G.
Smith, A. A. Snow, Jefferson Stimpson, Lewis P. Webber, Jabez Watkins,
and John R. Yendley, hosemen. Washington Hose Company, No. 1, no change.
Union, No. 2, no change. Franklin, No. 3, no change. Chester, No. 4,
Benjamin F. Norris, hoseraan. Suffolk, No. 5, D. A. Noble and R. J. Ryder,
hosemen. William Woolley, No. 6, no change. Elliott. No. 7, house on
Cabot street, Roxbury ; carriage built by the Araoskeag Manufacturing
Company, and put in service July 4, 1868 ; Walter S. Orrok, driver ; Thomas
A. Scott, captam ; T. H. Bill, James Boss, C. G. Green, H. S. Kendall, C.
E. Morrill, A. H. Perry, J. W. Sweat, J. A. Stockman, G. M. Schell, and
G. W. Stimpson, hosemen. Tremout, No. 8, Charles R. Classen, hoseman.
No. 9, no name ; no change. Bradlee, No. 10, B. F. Donnell, driver ; G. H.
Putnam, hoseman. Warren Ladder Company, No. 1, William J. Hicks, James
Edwards, and G. F. Griffin, membei's. Washington, No. 2, Samuel F. Ellis,
member. Franklin, No. 3, George P. Millilieu, D. W. Sampson, George E.
Thomas, and John Darling, members. No. 4, no name, house on Eustis
street, Roxbury; truck built by Messrs. Hunneman & Co., Roxbury, and
put in service May 1, 1845; number of ladders, sixteen; four fire-hooks,
four crotch-poles, three rakes, six forks, eight baskets, four axes, five lanterns,
eight ladder-dogs, two hammers, and four shovels ; William Farray, captain ;
Daniel Crockett, assistant ; I. H. Randall, clerk ; Thomas Jennings, steward ;
Frank Hutchins, B. L. Randall, Edward Whiting, Frank Upton, Lawrence
Rees, Richard Hincldy ; John Trull, Edward Bartlett, H. L. Bartlett, Charles
Fales, Daniel Cochran, Daniel Nicholas, Jacob Schmidters, J. H. Kelly,
George S. Fogg, and Gilbert S. May, members.
One fuel-wagon was kept at the old engine-house on East street, one at
the old house on Salem street, one at Engine No. 1 1 house, one at Ladder
No. 3 house, one at Engine No. 14 house, and one at Engine No. 13
house, all of which were capable of conveying about two tons of coal each.
The pay-roll of the department was again revised during the year, as
follows: chief, $2,500; secretary, $1,300; assistant engineers, $500; fore-
men, $300; assistant foremen and others, $275 per year; enginemen, $3.50;
firemen, $3.25; and drivers, $3 per day. An ordinance in relation to the
fire department was passed February 26 and September 10, 1869, also one on
September 17, referring to the manufacture, storage, and sale of petroleum
and its products.
The year wo.s quite noticeable for the number of serious accidents to the
members of the department. The first fire of note occurred on February 7
in a block of wooden buildings at the corner of Glover and Woodward
streets, Washington Village, South Boston. Twenty-one families occupied
the premises, most of whom lost all their furniture and household effects.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEF DEPARTMENT. 259-
while many had a narrow escape by being cut off by the flames and smoke ;
loss not stated. On the 23d, the Suffolk Planing Mills of Munson & Pater-
son, corner of Liverpool and Decatur streets, East Boston, were destroyed ;
loss not stated. The Methodist church on Warren street and four dwelling-
houses were partly destroyed on March 29 ; loss on church, $12,000 ; insur-
ance, $6,900. William Farry, foreman of Ladder No. 4, while at this fire
was severely injured by being struck with the iron points of a ladder. On the
day following, the steamboat " Island City," lying at T wharf, caught fire
from a slight explosion of a small quantity of petroleum ; loss to the steamer
slight. E. E. Jeffries, fireman of Engine No. 8, was run over by Hose-car-
riage No. I and severely injured in his back and hips. Charles Hubbard, engi-
neer of the wool-drying establishment of J. F. Paul, on Wareham street, was badly
burned in putting out a fire on those premises. May 5th. On the 11th, Mr.
George H. Golliff, a member of Ladder No. 1, while going to a fire at the corner
of Cork place and Commercial place, was run over by the truck and instantly
killed. " Old Charley," a valuable horse attached to Engine No. 8, had one
of his hoofs torn off while going to a fire on Dover place on July 28, and had
to be killed. On November 14, at 12.25 P.M., at a fire in the establishment
of McNeil Bros., on Albion street, Capt. William Lovell, George C. Fernald,
W. A. Gaylord, William H. Gardner, and Levi Gaylord, members of Hose
No. 5, were seriously injured by the falling of a portion of a building. At
2.14 on the afternoon of the same day, fire broke out in a block of wooden
buildings on Bennett avenue and Prince street, containing a number of poor
families. Mr. McCormick, an occupant of a room la the upper part of the
building, was burnt to death. On the 21st, at the burning of the kerosene-
oil works at South Boston, a young man named Hyde w.as seriousl}'^ injured.
December 8, a three-story block containing nine houses on Sweet street, Rox-
bury, was destroyed, together with most of the furniture of the sixty families
wdio occupied the same. At 2 o'clock in the afternoon, the varnish factory
of W. C, Hunneman, on the same street, caught fire and was entirely con-
sumed. Mr. E. F. Barney, of Hose No. 4, was Injured by the falling of the
walls. On the 9th, the premises of A. B. Wilbur, corner of Bulfinch and
Court streets, were destroyed. The upper part of the building was occupied as
offices and sleeping apartments ; several of the occupants had barely time to
escape, leaving everything, which was destroyed. A large conflagration
occurred in Lynn, Mass., on the 26th. Assistance was asked of this depart-
ment, and Engines Nos. 10 and 4, and Hose No. 1, were despatched to the
scene. Total number of alarms from January 1, 1868, to December 31,
1868, two hundred and ninety-three ; loss, $401,106 ; insurance, $314,706.
By order of the Board of Aldermen, March 16, 1868, districts were
assigned to the engineers as follows: District 1, East Boston; first alarm,
Chiefs Dunbar, Green, and Jacobs ; on the second alarm, Captain Hlne was
called. District 2, north section of the city, line from Leverett, Green,
Court, and State streets to the end of Long wharf ; first alarm, Chiefs
260 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Green, Hine, Regan, Jacobs, and Farrar ; on the second, Chamberlin and
Dunbar responded. District 3, line south of Leverett, Green, Court, and
State streets, North End, west of Boylston and Beach streets ; first alarm,
Chiefs Regan, Hine, Chamberlin, Green, and Farrar ; second, Jacobs and
Brown attended. District 4, line south of Boylston and Beach streets,
and north of Dover and Berkeley to Boylston streets ; first alarm. Chiefs
Chamberlin, Regan, Farrar, Smith, and Green; second. Brown and Hine.
District 5, line south of Dover and Berkeley to Boylston streets, and north of
Northampton to Sweet street ; first. Chiefs Smith, Munroe, Green, Cham-
berlin, and Colligan ; second. Brown and Allen. District 6, line all south of
Northampton street ; first, Chiefs Munroe, Allen, and Colligan ; second,
Mr. Smith responded. District 7, South Boston ; first. Chiefs Brown, Cham-
berlin, Green, Smith, and Regan ; second, Chamberlin and Regan were on
duty. • .
Daring 1869, there were erected the following new houses : Engine No.
7, on East street, at a cost of $24,000 ; Hose No. 3, on North Grove street,
at an expense of $13,556.51 ; Hose Nc. 8, on Church street, at an outlay of
$21,786.08; and one for Ladder No. 5, on Fourth street, near Dorchester
street. South Boston, at a cost of $15,530.25. The houses occupied by
Engmes Nos. 9 and 13 and Ladders Nos. 1 and 4 were thoroughly remodelled,
and adapted to the wants of the several companies occupying them, at an
expense of $26,908.28.
A new ladder-truck was built by Messrs. Hunneman & Co. for No. 1 ,
for the sum of $1,300 ; a hose-carriage for No. 1, by the same firm, May 1,
and a new engine for a new company, to be organized January 1, 1870, was
built by Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, for $4,250. There were also
purchased during the year, thirty six America Fire Extinguishers, — one for
each engine, hose, and ladder house and police station in the city ; the right to
use Ballamy's Patent Hose Bridge Protector, for enabling horse-cars to pass
over lines of hose without injury ; also circulating water-heaters for each
engine. This latter contrivance was the invention of Mr. James W. Sutton, of
Detroit, Mich., one of the fire commissioners for that city. Previous to the
introduction of this appliance fire had to be lighted under the boiler before
starting, which issued volumes of smoke as the engine proceeded along the
streets, and was a source of complaint to pedestrians and others. Three
thousand six hundred and thirty-one feet of two and one-half inch hose were
added to the depai'tment, also three horses. During the winter season the
force of horse were increased to the number of twenty, at an expense to the
city of keeping only.
During the great Peace Jubilee, held in this city during 1869, there were
detailed from this department one hundred men to take part in the anvil
chorus. This force was under the command of Captain Bagley of Engine
No. 4. Their appearance was always greeted with the greatest enthusiasm
from the vast audience of fifty thousand people. In addition to this number
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 261
of men, there were detailed from the service twelve hosemen, with Engine
No. 10, fully equipped, with au extra hose-carriage and one thousand feet of
hose, to remain on duty during the time of the completion of the building
and through the jubilee week. A room was fitted up in the Coliseum build-
ing for the engine and hose-carriage and horses ; also one for the accommo-
dation of the men. This was furnished with twelve beds. This force was
under the command of Engineer Tyng, of Engine No. 10, and w^as detailed
for duty night and day. In addition to the labors assigned them, the men
was most efficient in <;aring for the large number of people who fainted, while
the wives of these " fire laddies" rendered most valuable assistance to this
class of persons.
On the recommendation of Chief Damrell, the parade and review of the
department, that for years took place on July 4, was discontinued, and an
order passed by the City Council, whereby the parade would occur on Sep-
tember 17, the anniversary of the settlement of Boston. Mr. Joseph Barnes
was appointed on the Board of Engineers during the year, w^hich increased
the number serving in that office to thirteen. New members, changes, etc.,
in the department during 1869 were as follows : —
Engine Company No. 1, H. B. Farnham and J. C. Healey, hosemen.
No. 2, H. F. Ferrin, hoseman. No. 3, W. S. Lawrence, liosemau. No. 4,
J. G. Duffy, hoseman. No. 5, John G. Phillips, hoseman. No. 6, Thomas
Young, hoseman. No. 7, George W. Stoddard, hoseman. No. 8, engine
built by Messrs. Jucket & Freeman, and put in service April 26, 1869 ; J. D.
Brown, D. N. Jeffery, and M. B. White, hosemen; G. F. C. Hamilton died
June 5. No. 10, William H. Skimmings, Jr., hoseman. Engine No. 11
was named the "John S. Damrell," in honor of the chief engineer. L. F.
Merrill, hoseman ; engine built by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Com-
panj^, and put in service, September 17, 1870. No. 14, Jefferson Stimpson,
died August 10. Walter E. Hawes, Engine No. 15 ; thej^ were temporarily
located in the house of Ladder No. 5 until their building was erected ; the
engine was built by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, and put in
service duinng December, 1869 ; David E. Gilman, engineman, transferred from
Engine No. 2 ; James Kain, fireman ; E. C. Phillips, driver, transferred from
Hose No. 1 ; Nicholas C. Cogley, captain, transferred from Hose No. 9 ;
James Bennett, Alouzo Donnells, D. P. Leonard, A. E. Marshall, Charles E.
Reed, B. P. Stowell, transferred from Engine No. 2, and O. L. Wood, hose-
men. Hose Company No. 1, Thomas E. Golding, hoseman. No. 2, Frank
Walker, driver; Ambrose Gariboldi, hoseman. No. 4, P. M. Marble, hose-
man. No. 5, E. H. Bright, hoseman. No. 6, J. M. Colby, hoseman ; John
H. Weston, captain, vice Barnes, elected assistant engineer; I. W. Camp-
bell, hoseman ; Benjamin F. Cowden died May 10. Hose No. 9 was named
the "Lawrence," George W. Stone, hoseman. No. 10, A. P. Hawkins,
driver; H. T. Bowers and L. F. Fluet, hosemen. Ladder Company No. 1,
George W. Thompson, driver ; Jerome Carleton, C. H. Knox, and R. A.
262 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Kimball, members. No. 3, L. M. Clifford, transferred to Ladder No. 5 ;
R. B. Riley, member. Ladder 4 was named "Washington," George W.
Frost, member. Hancock Ladder Company, No. 5, house on Fourth street,
near Dorchester, South Boston ; the carriage under their charge was the
old No. 1, until their own truck was ready; Benjamin F. Donnell, driver ;
transferred from Hose No. 10 ; J. B. Hill, captain ; L. M. Clifford, assistant,
transferred from Ladder No. 3 ; A. E. Goodwin, R. R. Jones, Appleton
Lathe, David Kurrus, A. W. McKenzie, E. A. Perkins, J. J. Bell, Humph-
rey Choate, T. C. Dunn, H. B. Fowler, J. H. Howard, J. A. Hodgkins,
Lyman Locke, Charles Spear, William Sheene, F. B. Sibley, and Daniel
Weston, members.
The pay-roll of the department was revised during 1869-70, as follows :
chief engineer^ $3,000; secretary, $1,500; assistants, $500; foremen, $300;
all other members, $275 per year; enginemen, $3.50; firemen, $3.25; and
drivers, $3 per day. The number of hj^drants established during the year
were thirty-nine in city proper, six in South Boston, four in East Boston, and
one hundred and ninety-seven in Roxbury district.
The number of alarms from January 1, 1869, to December 31, 1869,
was three hundred and eighty-five ; loss, $437,723 ; insurance, $335,975.
The first fire of importance broke out on January 2, at the warehouse of W.
F. Weld & Co., 40 Centi-al wharf ; a large quantity of nutmegs was destroyed ;
loss, $15,500 ; insured. Hotel Pelham had a number of rooms damaged by a
fire on the 27th ; loss, $2,800 ; insured. On February 9, a block of six
wooden houses at the corner of Swan and Colony streets, South Boston, was
destroyed ; owned by Mrs. Mary Hennessey ; no loss returned. March 5,
Engineman W. H. Sturtevant, of Engine No. 11, had two of his fingers so
badly crushed during a fire at 81 Meridian street as to render amputation
necessary. The lumber-yard of D. N. Skillings & Co., of East Cambridge,
was destroj'ed on the 8th ; assistance being asked from the department.
Engines Nos. 4, 6, 7, 8, and 10, Hose Nos. 1 and 3, and Ladder No. 1, were
despatched. The cordage warehouse of Sewall, Day, & Co., at 83 Commer-
cial street, was damaged on March 25 ; loss, $137,000. May 13, the
establishment of Freeman, Snow, & Co., rear of Federal street and Mt.
Washington avenue, was badly damaged ; twenty horses were saved ; loss,
$12,000 ; insured, $10,000. The East Boston ferryboat " Lincoln " was dis-
covered on fire by the captain just as it was entering the slip on the
Boston side, July 25 ; loss not stated. On September 8, Engines 4, 6, 8, and
10, and Hose 1 and 3 were despatched to a large fire at East Cambridge. Mr.
J. M. Tucker of Engine No. 5 had two of his fingers taken off by unreeling the
hose at a fire in Winthrop, Mass., on October 7, to which assistance had been
sent from the East Boston service. The Belcher House on Purchase street was
on fire November 14th. Assistant Engineer Jacobs was badly injured by the
falling of a wall. The ruins of the immense Coliseum building were discovered
on fire at 10.32 on November 20 ; loss not stated. The Boston Flour Mills, at
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIBE BEPABTMENT. 263
47 to 52 Commercial street, were destroyed ou December 7. On account of
the heavy fall of snow, much difficulty was experienced by the department in
responding to the alarm. George C. Feruald of Hose 5 was ruptured at this
fire. On the 10th, a wooden building on Chapel place occupied by several
families was destroyed. Two children of Cornelius Sullivan were smothered.
The Carney Hospital was badly damaged on December 25. The fire was con-
fined to the basement of the chapel, and was caused by an explosion of the
boiler; and at 2.08 A.M., the same day, the cottage attached to the Insane
Asylum at South Boston was badly damaged.
On June 4, 1869, the inhabitants of Dorchester and Boston voted to
accept an act of the Legislature uniting the two corporations, and ou Janu-
ary 3, 1870, the ancient town became the sixteenth ward of the city. By
this annexation there was turned over to the Boston department by S. H.
Hebard, chief engineer of Dorchester, all the property in possession of that
department belonging to the town. The organized force of that territory
was as follows : six steam fire-engines, two hand-hose carriages, and two hook-
and-ladder carriages fully equipped for service, with seventeen horses. The
number of men enrolled as members was one hundred and five, classified as
follows : one chief engineer, five assistant engineers, six enginemeu, six
firemen, ten driveis, who acted as clerks of the companies, eight foremen,
and sixty-nine members. The houses were the finest in the department. B}'
a vote of the City Council in the month of May that force was reduced to one
assistant engineer and eighty-four members, being a reduction of twenty
men. Mr. Sylvester H. Hebard, the chief, was appointed on the Board of
Engineers in charge of that district, which was numbered 8.
New engines were purchased for the department to take the places of Nos.
7, 10, 13, and 14, a hose-carriage for No. 2, and a new ladder-truck for No. 3,
while the houses occupied by Engine Companies Nos. 2, 5, 11, and 14, and
Ladder Company No. I, were thoroughly remodelled. The building occupied
by Engine No. 4 was taken down and the engine was removed to J. B. Smith's
stable on Bulfinch street until a new building could be erected. Ten thousand
one hundred and fifty feet of two and a half inch hose was also added to the
service, one thousand one hundred and nineteen feet of which was entirely
burnt in the large fire of July 25 and 27. The amount of repairs to the ap-
jjaratus occasioned by this conflagration amounted to one- third the whole sum
paid for repairs during the year. Three additional fuel-wagons were pro-
vided, — one at Hose-house No. 3, one at Engine-house No. 16, and one at
Engine-house No. 17. The spare apparatus now consisted of old Engines
Nos. 3, 4, 5, 7, and 10, Ladder No. 1, one hand-engine at the house of Lad-
der No. 3, and Hose-carriages Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8.
Mr. Charles R. Classen was appointed assistant secretary to the Board of
Engineers. The changes in the companies for 1870 were as follows : Engine
Company No. 2, George J. DeLuce, hoseman. No. 3, Nathan L. Hussey,
hoseman ; James F. Dutton died June 19. No. 5, Lewis Keen, hoseman.
No. 7, engine built by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, was put in
264 HISTOIiY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
service September 25, 1870, Chandler Griffin, hoseman. No. 10, engine
built by Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, was put in service February
1, 1870; it was of the newest pattern, with crane-neck frame, so that the
engine could be turned around within its length ; Jackson L. Stinson and
George "W. Andrews, hosemen. No. 13, built by Messrs. Jucket & Free-
man of Boston, was put in service April, 1870. No. 14, engine built by
the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, was put in service September 17,
1870. S. H. Hebard P3ugiue Company, No. 16, house on Temple street,
Dorchester ; engine was built by Mr. William Jeffers, of Pawtucket, E.I. ;
put in service October 20, 1869 ; Eugene H. Freeman, enginemau ; Samuel
O. Hebard, driver; John Hutchinson, captain; W. W. Carsley, William
Shields, M. B. Thayer, T. Strangmau, Jedediah Strangman, H. N. Plummer,
John Bawmister, and Jacob H. Taylor, hosemen. Protector Engine Com-
pany, No. 17, house on Meeting-house Hill, Dorchester; engine built by
Messrs. Hunneman & Co., of Boston, and put in service March, 1866 ; C. C.
Lane, engiueman ; Patrick Freeman, driver; John F. Greenwood, captain;
Albert F. Lake, Thomas J. Hatch, Alexander Glover, Jr., William Jones,
Stephen H. Howe, Rastus Gordon, James F. Finley, and Nathaniel H. Bird,
hosemen. Torrent Engine Company, No. 18, house on Harvard street, Dor-
chester ; engine built b}^ ]\Ir. William Jeffers, of Pawtucket, R.I., and put in
service January, 1870 ; B. Howard Warren, engiueman ; William H. Cooper,
driver ; J. Foster Hewins, captain ; George L. Pitman, W. T. Woodward,
John Connell, M. Hallihan, Timothy Donahue, Henry Forbes, F. W. Broad,
Jr., and David Ripley, hosemen. Alert Engine Company, No. 19, house on
Norfolk street, Dorchester ; engine built by William Jeffers, and put in service
January 1, 1870 ; Ezra B. Hebard, engiueman ; Luther N. Knox, driver ; George
H. Bird, captain ; Charles E. Stephenson, I. A. Williams, H. B. Tucker, John
D. Scannell, E. D. Tower, Jonathan Baker, George F. Fenno, and Warren
Berry, hosemen. Independence Engine Company, No. 20, house on Walnut
street, Dorchester; engine built by William Jeffers, and put in service Janu-
ary, 1870 ; Franklin Muzzy, engiueman ; George Simpson, driver ; Horace A.
Allyn, captain ; William G. Blanchard, F. C. P. Emery, William R. Pills-
bury, George W. Richardson, John E. Tuttle, Fred H. Bronsdon, George G.
Dennison, and William O. Swan, hosemen. J. H. Upham Engine Company,
No. 21, house on Boston street, Dorchester; engine built by William Jeffers,
and put in service December 27, 1869 ; J. R. Gilbert, engiueman ; S. H. Bridg-
ham, driver; J. B. Graham, captain; J. F. Williams, A. E. Richardson, R.
T. Glidden, James Crosby, C. O. Stinson, T. Hersey, J. E. Caswell, and
Oliver Davenport, hosemen.
Hose Company No. 2, carriage built by Messrs. Hunneman «& Co., Bos-
ton, and put in service September 17, 1870. No. 3, Robert M. Young died
December 27, 1870. No. 4, J. L. Gilbert, hoseman. No. 5, carriage built
by Messrs. L. B. Button of Waterford, N.Y., and put in service September 17,
1870 ; George C. Fernald, captain ; Charles H. Morse, hoseman. No. 6, James
T. Cummings, hoseman. No. 7, William E. Hamnett. No. 8, carriage built b}^
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 265
the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, and put in service September 17,
1870 ; W. S. Leighton and H. McLaughlin, hosemen ; W. S. Leigliton died
August 22. Ladder Company No. 1, Asa Freeman, M. D. Gill, J. C. Brofield,
O. B. Bussey, Thomas E. Fennelly, and Martin Hathaway, members. No. 3,
truck originally built by George Bruce & Co., June 1, 1860, but rebuilt by
Messrs. Hunueman & Co. during 1870 ; James Fennity, member. Hancock, No.
5, truck built by Huuneman & Co., and put in service March 3, 1870 ; George
H. Vinal and S. H. Whitney, members. General Grant Ladder Company,
No. 6, house on Temple street, Dorchester ; truck built by IMessrs. Chap-
man & Strangman, of Milton Lower Mills, Mass., and put in service Decem-
ber, 1869 ; David S. Black, driver ; Henry Crane, captain ; Samuel Bridget,
assistant; James H. Bourne, E. B. Smith, Henry Crane, Jr., C. E. Skinner,
S. B. Locklin, and Elijah Piper, members. Everett Ladder Company, No. 7,
house on Meeting-house Hill, Dorchester ; truck built by Messrs. Jucket &
Freeman, Boston, and put in service January, 1869 ; Jason Gordon, driver ;
Hartford Davenport, captain ; Lewis P. Bird, assistant ; Edmund Truran, J.
P. Curtis, W. L. Moulton, R. N. Elmes, George Haffermill, and George F.
Oliver, members.
Additional signals were made during the- year by the committee on fire
alarms, whereby second alarms were given by striking ten blows, and third
alarm, twelve blows ; general alarm, twelve blows three times. In case ladder
companies only were wanted, the signal was given by striking ten blows once,
with the number of the company wanted struck twice. If more than one com-
pany, the number to be struck twice. Twenty-five additional signal-boxes
were added by the annexation of Dorchester. The number of new hydrants
were twenty-two in the city, twelve in South Boston, three in East Boston,
ninety-nine in Roxbury, and fourteen in Dorchester.
More alarms of fire were rung in during the year than at any other time
since the department was organized, there being four hundred and ninety-seven.
But the loss by fire was not so much in comparison ; it was $855,571 ; in-
surance, $786,463. The number of accidents and deaths was also very large.
The first fire of note occurred on January 14, at 197 to 199 Portland street,
occupied by retail merchants ; loss, $12,700 ; insurance, $9,000. While in
the act of coupling a hose at this fire, Mr. Thomas Young, a member of En-
gine 6, was struck by a passing team, which threw him upon his face, break-
ing his lower jaw. The most terrible conflagration for the extent of life lost
broke out at 10.30 A.M., March 2, at the cotton-drying establishment of Mr.
George McBride, at Granite bridge, Adams street, Dorchester. Six women
employed in the upper story picking over cotton were burnt to death. Loss
to building, $6,700 ; insured. On the 7th, three small children were locked
in a room in a building at 297 Athens street. South Boston, when it caught
fire. The children were reached just in time to save them from a terrible
death. On the 19th, the building known as Gore block, at the corner of
Green and Pitts streets, and occupied by a number of manufacturing firms,
was destroyed ; loss, $49,594 ; insured. While at work at this fire, Mr.
266 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPARTMENT.
George Demary, of Engine 10, was severely burned. A very large fire broke
out on April 30 in a building at the corner of Canal and Travers streets, occu-
pied by N. P. Duty, which communicated to a number of others. Assistant
Engineer Jacobs and J. A. Fynes had a narrow escape from death ; they were
seriously injured. During the fire some flying cinders set fire to C. P. Vinal's
stable on Charles street, but it was extinguished without an alarm. There was
also a fire in the junk store of William Boyle, 107 Merrimac street, but it was
extinguished by Engine 13, which was stationed there. The Bay State Wood-
Moulding Mill, at 411 Tremout street, owned by J. F. Paul & Co., was con-
sumed on April 19; loss, $13,800; insured. The Bay State Collar Com-
pany's premises, at the corner of Lincoln and Essex streets, were destroyed
May 29. On July 17^ a building on Mindora street, occupied by several
families, was destroyed. While going to this fire the hose-carriage belong-
ing to Engine 13 was overturned at the corner of Tremont and Culvert
streets, and Mr. Francis Swift, who was driving, was thrown to the ground
and severely injured. The grain elevator of the Boston & Lowell Railroad
fell in on the 25th, and buried three men in its ruins.
At 3.21 P.M. July 25 fire broke out in the dwelling occupied by
R. Wright on London and Border streets. East Boston, and damaged a num-
ber of buildings on those streets. Eight alarms were rung in for this fire ;
loss, $145,000. At 6.29 P.M. the bookstore of Messrs. Little, Brown, & Co.,
110 Washington street, together with several other stores, was burnt out ; loss,
$24,298. Mr, William Lewis of Ladder 1 fell through a scuttle a distance
of five stories and sustained serious injuries. On the 27th the ropewalk of
Joseph Nickerson & Co., at the corner of Harrison avenue and Hunneman
street, together with eleven dwelling-houses, was consumed ; loss not returned.
A building at the corner of Hanover and Battery streets fell down, August
5, killing one man and wounding several others. On September 21, at a fire
at 1 Otis street, Mr. Thomas Merritt of Engine 4 fell from the hose-carriage
and broke his leg, and Charles H. Dutton of Engine 8 was run over by a
buggy. On the 28th, Mr. A. P. Hawkins, driver of Hose 10, received severe
injuries by the breaking of hose-carriage while going to a fire on Seventh
street. Mr. Lewis Briggs, engineman of Engine 4, while going to a fire at
10 Beach street, on October 13, was run over by the hose-carriage, which
severely injured both of his legs. Engine No. 11, while going to a fire at 31
Pembroke street on the 21st, ran over a boy, severely bruising both his legs.
The Boston Lead Works, at the corner of Albany and Hamden streets, owned
by J. H. Chadwick & Co., were destroyed on November 5; loss, $166,361.
Assistant Engineer Allen, while at this fire, was severely injured by a portion
of the falling debris; also Mr. M. M. Esdale of Hose No. 10 had his finger
taken off while reeling up the hose. Messrs. Hall & Draper's stable, on
West Dedham street, fell in on the 12th, killing a man by the name of French.
The enginemen in Ward 16 received a salary of $1,000; driver, $800;
foremen, $40 ; assistants and members, $35 per annum.
HItiTOlty OF BOSTOJSr FIRE DEPARTMENT, 267
CHAPTER XI.
1871-1872.
BESIDES the chief engineer and Assistant Engineer Hibarcl, Captain Allen
was put in charge of District No. 8 during 1871. Seven horses and
twelve thousand nine hundred and thirty-two feet of two and a half incli hose
were purchased during the year. The salary of the chief was increased to
$3,300 ; secretary, $1,800 ; foremen in certain wards, $325 and $300 ; in Ward
16, $175. The number of additional hydrants established were, South Boston,
twenty ; East Boston, sixteen ; Roxbury, sixty-eight ; Dorchester, two hundred
and twenty-six, — making a total of two thousand three hundred and seventy-
five supplying the department at a cost of $18 each, or a total of $44,478.
The charge of keeping these hydrants and the ninety-seven reservoirs in repair
was $29,652 ; total for water-supply, $74,130.
Boston, in common with other large cities in the United States, was
visited with an unusual large number of fires during 1871, many of which
threatened to be quite serious ; but by the prompt action and energy of the
members, the city was saved from any serious conflagration. The number of
fires was five hundred and forty-nine ; loss, $704,329.06, which was a
decrease over the loss of the year previous. The first fatal accident happened
on January 8, when Mary A. Clinch, living at 22 Lancaster street, was burnt
to death from the explosion of a kerosene lamp. The Sherman House, on
Court square, was damaged to the extent of $7.80 on the 10th. Messrs.
Hecht Bros., and others, 120 to 126 Pearl street, were burnt out on the 25th ;
loss, $20,000 ; insured. Mr. M. D. Gill was severely cut by glass thrown out
by the explosion of a torpedo at a fire at Foss & Merrill's, 47 Charlestown
street, on the 27th. The Adelphia Theatre, on Central court, was discovered
on fire at 11.29 P.M., February 4, and before it was extinguished several
other buildings were in flames ; loss, $47,000 ; insured. Mr. George W. Stone
of Hose 9, while driving home after the fire, had his hands and feet badly
frozen. On the 25th, the chapel and workshops of the House of Correction,
on First street. South Boston, were destroyed ; loss, $78,000 ; no insurance.
March 11, Mr. R. G. Philips of Hose 10 had a finger taken off by being
caught in the chain-gearing of hose-carriage, at a fire on First street, South
Boston. The works of the Suffolk Glass Company, and several other buildings
on Lowland street, South Boston, were burnt on the 24th ; loss, $32,000 ;
insured. John G. Duffy of Engine 4 was severely cut in the foot by falling
glass at a fire at 55 Charlestown street, April 4. On the 13th, Capt. C. H.
Blake of Engine 8 was run over by hose- carriage and slightly injured, while
268 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
going to a fire at 42 Cross street. A block of five tenement houses on First
street, South Boston, was destroyed on the 20th; loss, $23,726 ; insured.
While going to a fire at Jamaica Plain on the 21st, Ladder Truck 4, in turning
a corner, ran into a buggy driven by J. T. Eldridge, thereby breaking it, and
killing the horse ; Mr. and Mrs. Eldridge were slightly bruised. The Sailors'
National Home at North Quincy was destroyed on May 17. Mr. James
Gordon, driver of Ladder 7, while driving out of the house to attend this
alarm, was brought in contract with the doors, and severely injured. A
block of seven tenement houses on Hamburg street was burnt on the 20th.
Three alarms were given for a fire in the building, stables, etc., at the corner
of Canal and Market streets, on the 24th ; loss, $7,000 ; insured. Mr. J. M.
Little field, substitute on Hose 7, had the forefinger of one hand taken off by
the chain-gearing of the carriage, while at a fire on Fellows street, June 22.
A general alarm was given on July 17 for a fire m several buildings at the
corner of First street and Dorchester avenue, South Boston ; loss not given.
A. P. Hawkins, driver of Hose 10, had his hand badly burnt. On the 21st, at
a fire of Greesey & Noyes, on the corner of Wareham and Plympton streets,
Messrs. Gaylord and Ryder of Hose 5, and Dalrymple and McLaughlin of
Hose 8, had their hair, eyebrows, and whiskers badly burnt. The Lyman
School on Paris street, East Boston, was destroyed on August 2 ; loss,
$35,000 ; no insurance. William Sheene of Ladder 5 had one of his feet badly
injured by a spike in the end of a ladder, while at a fire on First street, corner
of Dorchester street, South Boston. In answering the second alarm at a fire
at J. McElroy's, rear of 17 Eustis street, the axle of Engine 21 broke, throw-
ing the driver, T. H. Bridgham, to the ground, cutting a very severe gash in
his head. On the 10th, on the same street. Assistant Engineer Allen was
struck in the face with a brick thrown by some rascal in the crowd, which
inflicted a severe contusion. In going to a fire on Paris street. East Boston,
on the 29th, William Hall, Jr., of Engine 5, was run over by the hose-carriage
and badly injured. Henry A. Tracy of Hose 3 was nearly suffocated by
smoke at a fire at the Cr^'stal Glass Company's building, 143 Washington
street, November 29. The house occupied by Engine No. 7, on East street,
was damaged to the extent of $4,500 on December 1. The Warwick House,
1023 Washington street, burned on the 3d ; loss, $13,465 ; insured. Frank S.
Parsons of Engine 7 fell through an open hatchway while at a fire at 411
Broad street, and received severe injuries. Mr. Joseph Crosby, fireman of
Engine 21, received a bad cut on his face, and had two teeth knocked out, by
the Lowery chuck, while taking it off the engine at a fire on Pleasant street,
on the 24th. On the 25th, a building at 20 Blossom street was burnt. Mrs.
Myers, aged seventy-three, a resident, was unable to effect her escape, as the
fire had obtained possession of the stairwa3\ Mr. Chandler Griffin of Ladder
1 managed to effect an entrance from the outside, and succeeded in saving
her from a most horrible death, but not, however, until both were badly burned
about the face and arms. Mr. Charles E. Wilson, driver of the extinguisher
IIISTOBY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 269
wagou, made a misstep, and fell down a flight of stairs (with the extinguisher
on his back), breaking some of the ligaments of his arm. Mr. J. A. Fynes
of Engine 4, and George P. Kingsley of the Insurance Brigade, were both
badly burned about the face and hands in trying to get up the stairs to the
rescue of Mrs. Myers.
The changes and new members during 1871 were as follows : En-
gine Company No. 1, Loring D. Shaw, fireman. No. 4, D. R. Deering,
engineman ; W. T. Cheswell, fireman ; Russel White, driver ; Joseph Pierce,
captain; Russel White, hoseman. Lewis Briggs transferred to Engine 18.
No. 6, L. G. Newman, driver of hose; Henry Daniels, captain; E. A.
Whitehead and Charles Hodgdon, hosemen. No. 7, George W. Stoddard,
driver ; H. N. Wilson, S. A. Neal, and F. S. Parsons, hosemen. C. Griffin
transferred to Ladder 1. No. 9, Samuel L. Fowle, captain. No. 10, William
Parker, captain ; W- B. Lottridge, William Dixon, C. H. Skimmings, and
J. C. Singleton, hosemen. W. H. Bradford died August 31. No. 13, W.
F. Booker, driver of engine ; C. C. Clark, driver of hose ; C. L. Rosemere,
captain ; George W. Hord, G. W. Gilman, and H. S. Kendall, hosemen.
No. 14, Thomas Nannery, engineman, vice George F. Worcester, died August
26. No. 15, Alonzo Donnels, driver, vice J*l. C. Phillips, died January 4.
No. 16, William Shields, fireman; R. L. Mason, hoseman. No. 17, N. H.
Bird, fireman. No. 18, David Ripley, fireman ; Edward Brighara and Lewis
Briggs, hosemen. No. 19, I. A. Williams, fireman. No. 20, W. O. Swan,
fireman; Thomas F. Temple, captain; George W. Berry, hoseman. No. 21,
James Crosby, fireman.
Hose Company No. 2, A. C. Scott, hoseman. No. 3, E. A. Blonde,
vice R. M. Young, died December 27 ; E. F. Barnej', captain. No. 6, Charles
Brooks, driver, vice J. D. Sherman, died March 14 ; J. M. T. Burke, hoseman.
No. 7, B. F. Ansart and J. M. Littleton, hosemen. No. 9, J. J. Conley and
S. H. Luther, hosemen. Ladder Company No. 1, D. C. Bickford, assistant
foreman ; T. B. Flanagan, C. GriflSn, and W. J. Hicks, members. No. 3,
George A. Kennison and F. A. W. Gay, members. No. 4, J. M. Powei's,
vice R. Hickley, died September 4, and G. W. Morse, vice G. S. Fogg, died
September 28. Ladder 5, Anthony Martin, member.
There were added to the department one fire-extinguisher wagon,
equipped with ten extinguishers, and three hundred feet of one and a half
inch hose, also axes, rakes, lanterns, etc. Charles E. Wilson, driver, and J.
A. Fynes, member.
Three new engines were purchased during 1872, — No. 1, put in service
September 17; No. 2, August 7; and No. 9, October 14; the former from
the works of the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, the other two from
Messrs. Hunneman & Co. These engines were built under tlie immediate
supervision of Enginemen Cole, Traver, and Ray. who were appointed by the
chief as inspectors of steam fire-engines. Two hook-and-ladder trucks were
also purchased oii April 13, from Messrs. Hunneman & Co., — one for Ladder
270 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Company 4, the other for No. 6, to be located in the Dorchester district.
Two extinguisher wagons were placed in commission, — No. 2 on April 1, and
located in Ladder-house No. 3, Williston A. Gaylord, driver, and W. I.
Jacobs, member; No. 3 on August 24, and located in Engine-house No. 9,
George Fowle, driver. These wagons were biiilt by Joseph T. Ryan, of
Boston, and carried twenty-five extinguishers each. Two new coal-wagons —
one for East Boston, and one for the city proper — were placed in service. A
new house was erected for the accommodation of Engine Company No. 4
and Extinguisher No. 1 on Bulfiuch street, at an expense of $54,723.54, and
cost of land of $55,000. The building was also used by the Insurance
Brigade and the National Lancers. The spare apparatus were Engines
Nos. 1, 2, 7, 9, and 10, — the latter was thoroughly rebuilt as good as
new, — Ladders 1 and 4, and Hose-carriages Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8. One
hand-engine, known as "Boston," No. 8, was stationed at the Highlands.
Two hundred and seventeen hydrants were established during the year, as
follows : fifty-one in the city, eleven in South Boston, fifteen in East Boston,
seventy in Roxbury, and seventy in Dorchester.
There was also an iron fire-boat placed in the service January 1, 1873.
This fire-boat was about fifty-five tons measurement, and measures seventy-five
feet in length, fifteen feet beam, and seven feet in depth. Her hull was built
of iron, the keel, stem and stern posts being of hammered metal, and the
frames, which were of reverse angle-iron, spread twenty-one inches between
centres, were stiffened by vertical floor-plates. Three keelsons extend the
entire length of the boat. The forecastle below deck was fitted with berths,
table, seats, and lockers for the accommodation of the men. The house on deck
had a cabin, engine, boiler, cook, and hose rooms, all of which were finished
in a substantial and w'orkmaulike manner. The pilot-house was on top of the
main house over the hose-room, and was fitted with seats and mahogany steering-
wheel ; a hand-rail extended around the house to prevent accident, and the top
was covered with tin to insure safety from fire. The main engine was vertical,
direct acting, high pressure, with link motion and independent cut-off valve.
Its diameter, of cylinder was seventeen inches, and seventeen-inch stroke.
The propeller was six feet in diameter, with five inches of wrought-iron shaft ;
two force-pumps driven from the main shaft, and one steam-pump for feeding
the boiler, and a steam siphon-pump for the bilge. The boiler was an upright
tubular, with cylindrical fire-box, twenty-four feet grate surface. The whole
power of the fire-engine machinery was equal in capacity to four first-class fire-
engines, and with all in action would play eight streams at one time. This
machinery was built by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Companj^ and of the
same design as their steam fire-engines. The boat, main engine, machinery,
and boiler were built by the Atlantic Works, East Boston. The total cost of
this boat was $19,893.95. It was named the " William M. Flanders," in
honor of a member of the Common Council of that name.
During the concerts at the Coliseum building during 1873, there were
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPAliTMENT. 271
stationed in a building built expressly for the purpose and adjoining that of
the main building, Engines Nos. 12 and 21, which were kept in constant
readiness for immediate use. The hose was coupled to the engines and run
over the building at different points ; steam was constantly kept up by means
of the circulatory water-heatei'S. In the day-time, during the concerts, mem-
bers of this department were stationed upon the roof with the lines of hose
from the engines. There were daily detailed from the service nineteen men,
who did patrol duty in and about the buikbng, watching for fire, and who took
charge of the sick and fainting. The anvil chorus was, as in the Peace Jubi-
lee, one of the features of the concert. Mr. H. "W". Longley, secretary of the
Board of Engineers, led the one hundred firemen in this performance. After
the concerts were discontinued, one engine and five members were stationed
there until the building was removed.
There had been much sickness among the horses in this service during
the year previous to the appearance of the epidemic so generally prevalent ;
yet up to that time no death had occurred among them. On October 28, the
disease known as the epizootic, or influenza catarrh, attacked them, and so
rapid was its spread, that on the 4th of November jthe entire force was pros-
trated. The services of Dr. Very were secured, the horses placed under his
charge, and every attention given. The disease assumed sevei-al forms ; in
some, the typhoid type ; in others, pneumonia ; and many with kidney troubles
and dropsy. At this time nearly all the horses in this locality were so badly
affected that but few were to be seen upon the streets. Business was almost
suspended for lack of transportation, and such conveyances as necessity
absolutely demanded had to be done by men. The horses in this department
wei-e seriously affected, their feet and legs being cold and badly swollen, and
so weak they could hardly be backed out of their stalls. Upon the appear-
ance of this sudden and sweeping calamit}', the Board of Engineers, after
careful deliberation, voted that the force of the department be doubled, and
that steps be taken immediately to supply the force, so that no unreasonable
delay should occur in the transportation of the apparatus in case of fire. In
addition to the doubling of the force, it was voted, should the exigency arise,
to levy upon and press into the service of the city, in their several fire dis-
tricts, any horses that were available. The vote was approved by the com-
mittee on fire department, and the proceedings published in the daily
papers. The direct loss to the department by death from this disease was
one horse each from Engines Nos. 3, 4, and 17, and Ladder 3. Twelve
others were rendered unfit for the service and were exchanged.
Mr. Levi W. Shaw and George W. Clark were appointed on the Boai'd of
Engineers. The changes, etc., in the department for 1872, were as follows :
Engine Company No. 1, H. L. Wallingford, hoseman. No. 2, Robert J.
Tagen, hoseman. No. 3, J. H. Lefavor, driver; AV". T. Hines, hoseman.
No. 4, house in Bulfinch street, Matthias Conley, captain ; W. M. Blood,
hoseman, vice J. A. Fynes, transferred to Extinguisher Company No. 1.
272 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
No. 5, J. E. Wharton, hoseman, vice G. Sherman, appomted driver Hose 11.
No. (f, J. W. Groves, E. T. Wilson, vice T. Young, killed November 5, and
T. W. Freeman, hoseman, vice C. E. Wilson, appointed driver Extinguisher
No. 1. No. 7, Joseph H. Rankin, vice F. S» Parsons, transferred to Hose 9 ;
E. B. Haskell, hoseman. No. 9, George W. Brown, engineman, vice James
Grace, resigned ; J. W. Smith, hoseman. No. 10, William Hudson, fireman ;
J. S. King, vice W. B. Lottridge, transferred to Hose 1. No. 11, George L.
Imbert, fireman ; John Bickford, driver, vice G. W. Brown, transferred to
Engine 9. No. 12, William H. Gay, hoseman. No. 13. Francis Swift,
engineman; W. F. Booker, fireman; E. B. Burgess, driver; and Francis
Freeman, driver of hose ; Edward J. Roe and S. T. Hoen, hosemen. No. 14,
C. W. Bates, driver ; A. D. Snow, driver of hose ; Dennis Kilduff, vice J.
Watkijis, died January 29 ; George White and M. J. Slattery, hosemen.
No. 15, Benjamin AV. Carpenter, fireman, vice J. Cain, resigned. No. IG,
E. R. Merrill, hoseman. No. 19, George F. Fenno, captain; Joseph Aben-
zeller, hoseman. No. 21, R. E. Flanders of Hose 1, foreman; G. W.
Richardson, hoseman.
Hose Company No. 1, W. B. Lottridge of Hose 1, vice R. p]. Flanders,
transferred to Engine 21. No. 2, Charles Ingersol, hoseman. No. 3, Thomas
H. Kyte, vice George Clark, appointed assistant engineer. No. 4, Joseph H.
Le Cain, captain; Edward Martin and W. B. Marshall, hosemen. No. 5,
H. D. Fernald, vice W. A. Gaylord, transferred to Extinguisher 2 ; George
E. Gardner, hoseman. No. 6, Edward A. Misener, hoseman. No. 7, A. H.
Perry, W. A. Copeland, vice J. W. Sweat, died August 10, and Charles
Miller, vice T. A. Scott resigned, hosemen. No. 8, William Blake, driver ;
S. H. T. Houghton, hoseman. No. 9, T. S. Parsons, transferred. No. 10,
A. P. Hawkins, driver; J. L. Bowers, captain ; John Rae, R. W. Kane, and
A. E. Cluff, hosemen ; R. W. Kane died October 21. No. 11, Gershom Sher-
man, driver. Ladder Company No. 1, I. H. Ware, assistant; V. C. Hanson
and O. F. Severance, members. No. 2, A. C. Turner, assistant. No. 3, I.
K. Jennings, captain ; B. B. AVright, assistant ; J. W. Chase, L. L. Cooper,
and G. W. Warren, members ; ex-Captain Marston was elected to the Common
Council, and L. W. Shaw appointedassistant engineer. No. 4, E. R. Bartlett,
driver ; C. O. Allen and F. W. Munroe, members ; Frank Upton died Decem-
ber 31, 1871. No. 5, George F. Horn, member. No. 6, E. B. Smith, cap-
tain. No. 7, Edmund Fruean, captain.
On account of the distemper among the horses in the city, the committee
on fire department had the force of men in the department increased one
hundred per cent. These were immediately enrolled, and placed on the pay-
roll of the city, to remain on duty from 6 o'clock at night until 7 o'clock in
the morning at the several stations to which they were assigned. Under this
arrangement many alarms were responded to, the apparatus being drawn by
hand, and the alacrity with which they worked called forth praise from the
press as well as from the people, who, with watches in their hands, timed
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 273
the apparatus on its way to the scene of action, and manifested their approval
of this old-time custom by cheers and the clapping of hands.
Such was the condition of the city, — its horses down with the epizootic,
its business blocked, its citizens nervous and impatient, the fire depai'tment
greatly crippled, especially in the suburban districts — when it was visited by
a conflagration so extensive in dimensions and appalling in result that all
others fade into insignificance. November 9, 1872, was one of those beautiful
autumnal days so common in New England ; the air was clear and exhilarat-
ing ; not a cloud obscured the sun, and the gentle breeze, veering occasionally
two or three points between north and north-west, did not exceed seven miles
an hour. As the day went out, and twilight settled over the valleys, a moi'e
beautiful sunset was never seen. Sick horses were convalescent and on the
road to ultimate recovery. The fear which had hung over the city or a
week, like a cloud, was gradually lifting, and showed a silver lining. The
wholesale business centre of the city had been deserted and surrendered to
the guardians of its peace and safety, the owners and occupants of the
great mercantile houses of brick, stone, and iron having gone hours before
to their respective homes with no warning or thought of impending danger.
The city had for a long time enjoyed freedom from the fire-fiend's depreda-
tions, which fact was universally credited to the vigilance and esprit de corps
which characterized the j^^Tsonnel of the department. But at the close of this
beautiful day the enemy appeared, and attacked the very citadel of the city's
strength, built of obdurate metal and mineral, and it succumbed at the first
onslaught.
At 7.20 P.M. Box 52 was sounded. This was followed by four alarms
in rapid succession, calling the entire working force of the department. The
force of the city proper consisted of six engines, six hose companies, two
hook-and-ladder companies, a chief, and seven assistant engineers, and a
total of one hundred and eighty-five men. There was a fearful delay in
sounding out the first alarm. This was caused by the fact that Engine No. 7
and Hose No. 2 were already at work, which impressed the officers on that
beat with the idea that the alarm had already been turned in by some person
who had discovered the fire. Hence the largest portion of the department
was first notified by the brilliant pyrotechnic display which illuminated the
entire city, and the apparatus hastened to the scene. It was fifteen minutes
after the fire was discover^ed by the men of Engine No. 7 before the alarm
was sourided on the bells, by which time the fire assumed fearful proportions.
This was a terrible misfortune, and just who was to blame investigation failed
to show.
The fire originated in a six-story granite building on the corner of Sum-
mer and Kingston streets, and occupied on the first floor by Tebbetts,
Baldwin, & Davis, dry good jobbers ; A. K. Young, on the third and fourth
stories as a manufacturer of skirts and corsets ; on the second floor, Damon,
Temple, & Co., fancy goods. Opposite this building Engine No. 4 had taken
274
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPARTMENT.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 275
its position, — although at the time of the alarm the heat was so intense that
it was extremely dangerous to locate any piece of appai-atus within a hundred
feet of the actual seat of tire, — and was taking water from a flush hydrant,
the kind used in the city, and located within five feet of the ashlar line of the
buildings. So intense was the heat, that the stone coping of the building,
sixty feet distant from the fire, began to burst and crumble, and a piece of
it fell and severed the suction, compelling the engine to retire to another source
of supply. So rapid was the spread of fire that at the moment of giving the
alarm, six other equally large granite buildings were enveloped in flames, and
the building where it originated was a roaring furnace.
About an hour from the time the alarm sounded, assistance was sum-
moned from every point within a radius of fifty miles, and every municipality
nobly responded. Couriers were despatched to all suburban towns that could
not be reached by telegraph. Hose in the several warehouses of the city was
seized by order of Chief Damrell, taken to the City Hall, and from there dis-
tributed as emergency required, and all was duly accounted for. The engines
in use being of the Amoskeag pattern. Governor Straw, superintendent of the
Amoskeag JNIanufacturing Company, was telegraphed to send a corps of work-
men with duplicate parts of the engines, to meet every crisis that might occur.
The key of the fire was Avell understood, and the departments of Boston,
Cambridge, Charlestown, and the Navy Yard, were massed in a battery at
this point, which embraced Arch, Devonshire, and Summer streets, and Wiu-
throp square, and the territory bounded by them. Owing to the diminished
supply of water, all outlying draughts upon pipes and mains were ordered
closed, and the full power of the battery concentrated at this point. It was a
fight for the city and for life. But in a moment, as it were, when success bid
fair to be achieved, the water-supply failed, and the force was obliged to re-
tire, not whipped, but driven back by overwhelming odds. This determined
the fate of the fire district, and from this moment the power of the elements
defied description. Granite fronts and walls burst out and fell, breaking the
principal water and gas mains and the several branches which supplied the
hydrants and buildings. Cellars and sewers were permeated with gas, and
water was wasting and flowing in every direction. By 9 o'clpck the citizens
were becoming wild and frantic, making unreasonable demands on the one
hand, and on the other offering fabulous sums for the desertion of one posi-
tion for the defence of another. Some, in the whirl of excitement, opened
their stores and invited the people to help themselves to the contents. This
was a fearful and demoralizing act, and tended to inflame the thirst of that
class which is ever ready to make the most of others' misfortunes. From this
hour onward, the Board of Engineers fought the fire upon a principle so thor-
oughly understood, that the orders of the chief were often anticipated.
Currents and counter-currents of rarified air rushed in every direction
with the power of a tornado, and new heat-centres were constantly produced,
rendering human power impotent to resist the Niagara of destruction.
276 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Volumes of flaine held full possession of both sides of the street, while gas
and air explosions, and the crash of falling walls, followed each other in such
rapid succession as to resemble the crack of cannonading from a hundred
field-pieces. It was impossible to mass or consolidate the engines, for the
water-supply would not admit of it ; therefore the force was divided into small
detachments. By 10 o'clock, engines from the suburbs began to arrive, and
were assigned to the reservoirs, as their couplings would not connpct with the
hydrants. The induced currents were carefully studied, and the air was found
to be highly rarified with a strong rush upwards, which formed a terrible vac-
uum, and to fill this gave a velocity to the in-rushing oxygen of thirty miles
an hour, and drew the heat from the outward boundary of the fire to its base
or centre. From these facts it was evident to the experienced what the
boundary of the fire would be. At 11 o'clock, members of the city gov-
ernment and leading citizens became so terrified, that all sorts of irrational
demands were made on those upon whom the responsibility of this terrible
battle devolved. Among the methods recommended was the use of gun-
powder as an auxiliary to the work which was now being performed by the
department. This was depreciated by some members of the department as
being impracticable, extremely dangerous, and tending to demoralize the work-
ing force of the city, by reason of the narrow streets, lined with high buildings,
and these stored with inflammable merchandise ; for it was felt that the use of
explosives would tumble these buildings and their contents into confused heaps
of combustibles, which would not be defended as well as if they stood intact,
while the thoroughfare would be blockaded by the debris. Besides all this, it
was urged that the plans of the battle, now well aiTanged and understood
among 'the generals in command, would be interfered with by the desires of
inexperienced and excited men. But the powder was brought into requisition
and used, and with the effect anticipated by those who opposed its use.
The fire raged for eighteen hours with relentless fury. The streets be-
came veritable blow-pipes, by reason of their narrowness and the height of
the buildings upon them, causing such intense heat that blocks of granite
stores would melt, as it were, and fall before the flames had approached withm
five hundred feet of them. At last, the working force had been so aug-
mented by the reenforcements from out of town, that the adequate supply of
water from the tide reservoirs along the southern, eastern, and northern
boundaries of the fire could be made available, and at 3 o'clock in the
morning a continuous line of battle was formed, the right resting on Wash-
ington near Bromfield street, and continuing tlu'ough Washington, State, and
Broad, to Oliver street. This line embraced forty-two steam fire-engines,
which advanced with an ardor and pluck that evinced their determination
to stop and conquer further devastation. The work here performed demanded
and evoked the commendation and admiration of those competent to judge
of its eflicacjs and by it the flauies were driven to a common centre, the
army holding every point gained in the attack.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 277
At 10 o'clock Sunday morning the fearful strain to which the men had
been subjected had brought them to the verge of complete exhaustion, and
the reenforcements that had arrived during the morning hours were most
opportune, bringing temporary relief and rest to those who had been engaged
in such a long superhuman struggle. The limits of the fire were now defined,
and the further spread being out of the question, the work was directed to
the interior of buildings partially destroyed on the boundaries of the fire.
The military organizations were doing magnificent work in keeping the curious-
minded back from dangerous positions, details of the grand army of firemen
wei*e posted to take care of the ruins, and tranquillity again took possession
of the city.
But on midnight on Sunday the city was again aroused by a terrific report
occasioned by a gas explosion on Summer street, near Washington street,
which caused a general alarm to be sent in. This explosion took place in a
block occupied by W. R. Storms & Co. and R. S. Stern & Co., which had
successfully resisted all advances of the fire-fiend the previous night. The
front external wall was blown into the street, the merchandise with which
the building was stored ignited, and a terrific fire was again in full blast, in
close proximity to the two largest dry-goods stores in the city. The excite-
ment caused by tliis fire was even greater than that of the night before ; but
the excellent work of the military in keeping the people at a proper distance
enabled the department and its out-of-town allies to fight with courage and
success, and after four hours of hot endeavor the fire was under control. By
the explosion one life was lost, — that of the mother of Mrs. Martha Hudson,
a lady residing on the premises ; and during the fire a number of firemen were
injured.
A summary of the work of destruction in the gi'eat Boston fire shows
that it bui'ned over sixty-five acres of land, the value of which was placed by tlie
Board of Assessors at $24,365,000, consumed buildings assessed at $12,745,-
000, and destroyed merchandise assessed for $38,434,000 ; add to this
$10,000,000 as a fair estimate of the value of consigned goods, and we have
a grand total in buildings and merchandise of $60,000,000. The Report of
the Board of Fire Commissioners place the total loss at $75,000,000. The
buildings numbered 776, of which 709 were brick and stone, and 67 wood ;
five hundred and fifty were owned by separate estates, and were occupied by
over one thousand business firms. The following table shows the value of
property as destroyed on the streets : —
278
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIR^ DEPARTMENT.
Streets.
Arch
Bath
Broad
Bussey place
Charming
Columbia
Congress
Devonshire
Federal . .
Federal court
Franklin . . .
Gridley . .
Hawes
Hawley
High
Kilby
Leather square
Lincoln
Lindall
Matthew-
Merchants' Exchange
Milk
Milton place
Morton place
Oliver
Otis
Pearl
Pearl place
Carried for ward . .
Value of Land.
fl.S6,000
51,000
1,040,000
30,500
32,000
100,000
2,086,000
1,051,000
2,402,000
30,000
2,222,000
17,000
5,000
174,000
1,389,500
554,000
10,000
37,000
154,000
36,500
450,000
1,991,000
G9,000
G4,000
126,000
339,000
2,466,000
66,700
Value of
Buildings.
$17,129,200
$78,000
19,000
116,000
20,500
11,000
24,500
1,230,000
575,000
1,356,000
3,000
1,401,000
9,000
500
73,000
1,021,000
195,500
4,000
45,000
68,000
46,500
100,000 j
910,000 i
I
t
36,000
45,000
87,000
216,000
1,531,000 i
Personal.
$191,800
15,300
295,000
5,000
10,000
3,009,900
2,561,800
3,367,300
5,841,600
41,800
54,000
3,326,100
1,243,400
8,500
53,500
40,000
2,944,600
10,000
14,900
150,000
1,056,500
7,251,800
2,000
$8,965,300 i $31,453,000
Square Feet
of Land.
9,995
4,500
391,120
5,345
3,910
8,560
176,135
55,880
208,801
6,510
111,355
3,45G
500
16,644
118,514
27,473
2,500
6,069
12,057
6,012
1,700
103,144
15,230
14,680
12,358
19,720
218,590
15,388
1,575,156
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
279
STREETS.
Bro light forward
Purchase
South
Sturgis
Sullivan place
Summer
Washington
Water
"Winthrop square . .
Total
Value of Land.
$17,129,200
427,000
177,000
8,000
10,000
3,616,000
1,930,000
725,000
343,000
$24,365,200
Value of
Buildings.
$8,965,300
153,000
33,000
4,000
4,000
2,023,000
766,000
242,000
255,000
PerBonai.
Square Feet
of Land.
$31,453,000
71,000
4,042,700
1,794,100
170,400
922,600
$12,745,300
$38,453,800
1,575,155
50,152
21,658
1,125
2,280
225,590
73,433
31,169
18,963
1,999,525
By comparing the map of the burnt district on page 274 with one of the
present day, the changes in location of streets made after the fire may be
seen.
The cost of these improvements amounted to over $5,000,000. The old
streets were so narrow and crooked that it was at first proposed to lay out
the territory on an entirely new plan ; but it was found on examination that
the city could not give a good title to the land included in. the old streets,
and the improvement was therefore restricted to the widening and straighten-
ing of the old ways.
As a matter of course, the insurance companies were heavy losers, twenty
of which were bankrupted, and on December 18, 1872, an act was passed by
the Legislature respecting the formation of insurance companies.
The following is a statement of the number of engines, hose, and hook-
and-ladder carriages, with the number of men and amount of hose, that
attended the great fire of November 9, 1872, from out of town : —
280
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Chief Engineer.
City or Town.
Sngines.
Hose.
Hook &
Ladder.
Men.
Feet of
Hose.
P. H. Raymond
Cambridge, Mass
3
2
1
75
1,500
William E. Delano . .
Charlestown, " 1
2
3
60
2,000
Samuel Hutchins .....
Chelsea, " ....
1
2
85
1,000
W. W.. Kimball
Lynn, " ....
2
2
27
1,400
D. B Lord.
Salem, " ....
Lawrence, " ....i
2
1
1
1
67
11
2,000
Luther Ladd
700
Alfred Kenrick, Jr. . .
Brookline, "
1(h)
1
1
69
1,100
C. A. Belford.
W. Roxbury, " ....
2 1
1
21
1,200
James R. Hopkins
Somerville, "
1
' \
60
1,200
A. D. Drew
Watertown, "
]
1
21
800
R. M. Lucas
Newton, " ...
2
2
51
1,750
S. E. Combs
Worcester, " ....
Fall River, "
2
2
3
4
.
60
60
3,800
Thomas J. Borden . .
2,200
Onslow Gilraore
Stoneham, "
1
1
18
850
T. W. Hough
Maiden, "
1
2
54
2,000
John R. Norton
Melrose, "
2
1
15
400
Benjamin H. Simmin.
Medford, " ...
1
2
40
1,000
Charles H. Davis . .
jWakefield, " ....
2(h)
88
750
William H. Temple
Reading, "
1(h)
1
105
500
A. H. How land, Jr. .
New Bedford,"
1
1
26
700
Marshall Parks
Waltham, "
1
1
14
700
Oliver E. Green
Providence, R.I
3
3
30
1
1,700
A. C. Hendrick ...
New Haven, Conn. . . .
1
1
22
900
Daniel A. Delaraoy
Norwich, "
2
3
166
2,300
S. L. Marston
1
Portsmouth, N.H
1
1
45
1,100
B. C. Kendall
Manchester, "
2
2
63
1,200
Biddeford, Me
2
175
3,000
E. G. Parrott, Com .
Charlestown N. Yard.
2 '
2
1
81
1,000
T. T. J. Laidley, " .
Watertown Arsehal .
1
2
i
25
■ 1,100
E. P. Davis
Hyde Park, Mass. . .
1
1
!
55
1,200
1 45
52
3
1,689
41,050
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 281
The list of killed and wounded at this fire is as follows : —
William Farry, Foreman of Hook aud Ladder Company No. 4, Boston,
killed.
Daniel Cochrane, Assistant Foreman of Hook and Ladder Company
No. 4, Boston, killed.
Henry Rogers, Volunteer, Engine Company No. 6, Boston, killed.
Michael Fitzgerald, Citizen, Boston, killed.
Lewis P. Abbott, Ex-member of Fire Department, Charlestown, killed.
William S. Frazier, Volunteer, Cambridge, killed.
Frank D. Olmstead, Volunteer, Cambridge, killed.
John Connelly, Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, West Roxbury,
killed.
Walter S. Twombly, Hose Company No. 2, Maiden, killed.
Thomas Maloney, Member of Fire Department, Worcester, killed.
Lewis C. Thompson, Citizen, Worcester, killed.
Thomas Mooney, Volunteer, Engine Company No. 9, Boston, slightly
injured.
Martin TurnbuU, Hose Company No. 3, Charlestown, killed.
Thomas M. Paine, Volunteer, Charlestown, seriously injured.
Charles T. Walden, Volunteer, Charlestown, slightly injured.
Albert C. Abbott, Ex-member, Charlestown, killed.
Francis P. Scanlau, Engine Company No. 1, Cambridge, slightly injured.
Richard F. Tobin, Engine Company No. 2, Cambridge, slightly injured.
William H. Jenness, Ex-member, Cambridge, seriously injured.
Murphy, Volunteer, Cambridge, slightly injured.
Lewis C. Clark, Hook and Ladder Company, Cambridge, slightly in-
jured.
George H. Smith, Member of engine connected with Watertown Arsenal,
slightly injured. '
Assistant Engineer Angler, Fire Department, Somerville, slightly in-
jured.
E. P. Small, Member of Fire Department, Somerville, slightly injured.'
John Richardson, Volunteer, New Haven, seriously injured.
A. N. Cotton, Assistant Engineer, Medford, slightly injured.
Benjamin D. Griggs, Member of Fire Department, West Newton, slightly
injured.
R. E. Extell, Member of Fire Department, Worcester, seriously injured.
Thomas McCann, Member of Fire Department, Worcester, seriously in-
jured.
Jacob E. Hook, Member of Fire Department, Maiden, seriously injured.
A large number of, citizens met at the Mayor's office. City Hall, and
cooperated with the city government in such action as was necessary. They
282 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
adopted resolutions expressive of its sympathy for the sufferers by the fire,
and appointed a committee for the purpose of extending immediate aid to
tliose needing assistance, and also tendered a vote of thanks to the firemen.
Generous offers of aid were received from all parts of the country, and work
for the immediate relief of the distressed was begun. Before the fire had
ceased burning, and while everything was unsettled, a large number of
merchants secured new quarters and resumed business on Monday morning.
Others commenced the erection of temporary buildings, some on the ruins of
their warehouses, on the Common, and on the site of Fort Hill. An act was
passed by the Legislature to enable the city of Boston to make and issue its
bonds for certain purposes, for an amount not exceeding $20,000,000, bear-
ing an interest of not more than five and six per cent., for no more than
fifteen years. This was under the management of a board of three commis-
sioners, who were to determine the amount of loan to be given to those who
were burnt out during the conflagration, which loan was secured by notes or
bonds of such owners, secured by first mortgages of the land, on condition that
building be commenced upon the land within one year from January 1, 1873.
On December 14, 1872, an act was also passed by the same body, en-
titled ' ' In addition to an act to provide for the regulation and inspection of
buildings, the more effectual prevention of fire, and the better preservation of
life and property in Boston."
Hardly had the limits of this terrible fire been established, when the de-
partment was made the recipient of checks rangmg from $1,000 to $10,000
each, until the magnificent sum of $100,000 and upwards was realized for the
benefit of firemen who lost their lives or who were injured at this fire. Of this
amount, over $80,000 was placed in the hands of a Board of Trustees, of
which the Hon. Martin Brimmer was president. There was also sent to the
chief engineer over $20,000, $5,000 of which was paid, as requested, to the
Charitable Association of the Boston Fire Department, the balance to be used
for the benefit of the firemen who were injured, and the families of those who
were killed, according to the judgment and discretion of the chief.
An order from the City Council was received, asking the Board of Engi-
neers to consider and report what steps were necessary to be taken to insure
the lives of the members of the Boston Fire Department. After careful de-
liberation on the part of the board, it was deemed inexpedient io recommend
action to the City Council. The lowest estimate of those obtained from sev-
eral life insurance companies would cost the city the sum of $20,000 annu-
ally to insure the lives of the members of the department in the sum of $1,000
each. It was recommended by the Board of Engineers that the department
mutually insure themselves. This recommendation was adopted, and an or-
ganization was accordingly completed on the 3d of February, 1872. The plan
adopted was, that each member be insured to an amount equal to $2 from each
member of the organization. This organization is known as the Boston Fire-
men's Mutual Relief Association, to which it is compulsory for every member
of the department to belong.
HISTOEY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 283
On November 19, the Mayor was ordered by the City Council to appoint
a scientific commission, consisting of five persons, to investigate the cause of
the fire and the efforts made for its suppression. The commission, consisting
of Messrs. Thomas Russell, Charles G. Green, Samuel C. Cobb, A. Firth,
and E. S. Phil brick, were appointed on November 26, and organized on the
day following. They held forty-two sessions, during which two hundred and
thirty witnesses were examined, their evidence being given verbatim in their
printed report, containing six hundred and sixty-two pages.
Many criticisms were passed upon the ability of Chief Engineer Damrell,
in the management of this conflagration, the most severe coming from parties
who knew comparatively nothing concerning the methods adopted in the ex-
tinguishing of fire. To counteract these, resolutions were passed by the
Board of Engineers of this city, expressing their approval of the action of
their chief. A convention of Engineers of the various departments in the
vicinity of Boston, was held, and the following resolutions passed : —
Engineers' Office, City Hall,
Charlestown, Mass., Nov. 22, 1872.
Convention of Engineers of tlie several Fire Departments in the vicinity of Boston,
held on the evening of the above date, it was jinanimously voted that the following pre-
amble and resolutions be adopted : —
Preamble. Boston having been visited by one of the largest and most destructive
conflagrations in the annals of its history, — such a conflagration as is liable at any moment
to occur in our great cities, — and which was doubly disastrous in the case of Boston, by reason
of the narrow streets and peculiarity of its stately granite warehouses connected for whole
blocks by wooden copings, and surmounted with such aids to spreading a fire as the Man-
sard roofs, with their elaborate and profuse trimmings of wood far above the reach of any
solid stream of water; and some persons have, not only in private, but by means of the
press, madeunjust criticism upon and circulated false reports concerning the course pursued
by Chief Engineer John S. Damrell, in engineering the flames :
Resolved., That the ability, coolness, indomitable courage and perseverance displayed
by Chief Engineer John S. Damrell, in his efforts to arrest the progress of the fire, merits
and receives our earnest and unqualified approbation; also, his assistants, whose untiring
efforts to assist their chief, are entitled to the highest praise and gratitude of the whole
community.
Resolved, That, in our opinion, the use of gunpowder, as applied at the fire, did not
materially arrest the progress or extension of the fire.
Resolved, That the expediency of the use of gunpowder to arrest the progress of a
conflagration is a question upon which there is a wide difference of opinion; and, in our
judgment, if used at all, it should be under the direction of the Engineers and by a Board
created for that purpose; a Board quahfied by experience to judge its effects, of the
quantity necessary to be used, and the manner in which it should be used, and a sufficient
quantity should be kept in packages prepared for use, and to which access could be had
without delay.
Resolved, That we recommend to the different cities and towns throughout the country
to have manufactured for their different fire departments hydrants and hose-couplings of a
size with each other, as, at the Boston fire, several engines from out the city were de-
layed in going to work, being unable for a long time to take water.
Resolved, That the sympathetic letter of Capt. J. H. Roberts, Chief Engineer of the
Savannah Fire Department, to Capt. Damrell, meets with our entire approbation, express-
284 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
ing, as he does, his views with a clearness of perception which does him great honor for
his nobleness of heart and generous spirit, and its reception by Capt. Damrell must have
been a source of great consolation.
Resolved, That we extend to Capt. Damrell an expression of our unwavering confi-
dence in Ms ability as an Engineer, our earnest sympathy and our best wishes for his
speedy and complete restoration to health and strength, and for his future happiness and
prosperity.
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be presented to Chief Engineer John S.
Damrell, of the Boston Fire Department.
Voted, On motion, voted that each Engineer of the Fire Department represented
sign the foregoing preamble and resolutions.
Voted, On motion, voted that Chief Engineer Delano, of Charlestown, Raymond, of
Cambridge, Sampson, of Milford, and Assistant Engineer Simond, of Melrose, be a com-
mittee to present these resolutions
This paper was signed by five officers each /from the Departments of
Charlestown, Cambridge, Somerville, and Navy Yard ; four each from Melrose
and Maiden ; six from Medford ; three each from Chelsea, Lynn, and Brook-
line ; and one from Waterford. James W. Poor was Secretary of the Con-
vention.
The other serious fires during the year were, January 6, the Oxuard Sugar
Refinery, 239 Broad street; loss to stock, $11,330; insured. 15th, D. Lyons.
& Co., gents' furnishing goods, 64 Summer street; loss, $36,350; insured.
During the progress of this fire, Assistant Engineer E. B. Hine, was severely
cut in the thigh with a piece of plate glass. M. C. Sullivan was thrown from
the tender of Engine 4 and run over by the hose-cart. While going to a fire,
at the ship-building works of Messrs. Curtis & Smith, on Border street. East
Boston, Hose No. 9 ran over a man at the corner of Border and Eutaw
streets ; loss at this fire, $43,500 ; insured. At the fire of the building occu-
pied by Mrs. David Reed, on Brainbridge street, on March 5, several of the
firemen were severely frost-bitten. Among the worst was Capt. C. L. Rose-
mere of Engine No. 13, and Engineer Farrar. Loss to property, $10,000;
insurance, $8,000. Captain Hewins of Engine 18 had both his ears badly
frozen at a fire on Washington street the same day. On the 7th, G. L.
Putnam was badl}' injured by a falling beam at a fire on Seaver street. The
St. Elmo Hotel, 25 to 29 Washington street, and other buildings, were burnt
on the 11th. On the 20th, a block of tenement houses on Quincy street was
destroyed; also the steam-shovel works of John Souther & Co., on Granite
street, South Boston ; loss, $11,800 ; insured. At this fire D. E. Connors
of Hose 9 and James McAllister were injured. April 25, at a fire at 147
South street, W. H. Durling was badlj' cut in the head by a stone which fell
from an upper story. At 8.17 o'clock on Fridays the 26th, Box 81 was rung
in for the blowing down of the Coliseum building. Mr. D. W. Appleton
was severely burnt at a fire in Walnut street on May 13. June 23, the wood
store of D. D. Sparhawk & Co., at the corner of Milk and Congress streets,
was burnt; loss, $25,530. The planing-mill of W. W. Bennett, and other
property on Border street. East Boston, was burnt July 12 ; loss not given.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIBE BEPABTMENT. 285
At the burning of the Boston City Flour Mill, 45 to 52 Commercial wharf, on
the 26th, the following accidents occurred : Messrs. G. Sherman and E. With-
erell of Engine No. 5, J. G. Duffy and M. C. Sullivan of Engine No. 4, were
on a forty-foot ladder when it broke in the middle, thereby throwing the men
to the ground. Messrs. Duffy and Sullivan escaped with a few slight bruises.
Sherman broke his arm and ankle, and sustained several other injuries. Mr.
Witherell br.oke his arm. E. H. Bright, a member of Hose 5, was severely
cut upon the arm by falling slate. Loss of property, SI 9, 500 ; insured.
Mr. O. B. Bussey of Ladder Company No. 1 was injured by a falling
hose at afire on August 7, at 156 Blackstone street. At 9.06 P.M. the same
day, the works of the Continental Sugar Refinery, at the corner of First and
A streets, South Boston, were destroyed ; loss, $243,000 ; insured. Eighteen
wholesale boot and shoe stores, numbering SO to 92 Pearl street, were destroyed
on the 7th ; loss, $54,155 ; insured. On the 20th, the wool and cotton ware-
house of T. Remick & Co., Russia wharf, was burnt; loss, $32,696 ; insured.
Mr. N. L. Hussey of Engine No. 3 fell through a scuttle-way, a distance
of fifteen feet, at a fire at 133 Congress street, on the 26th. J. Mclnnes &
Co., wool dealers, 147 Congress street, had iheir building consumed on Sep-
tember 26; loss, $267,800; insurance, $217,000; four other firms; loss,
$11,300 ; fully insured. The Boston Drug Mills and two otiier houses, 5 to
7 Sargent's wharf, were consumed on October 7 ; loss, $12,558 ; insured. D.
Eddy & Son, refrigerator factory, on Gibson street. Ward 16, was burnt on
the 18th ; loss, $5,000 ; insured. The dry-goods establishment of S. S.
Houghton, 55 and 57 Tremont street, was badly damaged on the 22d ; loss
not returned. Mr. Thomas Corrigan, an employee of the Boston Oakum
Compan}', 86 Norfolk avenue, was burnt to death at a fire in that building,
November 8. Five alarms were given for the fire in the building known as
State-street block, on the 18th; loss, $60,000; insurance, $49,000. On
the 20th, at 6.20 o'clock in the evening, the alarm from Box 18 was sounded,
and repeated until a general call was given, for a fire in the building at 3
Cornhill, occupied by Rand & Avery, printers and book-binders. The twelve
firms that suffered by this conflagration lost $198,000 ; insurance, $152,250.
On December 23 another large fire occurred. This time the building 317
Washington street, occupied by Mrs. Charlotte M. Adams, was destroyed,
together with the stores of eleven other firms, on 57 to 61 Temple place, and
311 to 313 Washington street; loss, $141,900; insurance, $94,711. Durmg
the progress of this fire. Assistant Engineer John Calligan was struck with a
stream of water, by which he was seriously injured. The small-pox hospital
at Swett street. Highlands, was burned on the 26th; loss, $18,440; insui'-
ance, $10,000. On the 27th, several sheds used for the storage of freight
by the Portland and Boston Steamship Company, on Long wharf, were con-
sumed ; loss, $20,000 ; no insurance.
Number of alarms, six hundred and forty ; loss, not including the great
fire, $1,516,549; insurance, $1,298,983.
PART III
1873-1888.
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HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 291
PART III.
FROM 1873 TO 1888.
CHAPTER I.
1873-1874.
DURING the early part of 1873 a petition was sent to the City Council,
signed by a number of citizens and tax-payers, praying for the appoint-
ment of an independent board to have the control and management of the fire
department. A series of public hearings were given to the petitioners, as well
as to the remonstrants against the proposed measure, at the City Hall, June 24,
before a joint special committee. As a matter of course the discussions were
very earnest, and the representatives on either side gave very strong reasons
for the acquirement of their cause. The committee representing the majority
report consisted of Messrs. Samuel M. Quincy, Alanson Bigelow, William
H. West, George A. Shaw, George P Denny, and Charles E. Powers.
They offered the following recommendation and suggestions concerning the
reorganization of the department, which it was proposed to commit and
intrust to a permanent board of three commissioners, in accordance with the
prayer of the petition : —
I. Such immediate increase of the permanent force of the department, both in men
and apparatus, as shall in the opinion of the commissioners suffice for the present protec-
tion of the city.
II. The establishment and maintenance, throughout the entire command, of a sys-
tem of strict military discipline and responsibility, together with such instruction, training,
and drill, theoretical as well as practical, as shall bring it to the highest state of efficiency,
together with tlie adoption, so far as necessary for this purpose, of a military form of
organization.
III. The division of the city into fire districts, in each of which an assistant engi-
neer or other officer should reside, held to a knowledge of the character of all buildings
and their contents in relation to the possible origin or spread of fires — such engineer or
officer to have command in such district in the absence of the chief.
IV. The establishment of a fire patrol in each district by detail from the department,
who shall make daily reports of their tour of duty to the engineer or officer in charge,
to be by him transmitted to headquarters. Such patrol to be empowered to make all inves-
tigations necessary to enable them to report all changes in use of buildings, storage of
merchandise, character or habits of occupants, and all other matters which may in any'
292 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIBE DEPARTMENT.
manner bear upon the danger of origin or spread of fire within the district. Such a sys-
tem would give those in command constant information of the state of the lines and the
points of danger most necessary to be strongly covered.
V. The establishment of a body of fire police, in accordance with the prayer of the
petitioners, whose duty it shall be to take charge of the streets and keep the lines at fires.
If it shall be found impracticable or unadvisable to detail this body from the regular
force, we recommend its appointment in addition thereto, and that legislative authority,
therefore, be obtained, if necessary, without delay.
VI. The amount of water-supply necessary and available at different points should,
of course, receive the immediate and earnest attention of the board. Whether all
hydrants and water-apparatus are in proper order for instant use should form part of the
daily patrol report before alluded to, together with the condition of the fire alarm and
boxes.
VII. In view of the surprisingly large expenditures now incurred for tlie repair of
engines and fire-apparatus, the committee would suggest that the establishment of a city
repair shop, with skilled workmen in regular employ, would, in the long run, be found to
be a measure of economy, as has been shown in the case of railway corporations.
VIII. The committee have provided in the ordinance that a report containing such
information concerning fires as is most interesting and useful to the public, be made
monthly instead of annually. The facts will thus be known before the interest of the
matter has died out, and the lesson which they inculcate will be more likely to be
remembered.
The committee, therefore, recommend the passage of the following
ordinance, which was adopted October 13, 1873: —
AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH A FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Section 1. The Fire Department of the City of Boston shall consist of a Board of
three Fire Commissioners, a Chief Engineer, a Superintendent of Fire Alarms, ten As-
sistant Engineers, and other Officers, Engine-men, telegraph operators, and other members,
to the number of five hundred and fifty men.
Sect. 2. In the month of October, in the year 1873, or as soon thereafter as may
be, the Mayor shall appoint, subject to the approval and confirmation of the City Council,
three persons, who shall constitute said Board of Fire Commissioners of the City of
Boston, and who shall have and exercise the powers and duties hereinafter designated.
One member of said Board shall be appointed to hold his office until the first Monday of
May in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy-four, one until the first Monday
of May in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy-five, and one until the first
Monday of May in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy-six. In the month of
April in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy-four, and thereafterwards an-
nually in the month of April, the Mayor shall appoint, subject to like confirmation and
approval, one person to be one of said Fire Commissioners for the term of three years from
the first Monday of the following May. The persons so appointed shall devote their time
to the duties of the office, and shall not actively engage in any other business. Any mem-
ber of said Board shall, at any time, be subject to removal by the Mayor for cause, and all
vacancies occurring in said Board, from any cause, shall be filled in the same manner in
which the original appointments are herein directed to be made. No member of either
branch of the City Council shall hold the office of Fire Commissioner. For their services
the Fire Commissioners shall receive such compensation as the City Council may from
time to time determine.
Sect. 3. The said Board shall organize forthwith upon the first appointment of its
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 293
members, and thereafterwards annually on the first Monday of M.ay, by the choice of one
of their members as chairman. They shall also choose a clerk, who shall not be a member
of the Board ; and they shall make such rules and regulations for their own government
and for the government of all other officers and members of the fire department, including
the fire-alarm telegraph, as they may deem expedient, provided that said rules and regu-
lations shall not be inconsistent with the ordinances of the city.
Sect. 4. The duty of extinguishing fires and protecting life and property in case of
fire, shall within the City of Boston be intrusted to the said Board of Commissioners ; and,
to enable them to perform that duty in the most efficient manner, the said Board is hereby
authorized to appoint all other officers and members of the Fire Department, including the
fire-alarm telegraph, and fix their compensation; to discharge any of said officers or mem-
bers at any time for cause ; to divide the city into fire districts ; to organize companies and
battalions to work the apparatus ; to establish a Fire Patrol by detail from the permanent
force of the department, which shall render such services in connection with the police and
the department for the survey and inspection of buildings as the said Commissioners may
direct; to purchase horses, steam-engines, extinguishers, hose-carriages, hook-and-ladder
carriages, and all other apparatus and supplies necessary for the complete equipment of
the said department, or conducive to the proper performance of its duties ; provided, how-
ever, that the expenditures for the purposes herein named shall not exceed in the aggregate
the sums previously appropriated by the City Council for the maintenance of said Fire
Department.
Sect. 5. The said Board- of Fire Commissioners shall, annually, on or before the
fifteenth day of Februarys send to the City jjiuditor an estimate in detail of the appropriations
required for the maintenance of the Fire Department during the next financial year. All
bills for expenditures from the appropriations for the Fire Department shall be drawn for
by the said Board, examined by the Auditor, and approved by the Committee on Accounts,
before they are paid by the Treasurer.
Sect. 6. The said Board shall, on or before the tenth day of each month, present to
the City Council a report made up to, and including, the last day of the preceding month,
containing a chronological statement of the number of fires in such month, with the causes
thereof, a general description of the property destroyed or injured at each fire, with the
names of the owners or occupants and the amount of insurance, if any, specifying
the portion of the force and apparatus called into action at each fire, with the name of
the officer in command ; also a statement of all fatal or serious accidents to members of the
department or others on account of fires, or alarms of fires, during the month, together with
such other information or suggestions as they may deem proper. They shall also, annually,
in the month of May or June, present to the City Council a report made up to, and includ-
ing, the thirtieth day of the preceding April, containing, in addition to a consolidated state-
ment of the facts contained in the monthly reports of the preceding year, a list of the
causes of fire, alphabetically arranged, a statement of the income and expenditures on ac-
count of the department during the preceding year, a schedule of all the property belong-
ing to the department, with a statement as to its condition on the date of the report, and an
estimate of its value ; also a statetnent of the number and location of the fire-alarm boxes,
together with such other information or suggestions as they may deem proper.
Sect. 7. The Chief Engineer and the Assistant Engineers appointed by the Fire
Commissioners as hereinbefore provided, shall constitute the Board of Engineers of the
City of Boston, and shall have and exercise all the powers conferred upon such officers by
the Statutes of the Commonwealth and by the ordinance in relation to the manufacture,
storage, and sale of petroleum, camphene, and burning-fluids. And they shall also have
authority, under the direction of the Fire Commissioners, to inquire for and examine into
all shops and other places where shavings or other such combustible materials are collected
or deposited, and report to said commissioners from time to time the condition in this
294 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
respect of the district to which they are assigned; and whenever, in the opinion of said
commissioners, the same may endanger the security of the city from fires, they shall direct
the tenant or occupant of said shops or other places to remove such shavings or other com-
bustible materials; and in case of such tenant's or occupant's neglect or refusal so to do,
they shall cause the same to be removed at the expense of such tenant or occupant, who
shall, in addition, be liable to a penalty of not less than five nor more than fifty dollars for
such neglect or refusal ; and any person who shall obstruct the said commissioners or
engineers or any of them in carrying out the provisions of this section shall also be liable
to a penalty of not less tlian five nor more than fifty dollars.
Sect. 8. It shall be the duty of the members of the Police Department to aid the
Fire Department by giving alarms iu case of fire in such manner as the Fire Commissioners
may direct, and in clearing the streets or grounds in the immediate vicinity of the fire so
that the members of the Fire Department shall not be hindered or obstructed in the perform-
ance of their duties. If any policeman refuses or neglects to give an alarm, as directed in
the manner aforesaid, or refuses to obey tlie orders of the chief officer in command at a
fire, he shall forfeit and pay a fine of not less than five nor more than twenty dollars.
Sect. 9. The said Board of Fire Commissioners shall make suitable regulations.
Tinder which the officers and men of the Fire Department shall be required to wear any
appropriate uniform and badge, by which, in case of fire and at other times, the authority
and relations of such officers and men in said department may be known, as the exigency
of their duties may require.
Sect 10. There shall be appointed annually in the month of January, a Joint Com-
mittee of the City Council on the Fire Department, consisting of two members of the
Board of Aldermen and three members of the Common Council. It shall be the duty of
said committee to examine, as often as once in each month, the records and accounts of the
Board of Commissioners on the Fire Department, and also to examine all applications for
appropriations for the said department, and report thereon to the City Council.
Sect. 11. The ordinance in relation to the Fire Department, printed in the revised
ordinances adopted the thirty-first day of December, A.D. 1869, and all the amendments
and additions thereto, are hereby repealed, said appeal to take efifect upon the organization
of the Board of Fire Commissioners as herein designated. All officers and members of
the department at the time of such repeal shall hold their several offices until their succes-
sors are appointed, at the salaries established by the City Council; and, until otherwise
ordered by the Fire Commissioners, shall be subject to the rules and regulations now in
force governing the officers and members of the Fire Alarm and Fire Departments ; and
the present Joint Standing Committee of the City Council on the Fire Department shall
perform the duties provided in Section 10 during the remainder of this municipal year.
/
The committee representing the minority report consisted of Messrs.
James Power and Benjamin Dean. Their objections to a commission were
as follows : —
First. It is unnecessary. We already have something like a commission in the
Board of Engineers. They have such full control of the department that the committee
on the department meets but once a month.
Second. The expense would be inordinate for the duties performed. All the execu-
tive duties of the department would be done by the engineers, leaving no necessity for the
expense of a commission.
Third. The commission, if independent, and of the powers asked for by the majority
of the committee, having the complete control of five hundred voters, and all their
influence, would be a political power, capable of controlling almost any municipal election
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPARTMENT. 295
in the city of Boston. The appointment of a commission, therefore, would not take the
department out of politics.
Fourth. Such a commission, independent, having absolute control of the large
expenditures of the department, would be likely to become corrupt, and we might have a
repetition of the frauds wliich have so recently disgraced New Yorlc. Whatever may
be said of the Committee of the Fire Department, it has never been charged with cor-
ruption.
It required no additional legislation on the part of the State to enable
the City Council to place the department under a paid commission ; therefore
no time was lost in carrying the ordinance into effect, and appointing the fol-
lowing gentlemen to fill that office : Timothy T. Sawyer for three years ; Alfred
p. Rockwell, chairman, for two years ; and David Chamberlin for one year.
These oflicers organized and entered upon their duties November 20. Mr.
Frederick W. Smith was appointed clerk.
Previous to the organization of the Board of Commissioners, the Joint
Standing Committee made the following changes from January 1 to Novem-
ber 1, 1873. Engine-houses built : —
Engine Company No. 12, corner of Winslow and Dudley streets, High-
lands ; this house was built to take the place of the old one, situated on
the corner of Warren and Dudley streets, which was taken down on account
of the widening of Warren street. Engine Company No. 22, Parker street,
Highlands ; this building was for temporary use onl}'. Engine Company
No. 24, corner of Quincy and Warren streets, Highlands. Engine Com-
pany No. 25, Washington square ; for temporary use. A new building was
in course of construction for the accommodation of this engine and Ladder
8. Hose-house No. 4, Northampton street, enlarged so as to accommodate
a steam fire-engine and horse hose-carriage. Hose Company No. 12, corner
of Fourth and O streets. South Boston. Hook and Ladder Company No. 6,
corner of River and Temple streets, Ward 16. The building known as the
" Normal School-house," on Mason street, was remodelled so as to accommo-
date a permanent steam fire-engine company. Engine No. 26 was placed in
this house.
A building for Hook and Ladder Company No. 4, on Dudley street,
Higlilands, was contracted for. Horse hose-carriages were placed in engine-
houses numbered 4, 7, 8, 9, and 25, to run in connection with the engines, in
place of the small hose-tenders formei'ly used. In accordance with the order
of the City Council, horse hose-carriages wei-e placed in all the other engine-
houses as soon as completed. Several of the horse hose-carriages were
remodelled so as to convey the firemen to fires. The apparatus purchased or
contracted for was as follows : —
One steam fire-engine each from Hunneman & Co., Amoskeag Manufact-
uring Company, and Clapp & Jones.
Four horse hose-carriages from Amoskeag Manufacturing Company.
One horse hose-carriage from William Gilchrist.
296 HISTOIiY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPABTMENT.
One hook-and-ladder carriage from Huuuemaa & Co.
Four coal-wagous from Joseph T. Rj^an.
One self-actiug fire-eugiue (Babcock) from New England Fire Extin-
guisher Company.
One steam fire-engine from Amoskeag Manufacturing Company.
One self-acting fire-engine from Hollowa}^, Baltimore.
The following additions were made to the working force of the depart-
ment : —
Engine companies numbered 4 and 7 were reorganized by the appoint-
ment of the foremen and hosemen for constant service, making twelve per-
manent members in each company.
Hose Company No. 1 was changed to an engine company (No. 25), and
twelve members appointed for constant service, making an addition to the
department of five men.
Hose Company No. 4 was reorganized and made an engine compan}'^
(No. 23), on Northampton street, making an addition of two men to the
department.
A new hook-and-ladder company, located on Washington square, and
known as No. 8, was organized with fifteen permanent men.
A new hose company was organized in South Boston, and known as
No. 12, thei-eby adding to the department nine men. Also two new engine
companies in the Highland district, and known as Engine Company No. 22, on
Parker street, and Engine Company No. 24, on Warren street, thus giving to
the department twenty-two additional men ; making a total of fifty-three
men added to the service during the year. The company in Parker street was
added in response to petitions from citizens of Wards 6 and 9, to cover the
recently occupied lands in those wards.
The task of reorganization imposed upon the Board of Fire Commis-
sioners was one of great importance ; the changes had to be made without in
the least diminishing the efficiency of the force then existing. The annexa-
tion of Charlestown, West Roxbury, and Brighton, on January 5, 1874, com-
plicated the problem, and materially increased their labors. Under the
new organization the officers wei'e held to a strict responsibility for their
companies. The men were drilled and disciplined in such a way as to secure
the greatest efficiency practicable, and all who should have public property in
charge were held to a personal accountability for its proper care. All the
companies within the city proper — consisting of Engine Companies Nos. 1,
3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10, 23, and 25 ; Ladder Companies Nos. 1, 3, and 8 ; Chemical
No. 1 ; and fire-boat — were placed on a permanent basis, while the others
consisted of call-companies. The actual force on April 30, 1874, was seven
hundred and twelve men, consisting of one chief engineer and eleven assistant
engineers, permanently employed, and two assistant engineers on call-duty.
The permanent engine companies consisted of a foreman, assistant foreman,
enginemau, assistant engineman, and eight hosemen ; ladder companies : fore-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 297
mau, assistant foreman, And twelve ladder-men ; chemical engine : driver,
chemical engiueman, and one hoseman ; fire-boat : captain, mate, engineer,
assistant engineer, steward, stoker, and one deck-hand ; call-engine com-
panies : engineman, assistant engineman, and driver of engine, permanent
(and when separate hose-carriages were used, the foreman was permanently
employed, and drove the hose-carriage) foreman, and seven hosemen on call-
duty ; ladder companies : the drivers only were permanent, the foreman,
assistant foreman, and seventeen ladder-men did duty only at fires.
The number of alarms from January to October, 1873, w^as three hun-
dred and twenty-seven, and one hundred and ninety-eight still, making a
total of five hundred and twenty-five. The loss to buildings and stock w^as
$2,548,346.24; insurance, $1,920,394.67. The first large conflagration of
the year broke out on January 8 at 52 Wareham street, occupied as a furni-
ture factory ; loss, $10,000 ; insured. This was soon followed b}' one of the
most disastrous fires, from the extent of the loss of life, that had occurred
for years. This fire was discovered at 10.06 o'clock on the morning of
February 27, in the mattress factory of Mr. G. A. Sammett, located at the
corner of Hanover and Blackstone streets. While at work at this fire, the
front wall fell, thereby killing Messrs. Brown P. Stowell and James Starks
of Engine Company No. 15, and John Prince, Jr., substitute, of Engine
Company No. 11, and wounding the following members quite severely: A.
C. Scott, T. Merritt, Charles Ingersoll, and S. Stone of Hose Company No.
2 ; G. Le Cain and W. B. Marshall of Hose Company No. 4 ; H. Demary of
Engine No. 11 ; O. L. Woods and C. H. Smith of Engine No. 15 ; while E.
Martin of Hose No. 4, W. Baker of Engine No. 11, M. W. Hayes, substi-
tute, of Engine No. 15, S. D. Harrington of Engine No. 3, and M. A.
Packard of Insurance Brigade were slightly injured. Misses Lizzie J.
Hanks and Mary Babb, who were employed by Mr. Sammett, were burned
to death, and Miss Mary Ellen Moore was severely injured by jumping from
the window. The loss to property was $36,197 ; insurance. $33,197.
Three alarms were sounded April 12 for a fire in a block of brick buildings
on Wareham street, occupied as wood-working shops ; loss, $43,077 ; insurance,
$38,372. A general alarm was rung in, May 3, at midnight, for a fire in a
block of wooden buUdings at the corner of Causeway and Portland streets,
used for wood-working factories ; loss, $42,232 ; insurance, $18,132.
A fire second to the great conflagration of the year previous broke out on
the morning of May 30, in the furniture factory of Haley, Morse, & Co., 411
Washington street. Before the alarm was given the fire had made terrible
progress, and when the department arrived it was apparent to all that the
scenes of the great fire were to be in the main enacted. Panic and fear
seized all who dwelt in the vicinity. Building after building and block
after block of immense granite and brick structures were levelled by the
I'elentless flames, until the buildings situated on Washington, Essex, and
Boj'lston streets, Fayette and Bumstead courts, and Brimmer place were
298 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
ingulfed in a seething mass of fire. Besides ttie many large warehouses
destroyed, the Globe Theatre, owned by Arthur Cheney, was burned, the loss
being $237,000. The total loss at the fire was over $1,000,000, most of
which was covered by insurance. This loss was shared by over one hundred
and five business firms.
July 4, Engine Company No. 1 1 was called to extinguish a bonfire near
a stable on Everett street. East Boston, which had been built by a mob, who
assaulted the members of the company when trying to extinguish the same.
On the 30th, a block of brick buildings located on Lewis street. East Boston,
was destroj'^ed. Three alarms were given for this fire; loss, $533,933.75;
fully insured. Four alarms were given for a fire m the cordage factory of
Sewall, Day, & Co., on Parker street, August 11 ; loss, $30,000; insurance,
$15,575. Eighty-six horses were burnt to death October 11, at a fire at the
corner of Berkeley and Appleton streets ; loss, $51,000 ; insurance, $11,850.
On the 29th, the granite buildings Nos. 213 to 219 State street, known as
State-street block, were burned; loss, $51,000; insurance, $25,520. The
same day the Court-House in Court square was damaged to the extent of $500
from a fire caught from a defective chimney in the judges' lobby in the Su-
preme Court. Monday, November 3, the brick buildings 41 and 42 Central
wharf were burned; loss, $109,000; insurance, $71,452. At a fire at 17
Tileston street, December 23, a little girl was suffocated. Russell White,
driver of Engine No. 4, was thrown from the apparatus while responding to a
false alarm from Box 5, on the 25th, and severely injured.
On April 7, 1874, Chief Engineer Damrell was succeeded by Assistant
Engineer William A. Green, and the number of assistant engineevs was
increased to thirteen, by an amendment of the ordinance on April 1. The city
was divided into ten fire-districts, and the following gentlemen appointed in
command : Joseph Dunbar, District No. 1 ; John Bartlett, No. 2 ; William
H. Cunningham, No. 3 ; Samuel Abbott, Jr., No. 4 ; John W. Regan, No. 5 ;
George Brown, No. 6 ; George C. Fernald, No. 7 ; John CoUigan, No. 8 ;
James Monroe, No. 9; J. Foster Hewins, No. 10; and Brown S. Flanders,
inspector and aid to the chief. Assistant engineers in Districts 8 and 10
were aided by call-engineers, — the former by Charles A. Holbrook, and the
latter by James F. Rogers ; Henry W. Longley, Chai'les R. Classen, and B.
F. Underhill, Jr., were appointed clerks to the board. By the annexation of
Charlestown, West Roxbury, and Brighton, the following pieces of apparatus
were added to the department: Charlestown, Steam-engine No. 1, Elm
street, built by Amoskeag Manufacturing Company; Hose-carriages No. 1,
Main street; No. 2, Main street; No. 3, Winthrop street; No. 4, Bunker
Hill street ; Ladder No. 1, Main street. West Roxbury : Steam-engine No.
1, Centre street, Jamaica Plain, built by Hunneman & Co., January 1,
1871 ; No. 2, Centre street, Jamaica Plain, built by the same company,
June 25, 1872 ; Hand-engine No. 2, Centre street, Jamaica Plain, built by the
same firm in 1859, and No. 3, corner of Shawmut avenue and Poplar streets,
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 299
built during 185G ; Ladder No. 1, Ceatre street, iu house witii engine, built
by Hunneman & Co., December 21, 1870. Brighton: Steam-engine No. 1,
Chestnut Hill avenue, built by Hunneman & Co., and Ladder 1, in the same
house, built by the same firm. The fire-alarm system was connected with
tliese districts, except iu Brighton, which, on account of the large expense
the construction would incur, a telegraph line was run to the engine-house
in that district, and a double connection with the City Hall established.
Engine No. 26 was put in service during the year, in a house on Mason
street. Other apparatus added were : Ladder No. 1 1 and Engine 29, at Chest-
nut Hill avenue, Brighton, January ; Chemical-engines No. 2 on Church street,
April 25 ; No, 3 on Longwood avenue, July 27 ; and No. 5 at Walnut park,
November 21. One Skinner extension-ladder was also purchased. Engines
Nos. 4, 9, 25, and 26 were ordered never to be sent out of the city, and No.
5 never to cross the ferry unless especially sent for. The custom of receiving
and entertaining visiting firemen by members of a company, or visiting other
fire departments as a company, was forbidden April 17.
On the 29th, the board adopted a style of uniform to be worn by the
members of the permanent department. The coat for the chief was a double-
breasted, close-fitting sack-coat, of dark-blue cloth, cut to button close to the
neck, with rolling collar ; to have eight medium-size department-buttons of
white metal on each breast, grouped in pairs. The length of the coat to be
in proportion to the height of the man, — for a man six feet, twenty-nine
inches. For assistant engineer, same as chief, except the buttons on the
breast were placed equidistant. For company officers, the same, except that the
coat was single-breasted, with eight buttons. For members, same as company
officers, except that the coat had six instead of eight buttons. For summer
wear, the coat was to be made of dark-blue flannel, without lining. The pants of
the same material, to fit loose around the thighs and legs. Vest for the chief,
single-breasted, with standing collar, to button close to the neck with eight
small department-buttons. Assistant engineers were to wear the same pattern,
except that the buttons were to be placed equidistant, while those of the
members were made without a collar. The overcoat of the chief was a
double-breasted frock, with rolling collar, of dark-blue cloth, in length to reach
two inches below the knee, to button close up to the neck with single large
buttons, grouped in pairs ; three on each skirt behind, and three small size on
each cuff ; the skirt to be closed behind. One large outside pocket on skirt,
and a small one on the left Breast, to be covered with lapels, and one inside
pocket on the right breast. Assistants were to have the same, except that
there were but seven buttons, placed equidistant. Same for members, except
the lining was of blue flannel.
The chief and assistants were allowed to wear a white-linen shirt, with
narrow rolling or standing collar ; other members, a double-breasted blue-
flannel shirt with rolling collar. A small necktie of black silk to be worn by
the engineers ; the officers a black-silk cravat, to pass once around the neck
300 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
and tie with a double bow or a flat knot in front, the ends to extend not more
than six inches from the knot. Gloves, when worn, of white Berlin lisle-
thread or wash-leather. Fire caps : for the chief, a leather cap, entirely
white, with sixteen combs, the front of white patent-leather supported by a
gilt eagle-head ; the letters indicating his office were black on a white ground,
over which the insignia, to show on black ground, and under all the word
" Boston." Assistants, same as chief, except that there were twelve combs,
the rim and cape black on both sides, and the letters white on a red ground,
as also the insignia ; the initials of the wearer's name were to be placed.
Company officers, a black-leather cap with eight combs ; a white patent-
leather front, the number of the company, in plain block figures, cut out of
the centre ; insignia of office, same as on coat collar, above the .figure, and
the number of the corporation badge below ; the number of company,
insignia of office, and number of badge were black patent-leather. For
members of engine companies, same as above, except that the front was
black with white figures. For officers of ladder companies, same as for
engine companies, except that the number and insignia was in red, and the
upper half of the skull painted red. For members of ladder companies,
same as above, except that the front was black instead of white. Fatigue
cap : chief, of blue cloth, same as the uniform coat, of the United States Navy
pattern, with a plain patent-leather visor, one small button on each side ;
insignia of office same as on collar, placed in the. centre of the front.
Assistants, same as chief, except the insignia. Foremen, same as above,
except the insignia and the number of the company in block figures one-half
inch long, embroidered in silver upon a circle of light- blue cloth. Assistant
foremen, the same, only the change \n insignia. For members, the same,
except the device, which was of white metal. In stormy weather a cover of
oiled skin, so constructed that the device would remain in view, was worn
over these caps. The insignia of office consisted of the following : For
chief, a six-pointed gilt star, measuring one and a quarter inches in diameter,
to be worn upon the front corners of the collar of the uniform coat. Assist-
ants, the same as above, except that the star was silver, one inch in diameter.
Foremen, a five-pointed silver star as above ; assistant foremen, two five-
pointed silver stars joined, measuring three-fourths of an inch (each) in
diameter.
May 1, the pay of the members of the department was fixed as follows :
Chief, $3,300 ; superintendent of fire alarms, $2,500 ; assistant engineers,
$1,600. Permanent force: foremen, $1,250; assistants, $1,100; engine-
men, $1,200 ; assistant engine-men, $1,100 ; hosemen and ladder-men, $1,100 ;
chemical engineers, $1,100. Fire-boat: captain, $1,368.75 ; mate, $1,186.25 ;
engineer, $1,368.75 ; assistant, $1,186.25 ; other hands, $1,000. Call-force:
permanent foremen, $1,000; call-foremen, $300; hosemen and ladder-men,
$225 each per annum.
May 13, the board forbid the granting of leaves of absence on legal
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIEE DEPARTMENT. 301
holidays. On July 2 an order was passed that on the 3d, 4th, and 5th
of the month ensuing, two men from each company were to be detailed for
street patrol, while call-members were requested to be within the district to
which they belonged ; those who reported at the houses of their respective
companies at 9 o'clock P.M. on the 3d, and remained at or near the same
during the day, were entitled to an additional compensation of $1.50.
The same day it was ordered that straw hats should be worn by members
from June 15 to September 15 ; also that white cotton or linen shirts, instead
of those of flannel, should be worn, but on all occasions of ceremony the blue-
flannel shirt should be substituted. Permission was also given to make
arrangements to attend church service during Sunday, provided it did not
interfere with the necessary work of the day. Tiie cap-device worn by
members was ordered, September 12, to consist of a Greek cross of white
metal, with a circular shield-, marked with the number of the wearer. (See
stamp on cover of this book.) It was to be attached to the centre of the
froijit of the cap.
The call- members attached to Engine Company No. 28 and Ladder Com-
pany No. 10, of West Roxbury district, reported, through their foreman,
that they should resign and do no duty after 12 o'clock, Friday, P.M.,
November 20, on account of the smallness of their compensation. The
commissioners, therefore, assigned Assistant Foreman E. A. Whitehead of
Engine No. 6, and Hosemen C. IngersoU of Engine No. 7, T. L. Whalen
of Engine No. 8, and C. N. Allison of Engine No. 26, to take charge of the
deserted engine, in connection with the permanent men of the company ; while
Assistant Foreman E. B. Smith of Ladder No. 8, and Hosemen B. H.
Bayley of Engine No. 4, C. A. Smith of Engine No. 25, and T. C. Soes-
man of Engine No. 3 were detailed to take charge of Ladder No. 10, in
connection with the pei'mauent men attached. Chemical Engine No. 5, under
the chai-ge of H. D. Phillip of Cliemical No. 1, and W. H. Gay of Chemical
No. 5, was placed in the house of this company.
Smoking on the streets by members was forbidden, December 1, as was
riding on the apparatus when returning from fires. Horses were ordered, on
the 11th, to be exercised for two liours daily, except on those days when they
were called out upon an alarm of fire. In exercising they were not to be
taken beyond a radius of one-eighth of a mile from their respective houses.
In the event of the bursting of any street water-pipe, the superintendent of
tlie eastern division of the Boston Water Works was authorized to require
the temporary service of a steam fire-engine. A physical examination was
required to be passed by all applicants for the position of firemen, which
examination was made by Dr. S. A. Green, city physician. Ex-Chief
Damrell was presented with a silver service, valued at $3,000, at a public
meeting at Tremont Temple on April 28, the presentation speech being made
by ex-Mayor the Hon. William Gaston. Speeches were also made by several
prominent citizens. Ex-Chief Engineer John Stanhope Damrell is a native
302 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
of Boston, having been bora at the North End, on June 29, 1828. He was
left an orphan at the age of seven years, and found hhnself dependent upon
his own energies for the means of subsistence. Having neither money nor
influential friends, his self-reliant nature was at once called into action, and as
quickly asserted itself. Experience soon taught him that to succeed he must
do whatever he undertook with thoroughness, alacrity, and intelligence ;
that he must be master of, or master in, whatever calling he might choose.
This showed him the necessity of an education, and by the most diligent
industry and the strictest economy he was able to save enough for support
while attending the grammar school, from which he graduated at the age of
fourteen years.
He then eutei'ed upon an apprenticeship with a carpenter, in which he
continued four years, when he was engaged as a journeyman, with full wages,
and for eight years he was engaged as workman or foreman. In 1856 he
went into business for himself as master-builder, achieving remai'kable suc-
cess and a competent fortune. In 1877 he received the appointment of
Inspector of Buildings of the City of Boston, from Hon. F. O. Prince, who
was then Mayor, and has held that important office ever since.
Early in life Captain Damrell developed a taste for fire duty. He first
joined Hero PLugine Company No. 6, located on Derne street, and upon the
disbandment of that company entered the ranks of the City Hose Company.
Subsequently' he allied himself with Cataract Engine Company No. 4, and in
it he held every office in the gift of his comrades. As company commander
he Avas popular throughout the whole department, particularly with his own
company, which, on July 4, 1856, presented him with a solid-silver trumpet.
Resigning his position as foreman in 1867, he was elected a member of the
Common Council from Ward 6, and in that body was active and useful.
During his term of office as foreman of the Cataract company, the com-
mittee of the City Council to nominate a chief engineer unanimously tendered
to him that oflftce, which he declined. He was subsequently chosen assistant
engineer of the fire department, to which position he was reelected for ten
consecutive years, when he was called to the office of chief engineer. The
election which led to this result was one of the most exciting local struggles
in the history of the department, or that ever occupied the attention of the
City Council. His competitor was Assistant Engineer Chamberlain, for the
nomination of whom a petition was presented to the Committee on Nomina-
tions ; and this, together with the influence of political friends, had the desired
effect, — thirteen of the fifteen members of the committee giving their support
to Mr. Chamberlain. But, upon tlie thirty-seventh ballot on the part of the
Board of Aldermen, Captain Damrell was declared elected, and he was
reelected for eight consecutive terms. Captain Damrell has been presented
with a number of valuable gifts from the members of the department and
friends. The City Council gave him a solid-silver trumpet January 4, 1869.
The number of alarms from November, 1873, to April, 1874, was three
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 303
huudred and eighty-six, including one hundred and thirty-seven still ; loss to
property, $1,074,091.26; insurance, $1,698,021.10. The first fire of impor-
tance occurred January 4 in the Clarendon-street Baptist Church, situated at
the corner of Clarendon and Montgomery streets ; loss, $34,674 ; insurance,
$75,500. This fire was followed, two days later, by the destruction of a
brick building at the corner of Green and Chardon streets. Mr. Joseph
Hodet of Ladder No. 1, and J. A. Fynes of Babcock No. 1, were burned
about the face, and Mr. Charles Neyersohn, a citizen, died from the effects
of an explosion of a carboy of sulphuric acid, while assisting the chemical-
engine company up the stairs with their pipe. Loss to property, $200. On
the 13th, the five-story brick building, Nos. 70 to 74 Sudbury street, was
destroyed; loss, $126,000; insured. On the 22d, a fire at the corner of
Franklin and Federal streets. Loss, $1,577. A. H. Towne, driver of Engine
No. 10, was thrown from his seat while going to this fire and badly injured.
Fire broke out in the brick building at the corner of Franklin and Con-
gress streets, February 3 ; loss, $32,000 ; insured. On the 4th, the Eastern
Railroad wharf at East Boston was consumed ; loss, $24,800 ; no insurance.
Four alarms were sounded for this fire. On the 11th, while on the way to a
fire in the building 31 and 33 Plympton street, Hose-carriage No. 25 collided
with Engine No. 7, whereby W. H. Hill, substitute on Engine Company No.
25, was thrown on the curbstone and instantly killed. Henry S. Worrall of
the same company was injured in the foot and ankle in such a manner that
amputation was necessary. Charles Dunton and Albert L. Pearson of the
same company were also injured by the collision. Loss to property, $51,800 ;
insurance, $42,000. Hardly had the department returned from this fire,
when they were called to another of equal proportion at the coi-ner of Com-
mercial and South Market streets, where James C. Singleton of Engine Com-
pany No. 10 was severely injured on the leg by the falling walls. Loss to prop-
erty, $10,000 ; insured. The Charlestown State Prison was destroyed on the
21st ; loss, $242,661 ; insurance, $88,810. On the 28th, the wooden building
at the corner of Meridian and Central squares, East Boston, was burned.
Three alarms were sounded ; loss, $4,450 ; insured. A man was arrested for
setting this fire. At a fire at 5 Exeter place, July 1, Assistant Engineer B.
S. Flanders, and William Brown, hoseman of Engine No. 26, were badly
burned. Loss, $6,000 ; insured. Engines were sent from this city July 24
to assist at a fire in Hudson, Mass. Mrs. Harrington was burnt to death by
her clothes taking fire in a building at 4 Newton court, August 4. A general
alarm was given the next day for the burning of the South Boston car stables,
Broadway and Fourth streets. South Boston ; loss, $46,304 ; insured. Francis
P. Mahan of Ladder 8 had his foot badly cut while at a fire at 8 and 10 Pitts
street, on the 25th. Loss, $22,772.64 ; fully insured. On the 27th, Hoseman
L. L. La Pierre, of Engine 26, while driving the hose-carriage to a fire on First
street and Dorchester avenue, South Boston, was thrown from the seat and
seriously injured. Patrick Lyden, a citizen, was burned to death at this
304 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
fire. Loss, $7,746 ; insured. Three alarms were given for a fire in a large
wooden building on Weeks' wharf, Sumner street, East Boston, on October
9 ; loss, $8,894 ; insured.
The conflagration to which the department was called at 10.55 P.M.,
Monday, December 14, was one ever to be remembered by them. On this
date nine large wooden and brick buildings on Plympton, Wareham, and
Albany streets, occupied as wood-working factories by twenty-nine firms, were
destroyed. The night was one of extreme coldness, and every member suf-
fered more or less from frost-bites, while some were severely frozen. Six
alarms were sounded for this fire; loss, $391,100; insurance, $272,200.
While this fire was raging, another of equal fury burst out at 5.50 A.M., the
15th, at Hittinger's wharf ; five alarms were sounded for this, and assistance
called from Somerville and Cambridge ; loss, $137,075 ; insurance, $82,000.
On the 18th, a block of two and one-half story brick buildings on Lawrence
street was partly destroyed ; loss, $4,295 ; insured.
^Iavok TIakt, 1)<)\hi) ui' Fiui; Com missioxi'.hs, and Ciiiki' or Diu'ahtmknt. — Payo 30G.
HISTOBY OF BOSTON FIBE BEPABTMENT. 307
CHAPTEE II.
1875-1880.
DURING the year 1875 the care of the houses in the department devolved
on the commissioners , tliey having previously been looked after by the
department of public buildings. On assuming the control of these structures,
the board took advantage of the labor of the mechanics in the fire depart-
ment who were detailed to do any work necessary when not interfering with
the effective force. These members were required to work ten hours per day,
reporting to the officer of the house to which they were assigned, who was to
make a record of the time they were employed and the kind of work they did,
also the time of their return to their own company. The detailed man was re-
lieved from patrol duty and all other service except that of answering alarms
with his own company at fires. If, however, the place of his employment w|is
more than one mile distant from the fire, he was not to leave his work unless a
second alarm sounded. He was also permitted to sleep at home, but must be
within the sound of the alarm and within one mile of his quarters.
A I'epair-shop, in which all necessary repairs to apparatus, etc., could be
done under the supervision of the department, was established in the building
used by Ladder Company No. 3 on Harrison avenue, in which a plant was
placed costing $6,241.45, although the City Council had appropriated $9,000
for this purpose. A hose and harness repair-shop was also established during
September in unoccupied rooms of the new house of Ladder Company No. 8
on Washington square. Chemical Engine No. 4 was organized January 20
and placed at Washington street, Roslindale. Four light pungs, one two-
wheel hose-carriage, two Concord wagons, were purchased, and eighteen pungs
were fitted to carry a reel of hose. Steam-heaters were also provided for the
engines. By means of these appliances, steam could be kept in the boilers
of the engines at a pressure of thirty pounds ; but five pounds were found more
practical, as the pressure could be carried up to the working-point by the time
the engine was called into service. All the locks on the fire-alarm boxes
were changed, on account of the keys being held by irresponsible people and
frequent false alarms sounded. More caution was afterwards used in their
distribution.
January 29, call-engineers were authorized to exercise a general supervision
over the companies and districts under their command. All communications
from the companies were to pass, both to and from headquarters, to them,
after having first passed the hands of the permanent engineer. Their services
were required outside of their district only when some part of their com-
308 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
mand was called for. House-patrol was to be maintained day and night
in call-companies where three or more permanent men were employed. Mem-
bers of the call-force were ordered to report at their houses and remain there
twenty minutes, whenever second alarms were sounded from boxes to which
their companies would respond on third alarm. On this date, Hoseman
Joseph M. Gargan, acting as driver of the chief's wagon, was authorized as
messenger to that official. His fire- hat had the combs painted white, and at
night he carried the red lantern of the chief.
On May 29, the fatigue-cap and insignia of office of the chief and his
assistants were modified as follows : In place of the cap a black-felt hat was
in order ; that of the chief had a black-and-gold cord, with gold acorns in
the centre of the front. One and three-quarter inches above the rim was worn
the insignia of office, which was the letter E, five-eighths inch long, sur-
rounded by a wreath embroidered in gold. These were also worn on the front
corner of the collar of the uniform coat. Those of the assistant engineers
were the same, except that they were embroidered in silver. The daily roll
of the permanent companies was ordered to be called at 10 o'clock A.M.,
when every member should appear in uniform.
June 5, a revised running-card was issued, and printed on a large card.
Leave of absence was strictly forbidden on the sixteenth, seventeenth, and
eighteenth days of June. Members of the call-force who reported for duty
and remained at the house during this period were paid $5, or at that rate for
such proportion of the time as each man was on duty. When an alarm was
sounded, one member from each company in the city proper and Charlestown
was ordered to precede the apparatus and give warning to the crowd and
prevent collision or accident. An extra steamer or chemical engine was
ordered to be placed in the Charlestown district, with a force sufficient to
manage it, to be on duty from 6 o'clock in the evening of the 16th until
6 o'clock in the morning of the 18th. Epizootic appeared among the horses
again this year, and orders were issued October 4 for company commanders
to at once report cases of this disease among their horses.
The pay-roll of members in the West Roxbury district was established as
follows: Permanent foremen, $1,000; call-foremen, $100 and $150; engine-
man, $1,000 ; driver, $720 ; hosemen on steam-engine, $100, chemical
engine, $50, and hand-engine, $25 ; ladder-men, $100. In the Brighton
district, call-foremen $100, and members $50, per year. The Charlestown
engine on Elm street was numbered 27 ; West Roxbury engine on Centre
street. No. 28 ; and the Brighton engine on Chestnut Hill avenue, No. 29.
Hose companies in Charlestown were placed on the roll as follows : No. 1 ,
Main street ; No. 2, Main street; No. 3, Winthrop street; No. 4, Bunker
Hill, coi-ner of Tufts, street. Ladder companies : No. 9, Main street ; No.
10, Centre street, Jamaica Plain; No. 11, Chestnut Hill avenue. Fire Com-
missioner David Chamberliu was reappointed for a term of three years. The
salary of the members of the board was increased to $4,000 per annum.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
309
The number of alarms from May 1, 1874, to April 30, 1875, was seven
hundred and two, — the largest number known in this city. Loss, $1,228,403 ;
insurance, $3,677,008. February 4, three alarms were sounded for the burn-
ing of a large wooden building in the rear of Sherman square and Dorrance
street; loss, $15,000; insurance, $5,000. T. L. Whaleu, hoseman of Engine
8, fell from a ladder and was badly injured. March 3, a large building on
First street, South Boston, was destroyed ; loss, $68,870 ; insurance, $50,500.
On the 18th, buildings Nos. 101 and 103 Friend street were burned; loss,
$34,830; insured. A five-story brick building at 16 to 20 Beverly street
was destroyed April 14 ; the loss, $23,532 ; insurance, $19,500. On Wednes-
day, May 26, at 6.30 P.M., the four and one-half story brick building at
the corner of Washington and La Grange streets was entirely, demolished by
an explosion Avithin the building. Subsequently, a slight fire broke out among
the ruins, but was quickly extinguished. Four citizens were killed and twelve
injured by the explosion.
A two-story building on Kemble street, occupied as a manufactory for
fireworks, was demolished June 16 by an explosion of powder, by which
John H. Kelley, a member of Ladder Company No, 4, and five other citizens,
were killed, and ten badly injured. On the day following, Mrs. Grimes, of 11
Moulton street, Charlestown, was fatally burned by an explosion of a lamp.
A three-story wooden building at 162 to 174 Canal street was badly
burned on the 23d ; loss, $5,000 ; insurance, $6,500. W. S. Orrok of
Ladder 8 and Engineman Travers of Engine 6 were injured by a falling
building. Henry Fay, employed at a stable at 154 Cabot street, which was
destroyed October 2, was burned to death. The Rice School-house, at the
corner of Dartmouth and Appleton streets, was consumed December 20;
loss, $20,000 ; no insurance. On the 25th, eleven horses, in a stable in
Derby place, were burned to death; loss, $4,000; insurance, $1,520.
Mr, Alfred P. Rockwell, chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners,
reappointed for three years from May 1, 1876, resigned October 5, 1876.
Mr. Greeley S^ Curtis was elected to serve out this term. Timothy T.
Sawyer, appointed for one year from May 1, 1876, resigned July 24 of the
same year. Charles H. Allen was appointed on October 5 to serve the unex-
pired term. David Chamberlin was appointed for two years from May 1,
1876, and chairman for one year. Mr. Granville A. Fuller was appointed
call-engineer in District 8, and Mr. Classon resigned his position as assistant
clerk to the engineers.
The building for Engine Company No. 22, on Dartmouth street, was
completed during the year, and the company placed on a permanent basis.
Chemical Engine No. 5 was located in a new house at Egleston square.
No. 6 was placed in service May 21, and stationed at South Harvard street,
Brighton, and No. 7 was put in commission September 21, and lodged in Mt.
Vernon street, West Roxbury, taking the place of the hand-engine in that
district, by which the last company manning one of these old-time machines
310 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
was disbanded. A new ladder-truck for No. 8 was constructed at the repair-
shop and placed in service February 7, while an aerial ladder, built by the
Aerial Ladder Company, was placed in their care. A Bangor extension-
ladder was stored ready for immediate use in the Derne-street house. A
plan was adopted whereby a standard size was fixed upon for all wearing-
parts of the apparatus in the service, so that duplicates were always ready to
take the place of broken parts, rendering a saving in delays otherwise occa-
sioned for making repairs.
January 12, the board discontinued the custom of imposing a fine of
$1 upon members of the call-companies for tardiness or absence in case
of alarm of fire, and allowing the amount of such to be paid into the
companies. Instead of this method, charges were to be preferred against the
delinquent member, and the commissioners imposed a penalty if they thought
proper, the fine thus imposed being deducted from the pay-roll. Any member
becoming too ill for duty was obliged to furnish a substitute, who was to be
paid at the same rate as that received by the regular member. A revision of
the running-card was made November 17. On the 21st, orders were issued
to the assistant engineer for them not to leave their respective districts
except in response to an alarm of fire, or leave of absence from the board or
the chief. Morning reports were to be taken to headquarters from permanent
companies by special messengers, and from call-companies by the police.
A new style in uniforms was ordered by the board December 4. No
change was made in the coat or pants. The vest had the collar removed, so
as not to interfere with the white collar of the shirt. White-linen shirts were
to be worn from June 15 to September 15 by the company officers and mem-
bers ; during the rest of the year the blue-flannel shirt was in order. On the
fire-hats of members of engine companies the letter H was placed over the
figure to distinguish the hose companies, and the letter C, the chemical com-
panies. , The company on the fire-boat was the same as above, except the
captain and mate were to wear, in place of the number of the engine on the
fatigue-caps, the word '' Fire-boat," embroidered with silver under the star.
The number of alarms from May, 1875, to April 30, 1876, was four hun-
dred and eighty-three; loss, $541,272 ; insurance, $3,076,483. At afire in
a wooden building at 55 to 59 Palmer street, February 7, 1876, Hoseman J.
W. Chase of Engine 3 and C. H. Masury of No. 14 were badly injured by
the falling of the roof and upper floor. Loss, $5,873 ; insurance, $5,100.
On the 27th, the Home for Destitute Children, at 780 Harrison avenue, was
damaged to the extent of $4,000 ; insui-ed. John Knights of Engine No. 3
was injured by the falling of the ceiling. The fire-department repair-shop, on
Harrison avenue, corner of Wareham street, was slightly damaged March 6.
April 29, the piano manufactory of W. P. Emerson, on Albany and Wareham
streets, was damaged to the exteutof $15,486 ; insured. Thomas E. Simonds
had his ankle fractured in attempting to take his seat on the engine, while at a
fire on Tremont street, May 12 ; and on the 28th, William Blake of Chemical
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 311
No. 3 was injured by being thrown from the engine while going to a fire on
Tremont street ; on the 24th, the Cummiugs & Carlisle building on Ware-
ham street was destroyed. Loss, $28,000; insured.
At an explosion of gasoline at the Boston & Providence Railroad depot,
August 7, W. A. Gaylord of Chemical No. 2 was badly burned, and John
Ewers of Engine No. 22 was thrown from the hose-carriage and sustained a
fracture of his leg. December 6, William K. Lewis of Chemical Engine No.
4, while driving to a fire on Terrace street, was thrown from his seat and
broke his leg.
January 4, 1877, the board issued an order enjoining the members of
the permanent companies to pay strict attention to their dress. The corpora-
tion badge was to be worn on the centre of the left breast of the coat, in full
view, by all when doing house or street patrol. No part of the uniform was,
to be laid aside until bedtime, except by permission. Members were for-
bidden to appear on the main floor, except in the performance of duty. All
necessary work in and about the house, stable, and apparatus was to be
done before roll-call, except when prevented by unforeseen emergencies.
Februar}' 19, orders forbade any person other than members riding on the
apparatus ; in the permanent force, three men, in addition to the driver, were
allowed to ride on the engine in going to a fire, and six on the hose-carriage ;
but no one, except the engiueman or his assistant, was allowed to remain on
the apparatus when returning to quarters.
After April 2 the horses were to be exercised daily, one hour in tlie morn-
ing, from C! to 7 o'clock, attached to their respective apparatus, and one hour
in the afternoon, led or under the saddle. They were never to go beyond
calling of their quarters. On Sundays and during very bad weather the exer-
cise was to be omitted, if deemed expedient by the officer in charge ; and such
omission entered in their reports and sent to headquarters.
In view of the few working fires attended by the call-companies, they
were, on April 23, ordered, on and after May 1 and until September 1, to
be drilled once in two weeks for a period of one hour. A new running-card
was issued June 1. A ribbon device for officers and men was supplied June
11, to be worn on the straw hat in place of the insignia of metal. During
leave of absence the device on these hats was to be removed, and the hat
worn with citizens' clothes.
The term for which Commissioner Charles H. Allen was appointed
expired May G, 1877, and the vacancy filled on the 25th, by the nomination
of Mr. Henry W. Longley.
The number of alarms sounded from May 1, 1876, to April 30, 1877, was
five hundred and nine; loss, $481,354; insurance, $2,827,528. The first
fatality reported for the year was the burning of Mrs. Angler, at her dwell-
ing in Cushman avenue, January' 13. On the 26th, a workman employed in
the kerosene-oil factory on E street. South Boston, was killed, while a fire
was in progress in the building, and Thomas Wilson, of Ladder No. 5, in-
312 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
jurecl. Loss to property, $36,000 ; insurance, $25,500. The Codman build-
ing, on Hanover street, was destroyed March 15 ; loss, $37,765 ; fully
insured. Monday, June 25, Engines Nos. 6 and 7, and a detail of ladder-
men from Ladders Nos. 1 and 8, under the command of Engineers Abbott
and Flanders, were sent to the assistance of the Marblehead department.
Assistant Engineman George H. Wentwortb was thrown from the carriage
and badly injured, while going to a fire on Suffolk avenue, July 25 ; and
on August 7, John Pendoley of Ladder No. 8, and Thomas W. Strand of
Ladder No. 1, were injured at a fire in Purchase street.
September 12, at a fire in Unity court, J. Kimball, of Chemical No. 1, was
thrown from the driver's seat and severely injured. On the 27th, a large
four-story brick building, at Nos. 9 to 17 Green street and 1 Pitts street,
occupied by seventeen tenants, was burned ; loss, $12,087.04 ; insurance,
$78,689. The same day, at 8.40 P.M., assistance was called for from Provi-
dence, R.L, but was not needed. Monday, October 1, at 9.59 A.M., Milton,
Mass., called for assistance. Engines Nos. 16, 18, 19, 20, and Ladder
Company No. 6, responded. Mr. C. H. Willett, of Engine No. 4, had his
back severely injured by a bale of rags, at a fire on Charlestown street, Novem-
ber 7. On the 17th, Foreman Hussey, of Engine No. 23, was thrown from a
buggy, and severely injured, while going to a fire at 130 Canal street. Mrs.
Mehegan was fatally burned by the explosion of a lamp at her residence, 144
B street. South Boston, December 23.
Commissioner Greeley S. Curtis resigned his office March 25, 1878, and
the former commissioner, Charles H. Allen, was nominated to fill the vacancy,
and confirmed April 1 ensuing. Commissioner Chamberlin was reappointed
on the expiration of his term, May 4, for the ensuing three years. A general
reduction of the compensation of the officers and members was made during
the year ; that of the Board of Commissioners was placed at $3,000 ; chief,
$3,000; superintendent of alarms, $2,300; assistant engineers, $1,500;
captain of fire-boat, $1,250; engineer, $1,200; assistant engineer, $1,100,
per year. Petitions were received during the year from the permanent and
call members of the West Roxbury and Brighton districts, asking to be paid
the same amount as allowed the Dorchester and Roxbury members. The
board then decided to equalize the compensation according to the amount of
duty performed by the call-companies, therefore reduced the pay of the call-
members of Dorchester to $175, and the firemen to $225 ; while that of the
call-members in West Roxbury, attached to the engine and ladder companies,
was increased to $150 ; call-foremen of ladder companies, $200 ; call-members
of chemical companies, $75 ; members in the Brighton district, $75 ; call-
foremen, $125 ; assistant engineers in West Roxbury and Brighton, $1,100 ;
and permanent drivers, $1,000, per annum.
David L. Adamson was appointed a clerk at headquarters during the
year. The second story of Chemical Engine-house No. 4, in Roslindale, used
for primary-school purposes, was vacated, and afterwards fitted up as a resi-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
313
dence for the driver of the chemical engine. Houses Nos. 2, 3, 5, 6, and
7 were built on the same principle, the tenants, of course, paying a rental for
the same to the city. Bangor extension-ladders were supplied to all the
ladder companies, and relief valves were attached to each engine. By this
appliance a gate, or ■■' shut-off," was constructed in the hose-pipe nozale,
which could be closed, thus shutting off the water supply without stopping the
working of the engine ; thereby doing away with the shouting of orders to
stop the passing of water, and saving a large amount of damage occasioned
by water. Two of the reserve engines, " Old 1 " and " Old 7," being unfit
for further service, were broken up. " Old 9 " was also condemned, and
"Old 6" was sold, as was also the old hand-engine at West Roxbury.
Eighteen fuel and three supply wagons, from the factories of Messrs. J. T.
Ryan, Holt & Steadman, A. Dixon, and G. H. Bird, were in the service of
the department at this time. The number of hydrants controlled was two
thousand one hundred and sixty-one Lowry, one thousand five hundred and
ninety Boston, and three hundred and eighty-seven Post ; also two hundred
and thirty-eight reservoirs.
April 29, the line dividing fire districts Nos. 9 and 10 was changed by
the board, so that it continued through Bowdoin and Commercial streets to
Dorchester avenue ; thence due east to the water, thereby including Engine
Company No. 17 and Ladder Company No. 7, in District No. 10. On May 14,
the duty of winding and keeping in correct time the twenty-nine public clocks
throughout the city was assigned to the members of the department, instead
of the men engaged in the fire-alarm service. Arrangements were made, July
19, with the chief engineers of the fire departments of Cambridge, Somerville,
and Brookline to render aid to each department when so requested, by the pres-
entation of a card officially signed by them. A copy is shown herewith : —
Cambridge, 18
ASSISTANCE WANTED.
Chief Engineer.
Engineers and captains of companies were authorized, upon its presentation,
to turn in an alarm from the box nearest the locality calling for it. The
314 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
police commissioners issued similar instructions to tlie officers and patrolmen
of their departments. A new running-card was issued August 22.
The Boston Veteran Firemen's Association was reorganized at the
American House, Boston, April 9, 1878. Any person heretofore connected
with tlie Fire Department of Boston, and suburbs annexed to the city of
Boston, prior to 1873, or having a membersliip in the present Fire Department
of five successive years previous to the time of making his application, was
eligible to membership. The gentlemen who have presided as presidents of
this organization from the above date are as follows : Otis Munroe, April 9,
1878, to November 18, 1880 ; James Quinn, November 18, 1880, to November
1, 1881 ; Hon. John M. Clark, November 1, 1881, to November 14, 1882;
Joseph Lovett, November 14, 1882, to November 21, 1883; Gardner B.
Chapin, November 21, 1883, to 1884; Bailey T. Mills, 1884 to 1885; John
S. Dararell, 1885 to 1886; William H. Cunningham, 1886 to 1887; Robert
(Father) Kemp, 1887 to 1888 ; Charles W. Blake, present incumbent.
The number of alarms from May 1, 1877, to April 30, 1878, was five
hundred and fourteen ; loss, $516,009 ; insurance, $3,803,910. Mr. Frederick
A. W. Gay, a member of Ladder Company No. 3, while responding to an
alarm from 63 East Brookline street, on Saturday, January 5, was caught
between the door-post of the ladder-house and the hub of the wheel of the
ladder-truck, and injured so severely that he died during the evening of the
same day. On the 20th, the granite building at 4 Way street and 284 Har-
rison avenue was badly damaged. Robert Young, a young man residing on
the premises, was smothered. The Odd Fellows' building, on Tremont street,
was slightly damaged on the 23d. The most disastrous conflagration of the
year broke out at 7.31 P.M., on Thursday, the 31st, in the large six-stoi'y
brick building 121 Medford street, Charlestown, occupied by F. M. Holmes
& Co. as a furniture factory. A storm of snow and sleet, driven by a gale
of wind, was raging at the time, which greatly impeded the progress of the
apparatus. A general alarm was sounded, and most nobly did the men
battle with the flames, which threatened at one time to sweep over a consid-
erable territory. As it was, nine buildings were destroyed and thirteen
badly damaged; loss, $214,622; insurance, $157,056. Hoseman Charles
Furlong, of Hose No. 2, had a leg broken by falling walls. Hosemen Owen
TuUy and George Phelps, of the same company, and John Cassidy, of Hose
No. 3, were injured.
February 1 , a third alarm was given by mistake for a fire in a wooden
building at the corner of Dorchester avenue aud Commercial street. The
snow was so deep at the time that several of the engiues were stuck in the
drifts. On the 11th, at 12.15 P.M., a call for assistance was received from
East Cambridge. Engines Nos. 6 and 27, also Hose No. 3, responded,
under command of Engineer Bartlett. A call was also made for assistance
from Somerville, Sunday, Maj' 19, at 3 A.M. Engine No. 27 and Hose
No. 2, under command of Engineer Bartlett, was despatched to the scene.
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 315
T. F. Fitzgerald, engiiieman of Engine No. 15, was thrown from tlie engine
and injured at a fire at Downer's Oil Works, on First street, East Boston, June
21. On August 2, Dennis Kilduff, member of Engine No. 14, was injured by
a falling beam at a fire on Boylston street, Jamaica Plain.
September 8, the spice-mill of H. L. Pierce, on Washington, corner of
Adams street, was burnt; loss, $24,600; insured. The Merchants' Bank
building, 28 State street, was damaged to the extent of $12,000, on the 17th;
insurance, $400. Miss Mary Coughlin was burned to death by the explosion
of a lamp at her residence, 86 Warrentou street, on the 20th. A cotton-
waste factory, 128 to 148 Tudor street, was partially destroyed on October 5 ;
loss, $35,600 ; insurance, $19,750. The Baptist church located at the corner
of Stoughton and Sumner streets. East Boston, was damaged to the extent
of $6,950, October 30 ; insurance, $9,000. The Boston Dye-wood and Chem-
ical Works, at East Boston, was burnt November 9 ; loss, $27,750 ; insurance,
$161,700. Chief Dyke, of Chelsea, responded with Engine Co. No. 1. Hose-
man O. J. Booker, of Engine No. 23, was thrown from the hose-carriage and
badly injured while responding to an alarm at the corner of Albany and
Northampton streets, December 10. On the 28th, the Emerson piano factory
and other buildings were badly damaged ; loss, $75,158 ; fully insured.
Orders were issued by the board, January 11, 1879, whereby permanent
members were allowed short leave of absence of not more than one and one-
half hours' duration at any one time. On April 18, it was ordered that each
permanent company should consist of a captain, one engineman and assistant
engineman, and such number of hosemen, not exceeding eight, including a
" senior," as the board may appoint. The number of laddermen was placed
at nineteen, and the office of assistant foreman was abolished ; those filling
that position were appointed senior hosemen. The order weiit into effect on
the 21st. Orders were given, on September 12, that all the bells, gongs, etc..
connected with the department were to be struck for alarms of fire in every
part of the city.
The house built for Ladder Company No. 4, on Dudley street, near Blue
Hill avenue, was turned over to the Department of Public Buildings, and the
■apparatus returned to its old quarters on Eustis street, the second story of
which building was arranged as a dwelling for the driver. A new engine was
added to the reserve force, and one supply-wagon was purchased,
Mr. John E. Fitzgerald was appointed on the Board of Commissioners,
May, 1879, vice Charles H. Allen. After a painful illness, David Chamber-
lin, then chairman of the board, died at North Adams, on September 4, after
a period of thirty-seven years' connection with this department. The vacancy
on the board occasioned by his death was filled, October 9, by Mr. Edward
A. White.
On November 21, permission was given members of the permanent force
to wear in stormy weather a rubber overcoat, rubber boots, and rubber cap-
covering.
316 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The large fires and serious accidents for 1879 were as follows : January
20, a young child of Mr. Callahan was smothered, and another nearly so, at
a fire in their dwelling, 113 South street,. Five alarms were given for a fire
in the lumber-sheds Nos. 242 and 254 Albany street and 100 Lehigh street,
on March 3; loss, $14,100; insured. Hoseman Chandler Griffin, of Engine
No. 4, was badly injured at a fire in the rear of 22 Beach street, on the 10th,
by falling through a scuttle. The Tremont Temple was destroyed Thursday,
August 14, by fire which originated from some unknown cause in the rear of
the organ. The flames extended to the buildings Nos. 70, 72, 90, 94 Tremont
street and 3 Montgomery place, which were badly damaged. Hosemeu
Cushing, Bartlett, and Kelly, also substitute Pingree, of Engine No. 4, were
badly burned, and Hosemen Bayley and Egerton, of Engine No. 10, were
injured by timber and glass. The most disastrous fire, from the extent of
life lost, broke out at 11.50 P.M., Wednesday, 17th, at 128 Gold street, South
Boston. Fernald Meyroth was killed by jumping from a window ; Miss
Amelia Meyroth, Mrs. George Holderied, Christian Pfieffer and her daughter
Rose, were suffocated, and George Holderied burned to death. October 6,
J. Barcaloupo and Andrew Jainstia were burned, the latter fatally, at their
dw^elling, 28 Ferry street.
The largest conflagration of the year occurred on Sunday evening,
December 28, at 10.58 P.M., in the building Nos. 91 and 93 Federal street,
occupied by Rice, Kendall, & Co. and others. The first, second, and third
alarms were sent in, in quick succession. In the mean time the telegraph
wires had fallen on the wires of the fire-alarm telegraph, cutting off all com-
munication with the central office. When this fact was discovered, a mes-
senger was despatched to the City Hall, and a general alarm ordered. The
delay caused by this accident was a serious detriment to the department in
arresting the flames, and they spread with frightful rapidity to the buildings
Nos. 69, 71, 75, 105, and 107 Federal street, 236, 238, 240, and 250 Devon-
shire street, 106 Franklin street and 202 Devonshire street, also corner of
Franklin and Devonshire streets; loss, $905,393; insurance, $1,963,418.
Laddermen C D. Boardman of Ladder 1, E. B. Smith and Eugene Cum-
mings of Ladder No. 8, J. H. Lafavor of Engine No. 3, and Walter N.
Benton of Ladder 3, were severely injured. At this fire the system of con-
centrating into one stream the water from two or three engines, by the Siamese
connection, was first adopted, when a three-way connection was used with
splendid effect, by Engine No. 3 and engines from Cambridge and Chelsea, on
the Cathedral building.
The number of alarms from May 1, 1878, to April 30, 1879, was five
hundred and sixty-three; loss, $403,451 ; insurance, $3,591,948.
All the houses of the call-companies were provided during 1880 with a
room for the use of the members, where they were obliged to assemble once
a week, between the hours of 7 and 9 o'clock P.M., for the purpose of
reading the rules and general orders of the board. In many of these rooms
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 317
the members, at their own expense, placed billiai'd tables. The commissioners
made arrangements with the patentee of the Speedy swinging-harness to use it
in this department. By the use of this appliance, a saving in the wear and
tear of harness was effected, while the necessity of keeping the horses of the
department constantly harnessed was obviated. The Scott-Uda Aerial Ladder
was lodged in old Engine-house No. 3, on Washington street, near Dover,
and a permanent driver appointed. A hospital for sick horses was also estab-
lished in Hose No. 7's house, on Tremont street, under the charge of Mr.
George F. Stimson, — a member of that company, who was later on appointed
veterinary surgeon to the department. July 30, Hook and Ladder Company
No. 12 was organized, and located in the house with Hose Company No. 7.
A new engine of the Silsby pattern was purchased and put in service Sep-
tember 1, in charge of Engine Company No. 25. One buggy, for the use of
the commissioners, two wagons, and a ladder-truck, for Ladder Company No.
12, were purchased, — the latter from Ryan Bros, of this city. Three ladder-
trucks in the city proper were each provided with a calcium-light apparatus,
which proved very useful.
Inspector Brown S. Flanders was appointed, January 2, Superintendent
of Fire Alarms, vice John F. Kennard. A ball in aid of the Firemen's Relief
Fund was given at Music Hall on the evening of March 31, the sale of tickets
being made by the members of the department. Quite a large sum of money
was realized. These entertainments were renewed each year, by which
several thousand dollars were annually added to the fund of the Relief Asso-
ciation. June 1.8, it was ordered that a substitute serving for a member was
to be paid by him during an absence of only twenty-four hours or less ; for a
longer period the name of the substitute was entered on the pay-roll, and the
amount of said services deducted from the pay of the member for whom he
served.
All leave of absence from officers and permanent members was, after
June 25, decided by the board. Application was made in writing, stating the
reasons for making the request, and sent through the regular channels twenty-
four hours in advance, with the opinion of intermediate officers, approving or
disapproving, with reasons endorsed thereon. AVhen a member found, from
sudden sickness, that he was unable to do duty, or was called away, he was at
once to notify the district engineer of the fact, who could temporarily grant
him the leave of absence required, — the engineer or officer in command em-
ploying a substitute to fill the vacancy.
The Legislature, on March 17, passed the following act, pensioning mem-
bers of the department : —
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and
by the authority of the same, as folloios : —
Section 1. The board of fire commissioners of the city of Boston, by the affirmative
vote of all the members, and with the approval of the mayor, may. retire from office in the
fire department any permanent or call member thereof, wlio has become disabled while in
318 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. .
the actual performance of duty, or any permanent member who has performed faithful ser-
vice in the department for a period of not less than fifteen consecutive years, and place the
member so retired upon a pension roll. No such member shall be placed on the pension roll
unless it shall be certified to the board in writing, by the city physician, that such member
is personally incapacitated, either mentally or physically, from performing his duty as a
member of the department. In case of total permanent disability, caused in or induced by
the actual performance of his duty, the amount of annual pension shall be one-half of the
annual compensation allowed to the permanent men of the grade in which said member
served, or such less sum as the said board may determine. The pension of members of the
permanent force who have served fifteen or more consecutive years shall be an amount
not exceeding one-third the annual salary or compensation of the office from which said
members are retired, or such less sum as the board may determine.
Sect. 2. If any member of the said firs department shall die from injuries received
while in the discharge of his duties, and shall leave a widow, or if no widoM-, any child or
children under the age of sixteen years, a sum not exceeding three hundred dollars may be
paid by way of annuity to such widow so long as she remains unmarried, or to any such
child or children so long as he or they continue under the age of sixteen years, and the
board of fire commissioners may from time to time order such annuity to be reduced.
Sect. 3. For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of the foregoing sections,
the board of fire commissioners may, with the mayor, expend such sums as may be spe-
cially appropriated therefor by the city council, for the relief of widows or children of
members of the fire department who have been killed in the execution of their duty, or
have died from tiie effect of injuries received in the execution of their duty. For the
payment of the pension hereinbefore authorized the board of fire commissioners may draw,
from time to time, upon the city treasurer of Boston, any sum which may be specially
appropriated therefor by the city council.
Sect. 4. The mayor of the city of Boston for the time being (and his successors in
office), the board of fire commissioners of the city of Boston for the time being (and their
successors in office), shall together continue a body corporate for the purpose of receiving
and holding all sums of money, and real and personal estate, not exceeding in the aggregate
two hundred thousand dollars, which may be given, granted, bequeathed, or devised to it
for either members of the Boston Fire Department, or their families, requiring assistance,
or for the benefit of any person, or the families of any person who have been such mem-
bers, requiring assistance. The property so held shall be known as The Boston Fireman's
Relief Fund. The said body corporate shall have authority to manage and dispose of the
same thereof, according to their best discretion, subject to the provision of any and all
trusts which may be created for the purpose aforesaid. Such corporation shall have all the
powers and privileges, and be subject to all the duties, restrictions, and liabilities set forth
in all general laws, which now are or may hereafter be in force relating to similar corpora-
tions.
During the year the corporation was organized, and the chief engineer, as
chairman of the committee of the firemen's ball, placed the sura of $9,000 in
their care, to be used for the purpose aforesaid.
During 1877, Mr. Albert C. Lynn, a member of Ladder Company, No. 9,
started the movement to have call-members enjoy the same privileges in case
of disability, etc., as provided in the above act for the permanent members ;
and after a hard fight the desired result was obtained during 1888, whereby
section one of the act was amended so as to include the call-force, and the
following clause was added : —
HISTOBT OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 319
The pension of members of the call force who have served fifteen or more consecu-
tive years shall be an amount not exceeding one-half the annual salary or compensation
of the offices from which said members are retired, or such less sum as the board may
determine.
District Engineer Samuel Abbott, Jr., resigned his office July 1, to accept
the position of Superintendent of the Protective Department ; his place was
filled by the appointment of William T. Cheswell. An order was issued on
September 23, to the effect that any driver of the department driving over a
line of hose, unless it could not be avoided, should be dismissed. The
quarters occupied by Engine No. 12, on the corner of Dudley and Winslow
streets, were moved to the premises of Ladder Company No. 4, on Dudley street,
near Blue Hill avenue. These houses were both renovated, and adapted to the
use of their companies ; the stalls were changed, enabling the horses to face the
apparatus, and swinging-dodrs provided, so that on the alarm, the latch fasten-
ing the doors being pulled, they quickly opened, allowing the horses to move
rapidly forward in a straight line to the pole of the apparatus. This change
was also made in the houses of Engines Nos. 6, 22, 3, 13, 14, 9, 11, and ]8 ;
also in Ladder Houses 8, 3, 4, and 5. A sliding pole was also placed in
P^ngine House No. 4, connecting the sleeping apartments with the main floor,
by which the members could slide from the upper to the lower stor}?^, thereby
saving the time of going downstairs. These improvements were placed in all
the other houses soon after. Au act was passed by the Legislature April 15,
1880, entitled an " Act relative to the better means of egress from manufac-
turing establishments."
The loss by fire from May 1, 1879, to April 30, 1880, was $1,260,490;
insurance, $4,602,591. Five hundred and seventy-one alarms were given
during this period. A severe conflagration broke out Sunday, February 1, in
the lumber and lime sheds at Nos. 468 to 498 Albany street, by which four
buildings were totally destroyed and one badly damaged ; loss, $32,303 ; in-
surance, $44,500. Laddermen Wilson, Darling, Clapp, and Bennett of Ladder
No. 3, Foreman Riley and Hosemen Chase and Melzard of Engine No. 3, also
Hosemen Whitney and McAllister of Engine No. 15, were severely burnt at
this fire. On the 11th, Hoseman Cummings, substitute of Engine No. 4, was
badly burnt at a fire at 14 to 20 Sudbury street. The da}' following, three
alarms were given for a fire at 146 to 158 Blackstone street. One building
was destroyed and two badly damaged ; loss, $9,325 ; insured. The large
five-story brick and freestone building, Nos. 79 to 81 Milk street, occupied
by the Wright & Potter Printing Company and others, was destroyed Mon-
day, February 23; loss, $37,912; insured. Engineer Colligan was badly
injured in the right eye at a fire in the building Nos. 10 to 20 Elmwood street,
March 17. The " Boston Journal " building was badly destroyed on the 21st ;
loss, $21,656; Insured. A general alarm was given for this fire. Hosemen
Douglass of Engine No. 25, Keyes of Engine No. 4, and Ladderman Wells
of Ladder No. 1, were injured. Several of the inmates of the tenement-
320 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
house Nos. 18 to 28 Travers street had a narrow escape from death, April
19, they being rescued by the firemen iu an exhausted condition. L. F.
Stevens, of Ladder No. 1, was badly injured the same day by falling from
the roof of a shed in the rear of 24 Travers street.
Three alarms were given May 6 for a fire in the five-story granite build-
ing, No. 3 Wiuthrop square, occupied by Whitten, Burdett, & Young and
others; loss, $491,781 ; insurance, $934,000. Captain Knight and Hosemen
Sharkey, and Kilduff, of Engine No. 14, were thrown from a ladder and
badly injured at a fire at the corner of Harrison avenue and Hunneman street,
June 1. Miss Josie Wanders, of 47 Prentiss street, was fatally' burnt by
the explosion of a kerosene-oil oan on the 29th. July 12, J. L. McLaughlin,
of Engine No. 4, was thrown from the hose-carriage and broke his leg while
responding to a fire at 70 Beverly street. On the 20th, Hoseman M. B.
Reardon, of Engine No. 25, broke his leg by falling through a scuttle, and
Captain Griffin, of Ladder No. 8, severely injured his leg by falling through a
hole in the floor while at a fire at 36 Central wharf. The lumber-sheds of
W. H. Leatherbee, of 268 Albany street, were destroyed on the 22d ; loss,
$11,873 ; insured. The day following, Mr. John Murphy, a citizen, was run
over and killed by Engine No. 4, on North Benuet street, while going to a
fire on the same street. Two alarms were given for a fire at 42 and 44
Summer street, in a five-story building occupied by several tenants ; loss,
$122,643 ; insured. On the same day the building occupied as a carriage
warehouse by Sargent & Haram and others, at 26 to 30 Bowker street, was
destroyed ; loss, $16,963 ; insured. Hoseman W. M. Pierce, of Engine No. 8,
was badly cut with glass at a fire at 4 Park street, September 17; loss to
property, $6,727 ; insured. On the same day, at a fire at 412 Albany street,
Hosemen Tobey, Kelley, and Enwright, of Engine No. 25, were injured by fall-
ing debris; loss to property, $31,900; insured. The department was called
out, October 11, to extinguish a fire in a large quantity of coal at 588 Albany
street, which had been burning three weeks. Captain Abbott and Laddermen
Alexander, Poland, and Cummings, of Ladder No. 3, rescued Katie Williams
and Mary Lehan from a burning building at 18 Seneca street, November 13.
The attention of the City Council being called to the large water-tax
charged by the water department for each hydrant and reservoir located in
the city, viz., $30 per hydrant and reservoir, this tax increasing from
$59,730 in 1872 to $128,940 in 1880, — an amount altogether out of propor-
tion to the cost of water used or the price paid by private citizens, — a special
committee was. appointed by the City Council during 1881 to look into the
matter, which resulted in a reduction of $10 per hydrant and reservoir; but
even this amount was considered insufficient, as the board contended that if
the rate was fixed the same as for private citizens, — two cents per hundred
gallons, — $3,000 would more than suflSce to pay the total cost.
lUSTOET OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 321
CHAPTEK III.
1881-1888.
THE Commissioners' report for 1881 contained the following state-
ment : —
The building laws in operation for the past eight years, and the appointment of com-
petent inspectors to enforce the same, are a great improvement on former systems, over
what might be termed the " build-as-you-please " style of combustible architecture.
By this method many blocks of houses in the dwelling localities of the city have been
construQted, and in such a manner as to insure communication by fire from one dwelling to
another in the shortest space of time. If the architects and builders who constructed these
blocks designedly erected them for the purpose of rapid destruction by fire, they could not
have succeeded better ; for while they have provided hollow spaces behind furrings and
floors, and under roofs, by which fire can travel from basement to attic, and thence by the
concealed spaces in the roof, from house to house in a block, they have admirably pro-
tected the fire from the water of the steam-engine. And this style of building is by no
means confined to the poorer or middling classes of houses in the citj'. It is to be found
in Beacon street equally with the wooden blocks in East or South Boston.
Since the great fire in 1872 all the buildings in the burnt district have been built, and
although they have not all the defects mentioned, they have others that are equally dis-
astrous in case of fire, and which are beyond the reach of building laws, but which men
and architects can remedy, if they will, at a very little cost. The bulk of our fire loss is
in the business section of the city, and is occasioned by defects in the internal construction
of the buildings, by which fire and smoke can communicate from the first to the sixth
story through every floor, and occasion a loss of hundreds of thousands on the contents,
though the loss on the building itself may be very small. In many large buildings in the
" burnt district " there are as many kinds of business carried on as there are stories in the
building, each story being under the control of a different occupant. These floors, instead
of being separated from each other as much as possible, are usually connected by elevator
shafts without automatic hatches or other appliances to cut off communication, by wooden
stairways, and glass doors and Avindows at the head of each stairway, — all excellent con-
ductors of flame and smoke, and calculated to produce the largest amount of loss in case of
fire. A little additional expense, the use of a little more sheet-tin around elevators and
doors, — the expense a mere trifle, — would save thousands yearly in this city and State.
The estimated losses by fire in the whole State during the past year aggregate $4,454,221, and
one-quarter of the above loss occurred in this city. In no other part of the civilized world
is so much of the capital of the country destroyed through fire as in the United States, the
amount averaging each year $75,000,000 ; and all this, notwithstanding the fact that in no
countries are its large cities so well supplied with fire apparatus, men, and water-hydrants
to fight fire as in the United States. If Boston, New York, or Chicago had only the
facilities which the large cities of London or Paris have to combat fire, the loss here would
be enormous. The difference in loss is due to the methods of building in vogue here and
in European cities ; carelessness in construction, carelessness in the supervision of goods
stored in buildings, and over-insurances, are the fruitful seeds of large conflagrations.
322 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Of the whole number of fires during the year in this State 40 per cent, are reported as
incendiary or unknown. This city during tlie past year has been visited by many serious in-
cendiary fires, especially in lumber-yards, and all efforts to detect the perpetrators have thus
far proved unavailing. Many of these fires have been discovered in season, and before much
damage was done, the places selected being stores in the " burnt district." Broken panes
in basement windows in our large warehouses afford ample facilities for the incendiary to
perform his work ; and owners and occupants should see that their basement windows are
in good condition, especially during the night. If every fire in this city could be investi-
gated by some person authorized to act, and empowered to send for persons and papers,
and take evidence in the nature of a fire inquest when necessary ; if the result of these
inquests were published, and the origin, cause, and course of each fire given to the public,
the official exposure of those faulty methods of construction Avhich make fires so dis-
astrous, would bring about a reform in the building of warehouses, dwellings, etc., in the
city, more effectually than even the building laws, because it would tend to remedy, through
public opinion, that which the building laws could not reach. Last year the City Council
petitioned for authority to create the office of Fire Marshal, whose duty it should be to
investigate the origin of all fires in this city ; but the act failed, principally because of a
disagreement between the representatives of the insurance companies and the city as to
how this officer should be paid, — whether by the city or the insurance companies. A more
expeditious method than the roundabout way now prescribed by statute for a fire inquest is
necessary.
Commissioner Edward A. White was reappointed on tlie board for a term
of three years. By order of the board one hose man or ladderman of each
company was designated assistant foreman, without additional compensation.
On March 28, instructions were given the members to report immediately for
duty on the floor after the first stroke of the alarm ; the horses were to be
hitched up, and the company prepared to leave quarters upon the word " Go I "
to be given by the officer in command, at the instant he is assured that the
company, under the rule, is obliged to respond to the box indicated. If the
company was not to respond to that alarm, but obliged to do so on the alarm
next succeeding, the horses were to remain hitched twenty minutes. On inspec-
tion by the board it was found that eleven and a half seconds was the length
of time required from the time of ringing the alarm until the company was
ready to go, even when all the men, except the patrol, were in bed. The
uniform coat of the officers and crew of the fire-boat was ordered, December
12, to be of the pattern described as " reefer," and the assistant engineers
were to wear a turn-down white collar instead of a standing one. Ladder-
house No. 17 had its position changed, during the year, to a site adjoining the
house of Engine 17.
Alarms from May 1, 1880, to April 30, 1881, aggregated seven hundred
and thirty-one; loss, $1,183,818 ; insurance, $6,543,006. The first accident
which occurred during the year was received by Mr. George LeCain, of Engine
23, he being badly ruptured by lifting a pung while at company quarters.
Wednesday, February 2, Mrs. Hanlan, aged seventy, and her son, aged thirty
years, perished in the flames at a fire in a building on Commercial street.
Engineer Hewins and several members of the department were severely frost-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 323
bitten. A number of wooden tenement-bouses, Nos. 159 to 177 Chelsea
street, East Boston, were badly damaged, on the 3d ; loss, $6,954 ; building
insured, but contents were not. A fire broke out Tuesday, 15th, at 9.55 P.M.,
in the lumber-sheds at 433 Harrison avenue, and at 10.37 P.M. another was
discovered at 100 Lehigh street, among the lumber-yards. A general alarm was
sounded ; loss at the first, $4,240, and at the second, $8,400 ; insured. At this
fire, Daniel Weston, of Ladder No. 5, fractured his hip, by falling from some
lumber. An alarm was given Thursday, Mai'ch 17, at 9.45 A.M., for a fire
at the City Hospital, which was caused by a kettle of rosin boiling over. Mr.
John Cleary was severely burned. The Brighton abbatoir caught fire Satur-
day, April 2 ; loss, $3,136 ; insured. Thomas J. Tobey, a deck-hand on the
fire-boat, was injured, on the 15th, by being jammed between the draw of the
Meridian-street bridge and the boat, while returning from a fire in an oil-tank
at 496 Chelsea street. East Boston, and died the same day. May 4, the build-
ing Nos. 409 to 413 Atlantic avenue was destroyed ; loss, $28,792 ; insured.
And on the 12th, three alarms were given for a fire at 28 to 39 Charlestown
street, and 2 to 8 Stillman place ; loss, $39,028 ; insured. Hosemen W. "W.
Carsley and J. Strangman, of P^ngine No. 16, were severely injured by being
thrown from a ladder while at a fire in a building on Minot street, occupied
by New Era Coffee Co. and others ; loss to property, $2,754 ; insured.
Commissioner J. E. Fitzgerald was reappointed on the board for three
years, from May, 1882, as chairman. By the death of Assistant Engineer
George Brown, September 13, Captain L. P. Abbott, of Ladder Company No.
3, was promoted, October 2, to fill the vacancy. One second-class Amoskeag
engine, to replace Engine No. 23, was put in service October 10. Three
hose-wagons, one sleigh, one pung, one open buggy, one top-buggy, and a
water-tower were purchased during the year. The latter piece of apparatus
was built by Mr. A. Greenleaf , of Baltimore. It is a portable stand-pipe,
carried on a truck, and weighing about seven thousand five hundred pounds.
Three sections of pipe are carried on the side of the truck, and of such lengths
that the water-tower can be used at elevations of twenty-nine, thirty-six,
fortj'-three, or fifty feet. It has, at the end of the highest section, a flexible
jDipe, to which nozzles can be attached one and one-fourth, one and one-half,
one and three-fourths, or two inches in diameter ; also, an elbow connection
at the foot of the pipe, and seven feet of leading-hose, three and one-half
inches in diameter, from the foot of the ladder, connecting with a four-way
" Siamese," thereby enabling two or three engines to play a powerful stream
through the tower. It is worked from the truck by one man. The stand-pipe
has a rotary motion, and the nozzle attached can be directed perpendicularly
or horizontally, and thus a stream can be thrown in any direction on a
burning building, and at any angle of elevation. This tower was placed in
the house of Ladder No. 8 on March 20.
Arrangements were made by the board with the proprietors of India
wharf for a berth for the fire-boat at the end of the wharf, and for the accom-
324 BISTORT OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
raodation of the officers of the boat a new house was built. The old loeatiou
was iu the vicinity of an outlet of one of the main sewers. The house
formerly occupied by Hose No. 12 was fitted up as an engine-house, and
made the quarters of Engine No. 2, May 10 ; and tlie old house of Elngine
No. 2 was taken possession of by Hose Company No. 12. An order was
issued Marcli 21 forbidding any member of the department assigning their
wages to money-brokers and others as security for money lent them at usu-
rious rates of interest ; a violation of this rule was deemed sufficient cause for
dismissal. On the 28th it was ordered that two-thirds of the members be-
longing to each permanent company should be present during meal hours.
It was made compulsory, May 13, for the members whose apparatus was
obliged to move from their quarters to that of another company during the
progress of a fire to accompany said apparatus and be governed by the run-
ning-card of the company whose place they take. A new running-card was
issued July 25, and an " all-out" signal was to be given after all alarms,
indicated by striking two blows three times on the tappers in the engine-
houses. It was ordered, on October 13, that on and after that date any member
found guilty of intoxication would be immediately dismissed from service.
The former fine of ten days' pay did not have the desired effect ; hence the
above.
A new manual of the department was issued, dated 1882, which went
into effect December 20. This contained a revision of the rules and regula-
tions, as well as the statutes and ordinances, necessary to the proper discharge
of the duties of each member.
The Barnicoat Fire Association was reorganized during January, 1882.
Any former member or volunteer of Barnicoat Engine Company No. 11, or
volunteer of Barnicoat Engine Company No. 4, previous to April 7, 1874 ;
the sons of former members of volunteers of Barnicoat Engine Companies
Nos. 11 and 4, and past or present members of Engine Company No. 4 and
their sons, — were eligible to membership. Upon the death of a member an
assessment of $1 was levied on each surviving member, which sum was paid
to the widow or heirs of the deceased member, by the board of trustees. The
past presidents are as follows : John A. Fynes, 1882 ; Christopher C. Tracy,
1883 ; Thomas P. Bagley, 1884 ; AYilliam T. Cheswell, 1884 ; Samuel Abbott,
Jr., 1885 ; Dexter R. Deering, 1886 ; Fred W. Barry, 1887-1888.
The first fire of any magnitude for the year 1882 broke out on "Wednes-
day, February 1, in the building occupied by C. D. Cobb & Brothers and
others, at 65 and 67 Union street; loss, $23,428 ; insured. Mrs. Mary Wall
was fatally burned at her residence, 108 Warrenton street, on the 6th.
Charles F. Poor, of Engine No. 22, broke his arm while driving to this fire.
On the 10th, the building occupied by Doe, Hunnewell, & Co., 577 Washing-
ton street, was badly damaged ; loss, $44,739 ; insured. C. W. Dixon, of
Ladder No. 8, was badly injured by a falling floor at a fire at 120 Fulton
street, April 18 ; loss, $30,800 ; insured. The building 82 and 84 Lenox
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT, 325
street, occupied by the Union Carpet Lining Company, was destroyed May 2 ;
loss, $24,235 ; insurance, $24,000. Thursday, June 8, an extensive confla-
gration originated in a building on Marginal street, East Boston, occupied hy
the Simpson Dry Dock Company, and before it was got under control the
flames spread to twenty-three other buildings, many of which were totally
destroyed; loss, $17,921 ; insured. Hoseman S. L. Fowle, of Engine No. 9,
was badly hurt at this fire. On the 12th, another large fire was discovered in
the lumber-sheds at 17 to 25 Warehara street; loss, $58,214; insured.
Captain George Fern, of Engine No. 25, had a rib brokei:i by falling through a
scuttle. The plumbing- shop in the United States Navy Yard at Charlestown
was damaged to the extent of $1,120, on the 15th. On the 17th, the building
occupied as a wool warehouse, at 60 Hampshire street, was destroyed ; loss,
$14,155 ; insured. While several of the members were at work in this
building the upper floor gave way, burning them in the d4bris, and severely
injuring Hosemen W. Pierce of Engine No. 12, B. E. Handy and C. A. Straw
of Engine No. 13, Captain C. F. Poor and Hosemen John DivoU and Edward
Kelley of Engine No. 14, Laddermen W. E. Guerrierre of Ladder No. 4, W.
H. Flavell of Ladder No. 8, T. F. Killion, W. H. Whitney, G. L. Swift,
W. C. M. Howe, and C. H. Webber of Ladder No. 12. On the 27th, three
alarms were given for a fire at 131 Border street, East Boston. The flames
soon spread to 122 and 126 Liverpool street and 4 and 8 Decatur street ; loss,
$7,288 ; insured.
The large building 603 Washington street, occupied by several firms,
was badly damaged August 16 ; loss, $19,268 ; insured. W. B. Lottridge, of
Ladder No. 1 , was thrown from the truck and badly injured while going to a
fire at 8 Beacham street, on the 8th. William Rathburn, of Engine No. 6, was
ruptured while at a fire at 141 Portland street, October 27. Four alarms
were given by mistake for a fire at Stetson's wharf, 480 East First street ;
loss, $8,361 ; insured. J. F. McWhirk, of Engine 15, was run over by a
hose-carriage at this fire, and received a severe injury to his back. Novem-
ber 25, at a fire at 4 Leverett street, Assistant Euginemau C. C. Wilson and
W. J. Gaffey, of Engine No. 10, were severely injured by the overturning of
the apparatus. The building occupied by Johii P. Lovell & Sons and others,
147 Washington street and 11 Cornhill, caught fire from a gas explosion,
December 19. At. this fire Ladderman George Hutchinson entered the
burning building and rescued a canister of powder. Captain Bickford, Fore-
man Egan, Laddermen Johnson, Holmes, Grady, .and Boardmau, were with
him at the time of this heroic act ; loss to property, $121 ,096. Messrs. Lovell
& Co. 's loss was $104,522; insurance, $77,500. On the 26th, the building,
212 Camden street, occupied by W. B. Gleason & Co., was destroyed; loss,
$29,641 ; insured. The buildhig occupied by the Mystic Rubber Company,
159 Pearl street, was badly damaged on the 30th ; loss, $25,000 ; insured.
Number of alarms from May 1, 1881, to April 30, 1882, aggregated five
hundred and ninety-three; loss, $615,836; insurance, $4,849,246.
326 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
On June 30, 1883, a ladder-truck of the Hayes pattern was placed in
commission at quarters on Washington, near Dover street, which was for-
merly assigned to the aerial ladder, which apparatus was transferred to the house
of Ladder 8, the water-tower being assigned quarters in the central house between
Engine-house No. 4 and Chemical-house No. 1. Companies were organized
for both. The former was called Ladder Company No. 1 3 , and the latter. Ladder
Company No. 14. July 10, a steam fire-engine was placed in service in quarters
formerly occupied by Chemical-Engine Company No. 7, in the West Roxbury
district ; that company was disbanded, and a company was organized as
Engine Company No. 30. Permanent foremen were assigned on the same date to
Engine Companies Nos. 21 and 24, vice the call-foremen assigned to position
of senior call-hosemen. July 21, the position of Inspector was abolished, and
the powers and duties appertaining to the repair of apparatus, and the charge
of the department repair-shop, were assigned to the foreman of the shop, Mr.
Henry R. Demary, under the title of Superintendent of Apparatus Repairs,
with a salary of $1,500 per year. On the same day an order went into effect
whereby a permanent substitute corps was organized, and assigned to some
permanent company for duty, subject to detail. They were uniformed similar
to the members of the permanent force, and were governed by the same rules
and regulations, and entitled to the same privileges, their compensation being-
fixed at $720 per annum, to be in full for all service rendered. All applicants
for positions in the permanent force were compelled to serve as substitutes
before being appointed to said force. August 1, the position of Inspector of
Hose and Harness was created, with authority to examine into the condition
of hose and harness, and have general charge of repairs of same. Assistant
Engineer J. W. Regan was appointed to this position, with an increase of
salary of $400 per annum.
Commissioner H. W. Lougley. was reappointed in the board for three
years from May, 1883, and elected chairman. November 28, Hoseman George
W. Stimpsou, of Hose Company No. 7, was appointed Hospital Surgeon, with
headquarters at Hose-house No. 7. His duty was to attend all second alarms,
and look after the horses ; also to have full control of the care of sick horses,
giving such medical and surgical aid as may be required ; examine all horses
offered for purchase or hire to this department ; and was to visit the various
houses, and inspect the horses, stables, shoeing, feed, etc. The new-style
hose-carriage, or wagon, was fast taking the place of the old-fashioned
" jumper," or reeL It was only a matter of a few years when they were
almost universally adopted in this department. The apparatus purchased
during the year were : Two Hayes extension-ladder trucks ; one third-class
Silsby, one Hunneman, and one second-class Amoskeag steam-engine ; four
Ryan hose-wagons ; two coal-wagons ; two su^^ply-wagons, one of which was
made at the repair-shop ; one buggy, and one engineer's wagon.
Number of alarms from May 1, 1882, to April 30, 1883, 727; loss,
$814,154 ; insurance, $7,299,353. The first fatality occurred January 4, when
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 327
Miss L. Barry was burnt to death, her clothes catching fire from standing too
near a stove, at her residence, 3. Bulfinch place. Mr. B. F. Underhill, clerk
at headquarters, while assisting Engine Company No. 27 at a fire in 3 and
5 Water street, on the oth, fell through the floor and broke his arm. A chQd
of Mrs. Devlin was burnt to death by falling on a stove at her residence, 6
lOmmet street, on the 13th. Captain Sawyer, of Ladder Company No. 12,
rescued the body of Peter Bannon from the flames, at a fire in the rear of 581
Shawmut avenue, on the 20th. A call for assistance was received from Hyde
Park, at 10 A.M., Thursday, 8th; Engine No. 19 responded. The building
on Codman street, occupied as a factory, was damaged, on March 11, to the
extent of $3,025 ; insured. On the 18th, the building 149 Milk street, oc-
cupied by several tenants, was destroyed ; loss, $49,686 ; insured. Hotel
Berkeley, corner of Berkeley and Boylston streets, was discovered on fire at
4.10 P.M., Friday, April 6, the loss on which was $59,727 ; insured. May 26,
the building 32 and 34 Hawley street, occupied by G. H. Morrill for printing-
inks, etc., was burnt ; loss, $42,775 ; insured. On June 7, there was an explosion
of naphtha in a car attached to Forepaugh's circus, which was lying at Hunting-
ton avenue. Foreman Cummings and Ladderman Wood, of Ladder No. 3, were
severely burned, as were also J. AYilliams and William Stockman, employees of
the circus, the latter dj'ing from his injuries, a few days later. On the 16th,
fire in the building Nos. 9 to 15 Chardon street damaged property to the
extent of $98,102 ; insured. Mrs. McAllister was fatally burned while filling
a lighted lamp at her residence, 28 Wapping street, July 23. Three alarms
were given for a fire at 112 and 118 Orleans street and 2 Percival place, on
the 27th; loss, $8,965; insured. Sunday, August 26, at 2.39 A.M., the
dwelling-house No. 6 Thacher court caught fire. Mrs. F. Savage and her
infant daughter, together with George and Katie and Thomas McLaughlin,
aged respectively 13, 12, and 7 years, were suffocated, or injured so severely
that death ensued. Mrs. McLaughlin and two children were severely burned,
as were Fred and John Savage ; cause of fire was the breaking of a kerosene
lamp. Joseph Marquette was fatally burned at a fire in 214 Friend street,
September 10. On the 12th, fire in the buildings Nos. 103 to 109 West Canton
street damaged property to the extent of $28,854 ; insured. The breaking of
a carboy of acid at 34 Bromfield street, on the 17th, caused the death of Mr.
C.H. Codman ; and, on October 5, Joseph King was fatally burned at a fire in
138 Richmond street. Mr. McDonald, of 6 Island street, while in a fit, Oc-
tober 20, dropped a lamp, which set the bed, etc., in a blaze, resulting in his
death. On November 16, while at a fire at 61 Haverhill street. Driver Smith
and Hoseman Graves, of Engine No. 4, were slightly, and Hoseman Hurley
severely, burned, and Hoseman Leonard, of Engine No. 6, asphyxiated. At
a fire in the building corner of First and L streets, December 7, property
was destroyed to the extent of $35,500 ; insured. On the 8th, at 46 to 50
Federal street, and 143 to 147 Congress street, the loss aggregated $83,175 ;
insured. On the 22d, the Cambridge Street Railroad Company's stable,
328 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
corner of Winship and "Washington streets, was badly damaged ; loss, $16,104 ;
insured.
The term of office of Commissioner White having expired April 30, 1884,
the Mayor appointed Chief Engineer W. A. Green to the office. By the vacancy
occasioned by the appointment of Commissioner Green, assistant engineer of
District No. 8, Louis P. Webber, was promoted his successor, on October 23,
six weeks after. Mr. Webber was promoted assistant engineer, vice John
Colligan, transferred to Engine Company No. 18 as foreman. Capt. Edward
H. Saw3'er, of Ladder Company No. 12, succeeded Mr. Webber, on November
1, as assistant engineer.
Chief Louis P. Webber was born in Long Island, N.Y., November 18,
1843. His first duty as fireman began when he became a member of Tremont
Engine Company 7, of the Roxbury Fire Department. When the old-time
hand-engine gave way to the modern steam one, he was appointed a hoseman
on Dearborn Steamer 1, which subsequently, when Roxbury was annexed to
Boston, became Engine Company 14. In 1868 he was elected assistant fore-
man, and two years later was chosen to take charge of the command. At
the time of the reorganization of the Boston Department, in 1874, the Fire
Commissioners made him permanent foreman of this company. He retained
this position until May 13, 1880, when his qualifications as a foreman,
coupled with the excellent record he had made, induced the commissioners to
transfer him to a more responsible field of duty, and he was given charge of
Engine Company No. 3, located on Harrison avenue, in the dangerous lumber
district. Here "■ Phil " Webber, as his intimate friends are wont to call him,
made his mark, and when a vacancy occurred in the Board of Assistant
Engineers he was selected to fill it, and was assigned to the eighth fire
district. He had hardly settled down to his work in Roxbury, amid the
scenes of his first duties as a fireman, when the seat in the Board of Fire
Commissioners left vacant by the retirement of Mr. Edward A. White was
filled by the selection of Chief Engineer William A. Green. Then the
question came before the commissioners of who should be the chief engineer.
District Chief Webber was elected by a unanimous vote, beginning his duties
as such October 23, 1884, six weeks after his promotion to take charge of a
district. From the time of his advent to the most prominent position in the
department he has had to cope with a number of disastrous fires ; but his
method of handling them has, in nearly every case, been above comment,
and he has had uniform success since his inauguration. One of his strongest
points is his popularity among his men, all of whom hold him in the highest
esteem, and would do all in their power for him. Chief Webber never sends
his men where he is unwilling to go himself, and at no time will he allow the
men to " carry the pipe" into a spot where there is immediate danger.
Mr. A. Charles Scott was appointed during the year a clerk at head-
quai'ters. Engine Companies Nos. 1, 9, 12, 13, and 27 were reorganized
during September as permanent companies, of nine men each, and per-
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HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 331
maneut captains were substituted for call-foremen in Engine Companies Nos.
2, 5, 11, 18, and 20, and Ladder Companies Nos. 2, 4, 5, 9, and 12. Hose
Company No. 2 was disbanded March 17, and its members reinstated as
members of Engine Company No. 32, which was organized on that date ; at
the same time call-foreman William E. Delano, of Engine Company No. 27,
was promoted call-engineer of District No. 2.
During the year the following new apparatus wq,s purchased : Two Silsby
second-class engines, one Hayes extension ladder, one chemical engine, seven
hose-wagons, six engineers' wagons, one coal-wagon, and four pungs. The
extension ladder was placed in service April 25, at Fort Hill square, under
charge of Ladder Company No. 14, the aerial ladder, previously used, being
found of no value. By an order of the City Council permanent hosemeu and
laddermen received a salary at the rate of $1,000 per annum for the first two
years of service, and $3 per day thereafter. An order was issued January 15
whereby the crew of the fire-boat were reorganized on the same basis as engine
companies of the permanent force, and designated Engine Company No. 31.
The assistant foreman, or lieutenant, as this officer was generally termed
throughout the department, was, in addition to his regular duty as hoseman,
to act as pilot of the boat, under the direction of the captain. The board,
after an investigation of the many cases of collision that occurred during the
year between the apparatus of the department, and also with private citizens
and members of this service, were convinced that reckless driving was the
principal cause ; an order was, therefore, passed June 26, that the board would
" hold all drivers of apparatus alone responsible for their safety in going to
and returning from fires, and that drivers shall have exclusive control, and
will be held responsible for the speed of the apparatus on these occasions,
without interference from any person whatsoever, and any evidence of lack of
judgment on their part, or reckless driving, will be followed by fine, removal,
or dismissal." They were also reminded that, by a decision of the Supreme
Court, the city is not liable for any injur}' to person or property resulting from
their acts, but that they personally were civilly and criminally liable therefor.
All the houses in the department were, on August 13, ordered to be draped
in mourning for thirty days, in respect to the memory of Hoseman Joseph
Pierce and permanent substitute James Quigley, of Engine Company No. 4,
who, on the morning of August 13, while at work on the roof of the burning
building 108 to 112 Beach street, were killed by the falling in of the roof,
whereby they were thrown into the flames.
The style of uniform overcoat for members of the department was changed
October 1. The new. coat was to be made of Middlesex beaver, thirty ounces
weight, double-breasted ; to button clear to the neck, with five buttons on a
side, equidistant apart ; three on each sleeve, with a slash at the cuff ; whole
back, with a vent in the side seam, open one and a half inches; flap on each
breast, and pocket under left one ; side pockets covered with flaps ; edge
turned in, double-stitched one-half inch ; seams lapped and stitched raw, the
332 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
same width. The sack-coat was as heretofore mentioned, except the length
was to be one and a half inches shorter than the overcoat.
The Massachusetts State Firemen's Association was organized at New
Era Hall, Boston, May 10, 1881, and incorporated May 10, 1883. From tlie
articles of incorporation we clip the following : —
John S. Dararell, H. H. Esterbrook, Samuel Abbott, Jr., Z. T. Merrill, George S.
Willis, F. H. Humphrey, A. P. Leshure, W. M. Snow, C. A. Hemenway, J. W. Morse,
J. U. Hilliard, E. D. Donnell, James M. Gould, and E. P. Russell have associated them-
selves with the intention of forming a corporation under the name of the " Massachusetts
State Firemen's Association," for the purpose of the mutual benefit and protection of its
members, and the establishment of a fund to aid the Avidows, orphans, or other relatives
and dependents of deceased members, and have complied with the provisions of the
Statutes of this Commonwealth in such case made and provided, as appears from the
certificate of the President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Executive Committee of said cor-
poration, duly approved by the Commissioner of Corporations, and recorded in this
oflRce.
The first officers were : President, Ex-Chief John S. Damrell, Boston.
Vice-presidents, Chief C. M. Whipple, Westfield ; Chief H. L. Bixby,
Newton ; Chief E. R. Seaver, Stoneham ; Chief W. E. Heald, Lawrence ;
Chief Frederick Macy, New Bedford. Secretary, H. H, Easterbrook, of
Hose 7, Newton. Treasurer, Captain Samuel Abbott, Jr., Protective Depart-
ment^ Boston. Executive committee, Chief William C. Davol, Fall River ;
Capt. John Allen Root, Engine 2, Pittsfield ; J. M. Gould, Hose 2, Somer-
ville; Chief A. C. Moody, Lynn; Chief A. P. Leshure, Springfield ; Chief
S. E. Combs, Worcester ; Ex-Chief W. H. Turner, Haverhill.
Its several conventions have been held as follows : Second, Springfield,
October 11, 12, 13, 1881 ; third, Faneuil Hall, Boston, September 26, 27, 28,
1882; fourth, New Bedford, October 9, 10, 11, 1883; fifth. Fall River,
October 14, 15, 16, 1884; sixth. New Era Hall, Boston, October 13, 14, 15,
1885; seventh, Pittsfield, August 31, September 1, 2, 1886; eighth, Taun-
ton, September 7, 8, 9, 1887 ; ninth, Haverhill, September 5, 6, 7, 1888.
Its three principal officers since its organization have been : Ex-Chief
John S. Damrell, of Boston, 1881-85 ; Chief Walter M. Snow, of Middle-
boro', 1886; G. S. Willis, of Pittsfield, 1887; Chief Abner Coleman, of
Taunton, 1888 ; Chief Edward Charlesworth, of Haverhill, 1889 ; Superin-
tendent Samuel Abbott, Jr., of the Boston Protective Department, 1889-90.
Secretaries : H. H. Easterbrook, of Hose 7, Newton, 1881-85 ; Samuel Abbott,
Jr., Boston, 1886-87; Capt. E. F. Martin, of Engine 7, Boston, 1888; D.
Arthur Burt, of Hose 5, Taunton, 1889-90. Treasurers : Samuel Abbott, Jr.,
Boston, 1881-84 ; Chief C. M. Whipple, of Westfield, 1885-90.
Total number of alarms from May 1, 1883, to April 30, 1884, seven
hundred and ui nety -three ; loss, $998,554; insurance, $7,981,807. January
4, the Home for Destitute Children, on Harrison avenue, was damaged to the
extent of $2,413 ; insured. Lieutenant Hibbard, of Engine No. 3, had his
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 333
right arm broken by a falling hose-pipe, at a fire corner of Berkeley street
and Columbus avenue, on the 17th. February 9, Lieutenant John Grady, of
Ladder No. 1, was severely injured by being thrown from a ladder at a fire in
Chelsea and Gray streets. William Andrews was rescued from the building
Nos. 456 to 464 Harrison avenue, which caught fire on the 15th ; loss, $19,302 ;
insured. On the 19th, Mr. Patrick Howard was rescued from the building
No. 16 Tileston street, but died shortly after. At a fire in 21 Pearl and 138
Congress streets. May 8, the loss to property amounted to $23,391 ; insured.
Two alarms were given for a fire in the old prison-yard, which originated in a
pile of shavings; loss, $2,421 ; insurance, $1,421. On the 29th, fire at 406
Border street (McKay's wharf) caused a damage to property of $27,500;
insured. Several members of the department were badly burned by an explo-
sion of hot air at a fire in 152 to 158 Congress street, June 12 ; loss, $261,879 ;
insured. On the day following, lumber-sheds, corner of Lehigh and Albany
streets, were damaged to the extent of $32,588 ; insured. Owing to a col-
lision of ai)paratus, while responding to a fire at 108 Fulton street, the 16th,
Hosemen McLaughlin and Stevens, of Engine No. 4, and a citizen named F.
C. Douglass, were severely injured. Assistant Engineer Imbert, of Engine
No. 11, was severely injured by falling from a wharf to a float-stage, at a fire
in New street. East Boston, the 17th. Engines Nos. 6, 10, 32, and Hose
Companies Nos. 1 and 8, responded to a call for assistance from Somerville, on
the 20th; and on the 22d, Engine No. 16 and Ladder 6 responded to^a call
from Milton. Ladderman M. Murnan, of Ladder No. 8, was severely injured
by falling from the truck while responding to an alarm from 51 and 53 High
street, on the 29th. July 4, Charles Schworm, a member of Protective Com-
pany No. 1, fell through the floor of a building at 37 Central wharf, and
was seriously injured. A fire on the 23d, in the buildings Nos. 262 to 268
Dover street, occupied as a shoe-factory, caused a damage of $44,550 ; in-
sured. A call for assistance from Chelsea was received on the 28th. JMrs.
Hannah Wheelan was burned to deatli at her residence, 11 Davenport street,
August 10-.
The large buildings Nos. 108 to 112 Beach street, occupied by several
tenants, caught fire Wednesday, August 13, at midnight. It was at this con-
flagration that Hosemen Pierce and Quigley, of Engine 4, were burned to
death. Loss to property, $51,866 ; insured. Mrs. Regan was fatally burned
by building a fire with kerosene oil, at her residence, 7 Fayette street, on the
18th. September 10, Miss Kate Connelly met with the same fate from a
similar cause, at her residence, 128 Gold street. Mr. V. Sneider was seriously
burned while trying to extinguish the flames in her clothing. Three alarms
were given on the 25th, for a fire in Taylor street-; loss, $51,609. Mrs.
Elizabeth Kelly and Thomas Kane were rescued from the burning building
Nos. 2 to 6 Everett court, October 25. Mrs. Kelly died from her injuries.
William Stewart, watchman in the plauing-mill 137 Border street, which was
-destroyed November 18, was burned to death. Mr. Sawyer, together with
834 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
his daughters Esther and Ida, lost their lives by suffocation from smoke, la a
fire in their dwelling, 62 Castle street, on the 20th.
Commissioner John E. Fitzgerald was reappointed on the board, and
chosen chairman for three years, dating from May 1, 1885. Captain John A.
Mullen, of Engine Company No. 15, was promoted to the position of assistant
engineer, August 20, and assigned to District No. 6, vice Assistant Engineer
L. P. Abbott, transferred to District No. 3, in the place of assistant Engineer
W. H. Cunningham, resigned. A new building was erected during the year,
at the corner of Albany and Bristol streets, for a repair-shop. The building
is of brick, and gives accommodation for all the work to be done on apparatus,
hose, and harness, and affords room for storage of supplies, etc. A large yard
and building adjoining, on Bristol street, gives additional storage-room for
lumber and other articles. During the four winter months extra horses were
placed in service, under agreement with the owners that such service should be
without cost to the city other than the care and feed, the same as is given the
regular horses of the department. The new apparatus purchased during the
year consisted of the following: One Mancliester (Amoskeag) and one Silsby
second-class engines, two ladder-truclcs, one chemical engine (for Chemical
Company No. 1), one hose-wagon, one coal-wagon, and one. pung.
The first extensive fire during 1885 broke out January 18, at 8.44 P.M.,
in the building Nos. 45 to 63 Eastern avenue, occupied by the Bay State
Sugar Refinery ; loss, $222,278 ; insured. An overheated furnace in the
building 230 to 234 Beacon street, on the 29th, caused a loss of $23,094 ;
insured. James W. Sweetser, member of Protective Company No. 1, was
instantly killed by the falling of a ladder while at a fire at 43 India square,
March 8. Three alarms were sounded for a conflagration at the factory of
the Boston Machine Company, located on First and Granite streets, on the
20th; loss, $180,649 ; insurance, $122,700. Fifty-eight workmen lost their
tools, valued at $2,750; no insurance. On the 21st the Continental Sugar
Refining Company had their buildings destroyed; loss, $24,201; insured.
The building occupied by the Boston Dyewood and Chemical Company, 317
Border street, was burned on the 18th; loss, $39,239 ; insured. Miss Flora
Evans was fatally burned, April 7, by her clothing taking fire from a lamp
thrown at her by a visitor at her dwelling, 19 Lyman street. Annie Curran,
aged six years, was run over and killed on Prince street, Saturday, 18th, by
the hose-carriage of Engine No. 8, while responding to an alarm from 218 to
222 Main street. Miss Helen Fitzgerald, of 268 Eustis street, was fatally
burned. May 27, by her clothes taking fire from building a fire with kerosene
oil. Her mother and Miss Maggie Finney were severely burned while ex-
tinguishing the flames. At 'a tire in the "Youth's Companion" oflflce, 41
Temple place, on the 28th, property was destroyed to the extent of $28,904 ;
msured. Mrs. E. E. Alley, of 35 Vernon street, was fatally burned, June
14, by her clothes taking fire from a stove near which she was standing. A
large conflagration occurred Monday, 22d, at 8.21 P.M., in the large build-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 335
iug Nos. 89 to 93 Fraukliu street, occupied by Abraham Freucli & Co. ; loss,
$82,670 ; insured. John Bacon, an employe of the Maverick Oil Works
Company, was fatally burned at a fire in their works on Chelsea street, July
2. Engine No. 15 was despatched to the assistance of the Norwood, Mass.,
department, Saturday, 19th. On the 21st, Mrs. L. Fliegel, of 130 Longwood
avenue, was fatally burned by building a fire with kerosene oil. The Stand-
ard Dyewood Company and others lost $28,561 from a fire in the building
Nos. 12 and 13 Sargent's wharf, Tuesday, 28th. A fire, August 10, in the
buildings 33 to 38 Lewis wharf, occupied as United States bonded ware-
houses, caused a damage to property of $115,010; insured. The Smith
oro-an factory, corner of Montgomery and Clarendon streets, was destroyed
on the 18th; loss, $45,632; insured. Three alarms were given for a fire at
34 and 36 Sargent street, occupied as dwellings and stables; loss, $9,597;
insured. Total number of alarms from May 1, 1884, to April 30, 1885, nine
hundred and twenty-seven; loss, $1,593,394 ; insurance, $8,068,295.
Mr. Robert G. Fitch succeeded Commissioner H. W. Longley, May 1,
and on the resignation of Commissioner J. E. Fitzgerald, August 18, was
appointed chairman of the board, and Mr. John R. JNIurphy received the
appointment of commissioner. Mr. Fitch was reappointed by Mayor Thomas
N. Hart, from May, 1889, for three years.
Mr. Thomas Norton Hart, Mayor of Boston, was born on January 20,
1829, at North Reading, Mass. His father was a farmer; his mother,
a woman of great refinement, was of the Nortons at Royalston. Mr. Hart's
grandfather on his mother's side, Major John Norton, fought in the Revo-
lutionary war. It will thus be seen that the chosen representative of the
people is not a born aristocrat, for his father was poor, and, when a mere
stripling, young Hart came to Boston to earn his living. He found em-
ployment in the dry-goods store of Wheelock, Pratt, & Co., on Kilby street,
and lived with the family of the senior partner, who is still living. After a
short experience in the Boston store, Mr. Hart returned to his native town to
complete such an education as could then be had in a country school. After
a term thus spent, he returned to Boston, more than forty years ago, and
entered a hat, cap, and fur store on Hanover street. The store was kept by
C. B. Griunell and S. B. Proctor, with whom Mr. Hart stayed until 1850,
when he entered the wholesale and retail store of Philip A. Locke, on Dock
square. In 1855 he was admitted as partner ; the business was transferred to
Elm street, the firm name being changed to Philip A. Locke & Co. In 1860
Mr. Hart founded the house of Hart, Taylor, & Co., his partners being Mr.
Frederick B. Taylor and the late Orin B. North. This firm, also devoted to
the hat, cap, and fur business, rose to be the greatest of its kind in New
England, and one of the three or four largest in the country. The firm began
business in August, 1860, finally erected a building of its own in Chauncy
street, and retired on December 31, 1878, — selling out to Dyer, Taylor, &
Co. The firm of Hart, Taylor, & Co. did not formally dissolve until 1885.
336 HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Mr. Hart's exceptional success in business brought him in contact with many"
people, and in 1878 he yielded to the importunities of Mr. Phineas Peirce,
Mr. Charles H. Allen, Mr. Alanson W. Beard, and others, to enter the
Common Council, where Mr. Hart served in 1879, 1880, and 1881 ; in 1882,
1885, and 1886 he served as alderman, representing first the South End, then
the Fifth Aldermauic District. Since retii'iug from active business Mr. Hart
has assumed the presidency of the Mt. Vernon National Bank, and brought it
up to a good degree of prosperity. lu politics he has always maintained the
principle of national unity and union ; also the principle of national protection,
of free public schools, and of equal rights for all American citizens, without
making a distinction of race, color, nation, or creed. Though living a quiet
and retired life with his famil}^, he is a member of several clubs and an occa-
sional attendant. He has always been a liberal contributor to benevolent
enterprises, and at times has given them much personal attention.
Mr. Hart was a constant attendant at the famous Fisher Hill investiga-
tion. He opposed the granting of a franchise to the Bay State Gas Com-
pany to enter the streets of Boston for the sole purpose of making money,
and he has had many a tilt, and occasionally a hard fight, with the elements
then controlling our municipal affau's. These struggles for clean government,
in the interests of the people, are a matter of public record, and Mr. Hart's
political opponents have never questioned his integrity, his ability, and exu-
berant good-nature. Contrary to his wishes, he was nominated for Mayor in
1886, and renominated in 1887. The nomination of 1888 came to him unso-
licited. His letter of acceptance, substantially like that of 1887, states that
fact.
In 1886 Mayor Hart was the nominee of the Republicans only ; in 1887
and 1888, of the regular Republican and the Citizens' conventions. Although
himself a Republican, Mayor Hart has taken, both as a candidate and as
Mayor, a distinct stand for the non-partisan principle of government. His
acts as Mayor are in harmony with this principle.
Robert G. Fitch, Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners, first saw
the light in the town of Sheffield, Mass., Marcli 19, 1846. He fitted for col-
lege at New Marlboro', Mass., and in 1866 entered Williams College, from
which he graduated during 1870. Having a love for journalism, he moved to
Springfield, Mass., and entered the office of the " Springfield Republican,"
where he began from the first rung of the ladder, 'filling the position of copy-
holder, proof-reader, local reportei-, etc., until January 1, 1872, when he was
assigned to Boston as legislative correspondent. His success in that capacity
is well known, the articles contributed by him being recognized as the most
authentic and able reports of the legislative proceedings published. He held
that position until May, 1872, when he was offered, and accepted, an editorial
position on the " Boston Post." His supei'ior abilities as a journalist were
soon recognized. In 1878 he was made managing editor, and in 1881 he
assumed the chair of editor-in-chief. Under his management the paper be-
HISTORY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. 337
came a power in political matters, its leading editorials being at all times
fearless and impartial. He held that office until 1885, and in 188G was
appointed on the Board of Fire Commissioners by Mayor O'Brien. Chairman
Fitch is a gentleman highly esteemed in both social and political circles, and
in his duties on this board is at all times in favor of progress ; at the same
time, never hasty in his decisions. He is a strict disciplinarian, but does not
expect impossibilities ; in fact, a gentleman highly qualified to fill his office.
Commissioner John R. Murphy is the junior member of the board, and
the youngest man to hold this office that has ever been appointed. He M^as
born at Charlestown District, Boston, Mass., August 25, 1856. He attended
the public schools of that section, and at an early age graduated from the
Harvard Grammar and the Charlestown High schools. During 1873 he
began his business career by entering the commission house of Messrs. Silsbee
& Murphy, of this city, where he remained until 1876, when he was engaged in
the business department of tlie "Pilot," — one of the best-known weekly
newspapers published in Boston. Two years and six months later he was
engaged as business manager, in which capacity Mr. Murphy met with signal
success, the business affairs of the paper being in a most prosperous condi-
tion. He was elected a member of the Legislature from Ward 5 during 1883,
1884, and 1885, aud a member of the Senate from Charlestown District the
year following, when he was appointed by Mayor Hugh O'Brien a member of
the Board of Fire Commissioners, in which office his services have proved of
special benefit. Mr. Murphy is a member of several social organizations,
including the Royal Arcanum and the Foresters.
A new house for the accommodation of Ladder Company No. 9 and Hose
Company No. 1 was erected the ensuing year on Main street, Charlestown.
A new house was also erected at the corner of Saratoga and Byron streets,
East Boston, for Chemical Company No. 7, which was organized and put in
commission September 27. A new ladder-truck for Ladder Company No. 3
was put in service June 21. The system of giving public alarms on the bells
in the West End and in the city proper north of Dover street, with the excep-
tion of the bell on Faneuil Hall, was discontinued during the year.
Orders were issued July 9 to the effect that weekly payments had been
adopted in the department. This new order of things necessitated a change
in making out certificates of time. The absentee reports were abolished, and
the time of each member was entered on the roll. Leaves of absence, when
less than for twenty-four hours, were granted for six, twelve, and eighteen
hours. The officers of pei'manent companies and members in charge of
quarters of call-companies were held responsible for making out and for-
warding the rolls.
Mr. Charles W. Whitcomb was appointed to the office of Fire Marshal
November, 1886, with headquarters at No. 5 Pemberton square. The act
establishing this office was passed October 30, and accepted by the Common
Council October 6.
338 HISTQEY OF BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
An Act to establish the Office of Fire Marshal of the City of Boston.
£e it enacted, etc. , as follows: —
Section 1. The governor of the Commonwealth, by the advice and with the consent
of the council, shall appoint an officer to be known as the fire marshal of the city of Boston,
■who shall be a citizen of said city, to hold office for a terra of three years from the date
of ins appointment, or until his successor is appointed. Said fire marshal may be removed
at any time by the governor.
Sect. 2. It shall be the duty of said fire marshal to examine into the cause, circum-
stances, and origin of fires occurring within the municipal district of Boston, by which any
building, vessels, vehicles, or any valuable personal property shall be accidentally or un-
lawfully burned, destroyed, lost, or damaged wholly or partially ; and to especially examine
and decide whether the fire was the result of carelessness or the act of an incendiary.
The said fire marshal shall, when in his opinion said proceedings are necessary, take the
testimony, on oath, of all persons supposed to be cognizant of any facts or to have means
of knowledge in relation to the matters herein required to be examined and inquired into,
and cause the same to be reduced to \rriting, verified and transmitted to the district
attorney of the county of Suffolk, and to the board of fire commissioners of the city of
Boston. Said fire marshal shall report in writing to the owners of property, or other
persons interested in the subject-matter of investigation, any facts and circumstances
which he may have ascertained by such inquiries and investigation which shall in his
opinion require attention from said person or persons, and it shall be the duty of said fire
marshal, whenever he shall be of opinion that there is evidence sufficient to charge any
person with the crime of arson, to cause such person to be arrested and charged with sucli
offence, and furnish to the district attorney all the evidences of guilt, with the names of
witnesses and all the information obtained by liini, including a copy of all pertinent and
material testimony taken in the case ; and he shall specially report to the board of fire
commissioners, as often as such board shall require, his proceedings and the progress made
in all prosecutions for arson, and the result of all cases which are finally disposed of.
Sect. 3. The fire marshal shall have power to subpoena witnesses and to compel their
attendance before him in like manner and effect as trial justices to testify in relation to
any matter which is, by the provisions of this act, a subject of inquiry and investigation
by said fire marshal. The sail fire marshal shall be and is hereby authorized to admin-
ister and verify oaths and affirmations to persons appearing as witnesses before him, and
false swearing in any matter or proceeding aforesaid shall be deemed perjury and shall be
punishable as such. The said fire marshal shall have authority, at all times in the day or
night, in performance of the duties imposed by the provisions of this act, to enter upon
and examine any building or premises where any fire shall have occurred, and the build-
ings and premises adjoining and near to that in which the fire occurred.
Sect. 4. The compensation of the fire marshal shall be a salary of three thousand
dollars per annum, which shall be paid in monthly instalments by the treasurer of the city
of Boston. Such salary, and all expenses incurred by said fire marshal in making inquests
for the purpose of determining the origin of fires, shall be included in the expenses of the
county of Suffolk.
Sect. 5. It shall be t 
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