History Of The

West Harrison Independent Fire Co. #1

Prior to 1911 there was a fire company in West Harrison, formed by a group of civic minded citizens who were not only charter members, but in fact owned the fire department.  The company was called WEST HARRISON FIRE COMPANY.

In 1911 a charter was obtained from the State of New York for the formation of THE WEST HARRISON INDEPENDENT FIRE COMPANY #1.  A bond for $500.00 was obtained from a gentleman named William F. Pflug, to build a small firehouse on the southwest corner of Grant and Columbus Avenue.  Ward A. Vantassel Wood was president of the fire company and as such signed  the bond indenture.  Dances were held periodically to raise funds for an engine room and other needed apparatus.\

An arrangement was worked out with the town board, that the fire fighters would be paid for fire protection.  There was a group of elected fire commissioners who presided over the administration and purchase of fire equipment.

West Harrison Fire Company #1 Entered the machine age in 1914, with the purchase of a 1914 Steward Fire Truck. In 1928 the department added a Mack Fire Truck

The progressive need for more equipment obviously generated the need for more space. In 1936 the Town Board purchased fire department equipment from the owners (stock holders) constructed our present beautiful building and incorporated the fire district into the water district #1. The continued growth of our community ultimately necessitated a building addition, which was completed in 1972.\

To meet the changing fire equipment and fire fighting techniques required formal training for our members.  It now mandatory that our members attend courses at the Westchester Training Center.  We are proud to say our members are among the very best volunteers.

First Officers Of The West Harrison Fire Department:

Chief: Frank Jarvis

Assitant Chief: John G. Eich

Captain: George Dellgman

First Lieutenant: John E. Eich

Second Lieutenant: Frederick V. Eich