The Manoa Fire Company has a long and storied history, rooted in its establishment in 1925 as The Eagle Precinct Fire Association. Our journey through nearly a century is marked by significant milestones and progressive advancements in firefighting and emergency services.
Early Years and Expansion:
- The first major purchase by the company was a Pirsch Dodge combination hose and chemical truck in 1926 for $3,175.00, followed by a 500 GPM Pirsch pump in 1927.
- During the Great Depression, the fire company sustained its operations through community-driven activities like fairs and raffles.
World War II Innovations:
- In 1941, faced with wartime resource shortages, the company innovatively constructed a fire engine on a Dodge chassis from McGarrity and Moser car dealership. This truck was built by the fire company members themselves, a testament to our resourcefulness during difficult times.
- 1943 marked the introduction of our first rescue truck, repurposing the original 1927 Dodge vehicle. This truck was particularly active during WWII, even responding to emergencies in Philadelphia.
Post-War Developments and EMS Involvement:
- The acquisition of a Studebaker ambulance in 1945 from Episcopal Hospital signified Manoa's first steps into Emergency Medical Services, setting a precedent for local fire services expanding into medical response.
- The following decades saw continual upgrades in equipment and facilities, including the transition from traditional ambulances to more modern van and box-style ambulances in the 1970s.
Modern Era and Infrastructure Upgrades:
- The late 20th and early 21st centuries were characterized by significant upgrades, including the purchase of modern firefighting apparatus like the Pierce Mini Pumper in 1990 and a series of newer engines and rescue-pumpers through the 2000s.
- A major renovation in 1999-2000 led to the complete reconstruction of the firehouse, introducing modern amenities and safety systems, ensuring the building was well-equipped to meet contemporary needs.
Historical Significance and Community Role:
- Throughout its history, the Manoa Fire Company has not only been a crucial emergency response unit but also a central part of its community in Havertown, Pennsylvania. Our adaptation to maroon-colored trucks reflects a nod to our original aesthetic, blending tradition with modernity.
The detailed evolution of the Manoa Fire Company showcases our commitment to both our heritage and the safety of our community, continually adapting and improving to meet the challenges of each new era.
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