TOWN OF ALBERTON
Est. 1876

F I R E  DEPARTMENT
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About Us:
 History
The Alberton Volunteer Fire Department was formed in 1876. The fire department of that time is a stark contrast to the department of today, in regards to equipment and training. The organization known as the Alberton Fire Department was born out of a meeting of householders who appointed a committee to inquire about obtaining a fire engine for Alberton. It was soon learned that a fire engine with one hundred feet of hose could be purchased for the sum of $500. With this information, a committee was struck to recruit members and to petition the Legislature for financial aid in purchasing the above mentioned equipment. The committee consisted of Hon. R.B. Reid, John T. Weeks, Benjamin Rogers, P. Gavin, and M. Foley. Two years would pass before this equipment came into the possession of the Town, during which several major buildings would be consumed by fire.

In 1878 when the Act for the better government of rising towns and villages was passed, several steps were taken to better protect the town from fire. It was declared that part of the money acquired through taxation was to be put towards fire prevention and firefighting. Also, several fire safety regulations were put in place. These regulations required that homeowners have a leather or galvanized iron bucket which could hold no less than two gallons, was clearly identified as belonging to the owner, and was stored in or near the entry of a building. Failing to comply with this order would result in a fine of $1.00 being levied against the homeowner. This is of course a mere pittance today, but had very different implications at that time. The fire regulations also required that each building have a ladder on the premises tall enough to reach the roof of the building. Biannual inspections were carried out by fire wardens Benjamin Rogers, David Hunter, Peter Gavin, Benjamin Champion, and Alexander MacLeod to insure these regulations were upheld and that flues and stovepipes were in working order and to see that ashes were disposed of properly.

From humble beginnings, the Department has progressed into a modern force adapting to the changes and challenges the years bring.