The History of the Columbia Fire Company

This was the second fire station located across from the Park

Some important dates in our history:

Columbia Volunteer Fire Co. was established on December 17, 1889, 24 years after Osceola Mills became a borough. Among the first officers of this time were Chief Samuel B. Stine, Assistant Chief M.F. Seeger, President George E. Jones, Vice President H.W. Wells, Secretary Louis C. Dyer, and Treasurer G.M.H. Good.

The first fireman's fair was held in November of 1889. The sum profit of $313.63 was used to extend the hydrant system and also to purchase a new hose carriage. The second, held three months later, yielded another $900. The prizes awarded were a doll, a sleigh and a parlor suit thus starting another 4th of July tradition.

With the help of other local fire companies, Columbia Fire Co. formed the Central District Fireman's Association in 1890. This association is now the largest organization for fire departments in the state.  

July of 1925 started the tradition of our annual 4th of July fair. Held July 1st thru 4th it contained booths, stands, shows, and another yearly tradition, fireworks. This year yielded a sum of $4,943.40 with a profit of $2,793.23.

The first fire hall was built in March of 1891 on the corner of South Lingle and Coal Streets, where the present day Heath Funeral Home is located. in August 1919 this fire hall was destroyed by fire.

The second fire hall was built March 16, 1922 at a cost of almost $15,000. It was located on Lingle Street. This hall was also used as for council offices. It was also used as a "lock up" with two of three cells. The first was washed away in a flood the same day as the Johnstown flood in 1889. The second was later removed. One cell still remains in the basement of this fire hall.

The present fire hall/ Social Hall was built in 1994 and is located on Curtain and Pruner Streets. It cost approximately $250,000 to build.

This is the current fire hall

Throughout the history of the fire company, there have been many fire apparatus purchased. In 1957, a Ward LaFrance Pumper was purchased for $14,000. In 1960, a panel truck was purchased for $4,000 and used as a rescue truck. In 1969, a Dodge Pumper was purchased for $25,000. In 1979, a Ford Pumper was purchased for $77,000. In 1987, a Rescue Truck was purchased for $65,000. In 1993, a KME engine/Pumper was purchased for $196,000. In 1994 a 1978 dodge mini Pumper was bought. In 1995, a refurbished 1982 Mack ladder truck with a 106 foot ladder, was purchased for $135,000. In 1999 a 1973 Mack – Grumman Pumper was bought for $25,000. A 2006  Pierce Enforcer was purchased for $135,00 in 2006 and a 1994 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD was purchased in 2008 for $15,000 it is used as our Utility.

Columbia Fire Company's Chief list from 1889 to present(note that from 1890 to 1946 we have no record of chiefs for these dates)

 
All information provided by Company Historian Alex R. Hynd Jr. If you have any information reguarding our company or chief history or corrections to the above information please contact us. Thanks.

  


The above cards were given to the company to be used for history purposes. The family member also gave us permission for it to be used on this website.