Fire Company History
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 Samuel B. Stine, Chief; M.F.
Seeger, Assistant Chief; Goerge E. Jones, President; H.W. Wells,
Vice-President; Louis C. Dyer, Secretary; G.M.H. Good, Treasurer.
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.
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.
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 approxamitly $250,000 to build.
Chief's list from the begining of the company (note From 1890 to 1946 the names are missing)
