COMPANY 1

Print Printer Friendly Version

Fire Horses

     "The elements of nature such as mud and deep snow of the good old days often stymied the firemen in their efforts to reach the fires." A fireman who owned a horse and was the first to arrive at the fire hall and hook the pumper to his horse received $1.25. Although domesticated to pull man's load for thousands of years, this faithful servant and companion only became associated with the fire service in the twilight of the horse era. Firefighters felt that America was founded on brute strength, a strength and courage that could not and should not be replaced. They felt it was their duty to continue the heritage their forefathers had left. They were reluctant to allow the horse replace their own muscle power and claim the honor of pulling their beloved machines. They did finally realized that by giving the horse the task of getting the fire apparatus to the scene, their strength would be saved for the more serious job of extinguishing the fire. Through the years, the firefighters grew to love and respect their fire horses and marveled with pride at the beauty those noble creature manifested as they ran, hoofs tapping and fire bell ringing pulling the fire engine through the streets.

Company 1 • East & Wood Street • Vineland, NJ 08360
856-205-7366 • 856-205-7367 Fax

HOME | HISTORY | MEMBERS |PHOTOS | LOSAP | LINKS | EMAIL

Copyright © 2000-2002 Vineland Fire Department Company 1. All rights reserved.