West Harrison Fire Department: West Harrison Fire Department (Silver Lake): History 1911-1986

History Of The

West Harrison Independent Fire Co. #1

Prior to 1911 there was a fire company in West Harrison, formed by a group of civic minded citizens who were not only charter members, but in fact owned the fire department. The company was called WEST HARRISON FIRE COMPANY.

In 1911 a charter was obtained from the State of New York for the formation of THE WEST HARRISON INDEPENDENT FIRE COMPANY #1. A bond for $500.00 was obtained from a gentleman named William F. Pflug, to build a small firehouse on the southwest corner of Grant and Columbus Avenue. Ward A. Vantassel Wood was president of the fire company and as such signed the bond indenture. Dances were held periodically to raise funds for an engine room and other needed apparatus.

An arrangement was worked out with the town board, that the fire fighters would be paid for fire protection. There was a group of elected fire commissioners who presided over the administration and purchase of fire equipment.

West Harrison Fire Company #1 Entered the machine age in 1914, with the purchase of a 1914 Steward Fire Truck. In 1928 the department added a Mack Fire Truck

The progressive need for more equipment obviously generated the need for more space. In 1936 the Town Board purchased fire department equipment from the owners (stock holders) constructed our present beautiful building and incorporated the fire district into the water district #1. The continued growth of our community ultimately necessitated a building addition, which was completed in 1972.

To meet the changing fire equipment and fire fighting techniques required formal training for our members. It now mandatory that our members attend courses at the Westchester Training Center. We are proud to say our members are among the very best volunteers.

We continue adding and replacing equipment to our present inventory of

1956 Ward LaFrance Pumper

1963 International Harvester

1973 Mack Tower Ladder

1985 Seagrave Pumper

It is. Therefore, fitting and proper that now celebrate our 75th Anniversary, not only for the inception of fire company, but for it continued success as well. In keeping with our tradition, it is honor and pride that we commemorate the memory of our deceased brother firemen who served their community so well. We thank them for giving us this legacy and hope to continue their commitment of service to our community.

We look forward with eager anticipation to our 100th anniversary

The Committee