History of the Lower Providence Township Volunteer Fire Company

The Lower Providence Township Volunteer Fire Company (LPTVFC) has a rich history characterized by resilience, dedication, and a strong community spirit. Since its establishment, the Company has surmounted numerous obstacles, thanks to the collaboration of dedicated members and the unwavering support of the township's residents and businesses. Over the decades, the LPTVFC has evolved into a well-respected and essential institution that provides vital emergency services to the growing population of Lower Providence Township.

The Founding Years: 1945-1949

The seeds of the Lower Providence Township Volunteer Fire Company were planted in October 1945, when a group of local residents met at the Level Road School House to discuss the need for fire protection in the township. At that time, the township was home to fewer than 10,000 people spread over 15 square miles. The need for a local fire company was urgent, as the township's growing population and industrial base required prompt and reliable fire protection.

One of the key figures in these early discussions was John Shinners, who is credited with championing the cause of establishing a fire company in Lower Providence. Another notable individual was Samuel Heyser, who became the company’s first president, and Ira Robbins, who served as the first fire chief. Their leadership and determination were crucial in the early years, as the fledgling organization faced many challenges, including a lack of funding and opposition from some residents who believed that existing fire companies from neighboring townships could adequately serve the area.

Despite these hurdles, the determination of these early leaders and the community prevailed. In November 1945, Shinners donated $100 to the fire company, sparking additional contributions that brought the treasury's total to $180. One of the first purchases was a 1934 Brockway fire truck acquired from the West Manayunk Fire Company (now Belmont Hills Fire Company). In 1946, the LPTVFC ordered its first new piece of equipment, an International chassis outfitted by the Oren Fire Equipment Company of Roanoke, Virginia, at a total cost of around $18,000.

Building a Home: The Firehouse

Once the company had its apparatus, the next challenge was finding a permanent home for the equipment. Initially, the trucks were stored in temporary locations, but the need for a dedicated firehouse soon became apparent. The search for a suitable location was met with resistance from some residents, but the company pressed forward. After consulting with the Middle Department Association of Fire Underwriters, a location at the intersection of Ridge Pike and Eagleville Road was recommended. However, the land available was beyond the company’s financial means.

In a pivotal moment, John Shinners once again stepped forward, offering to sell the company one acre of land at the intersection of Ridge Pike and E. Mt. Kirk Avenue for $1. This generous offer allowed the company to proceed with plans for a firehouse. The building was constructed largely through the labor of volunteers, with several local businesses providing materials at cost or as donations. By February 1949, the firehouse was completed at a cost of $23,000, significantly less than the original estimate of $35,000.

Expansion and Growth: 1950s-1970s

As the township continued to grow, so did the needs of the fire company. In 1958, the LPTVFC established a second station in the Audubon area to serve the expanding population. The Audubon station, later dedicated to the memory of Assistant Chief Henry Rhoades in 1964, underwent major renovations in recent years, including the addition of a three-bay garage to accommodate more apparatus. While other planned stations never materialized, the Audubon station remains a vital part of the fire company’s operations.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the firehouse in Eagleville also underwent significant changes. In 1968, a major expansion added three new bays for apparatus and a hall capable of seating 200 people for events. The project, designed by architect Lyle Boulware, was completed at a cost of $90,000. Further expansions occurred in 1987, including the addition of a drive-through bay, two more apparatus bays, a second floor, and administrative offices.

Community Involvement and Fundraising

From its inception, the Lower Providence Township Volunteer Fire Company has relied heavily on community involvement and fundraising efforts to support its operations. One of the earliest fundraising events was a bingo and card party held in March 1946. Other activities included oyster and ham suppers, horse and dog shows, baseball ticket sales, and automobile raffles. However, the most significant fundraiser has always been the annual Firemen’s Fair.

The Firemen’s Fair began in the summer of 1946 and quickly grew to become one of the largest events of its kind in eastern Pennsylvania. Initially held on the grounds of the Superior Tube Company, the fair was later moved to the firehouse grounds in Eagleville. Over the years, the fair has seen many changes, including a reduction in duration from 11 days to six due to a township ordinance. Despite these changes, the fair remains a successful and highly anticipated event each year, drawing large crowds from the community and beyond.

In addition to the Firemen’s Fair, the company has engaged in other fundraising activities, including hoagie sales, chicken barbecues, and pig roasts. An annual fund drive also helps to raise the necessary funds to keep the fire company operational.

Equipment and Apparatus

Over the years, the LPTVFC has acquired and maintained a wide array of firefighting apparatus to meet the demands of the growing township. The company’s first purchase, a 1934 Brockway fire truck, was followed by several other important acquisitions, including a 1946 Oren pumper and a 1400-gallon GMC tanker built by the members themselves. The company also acquired a 1940 Ford with a Hale 500 GPM pump and several other vehicles over the decades.

In 1978, the company made a significant upgrade with the purchase of a Pierce pumper equipped with a 1750 GPM Waterous pump. This truck was renovated in 1991 and continued to serve the company for many years. Other notable additions include a 1989 Sutphen 1250 GPM pumper, a 1994 4-Guys pumper, and a 2000 KME Quint with a 75-foot aerial.

In more recent years, the company has added several modern vehicles, including a 2017 Sutphen engine with a 1500 GPM pump and a 2020 Pierce Ascendant 100-foot tower ladder, which remains in service today. The company’s apparatus is regularly updated and maintained to ensure that it is ready to respond to any emergency.

Communications and Technology

Effective communication is crucial in firefighting, and the LPTVFC has continually upgraded its systems to keep pace with modern technology. In 1957, the company began using two-way radios, allowing for communication between the firehouse and the apparatus. In 1993, the company switched from the county's low-band radio system to a new VHF system, which provided dedicated frequencies for uninterrupted communication. This system has proven vital in coordinating with other fire companies during mutual aid calls and has significantly improved communication between firefighters and officers on the scene.

A Legacy of Service

Since its founding, the Lower Providence Township Volunteer Fire Company has been led by dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly to serve the community. Over the years, 19 presidents and 14 fire chiefs have served the company, each contributing to its growth and success. In 1979, the company welcomed its first female active member, Jackie Rittenhouse, who now serves as vice president. The company has also embraced diversity in leadership, with women playing important roles in both firefighting and administrative capacities.

The LPTVFC has always prioritized the safety and well-being of its members. In 1947, the Lower Providence Township Volunteer Firemen's Relief Association was formed to provide insurance for members injured in the line of duty. Today, the association also funds training and equipment to ensure that firefighters have the resources they need to stay safe on the job.

Looking to the Future

As Lower Providence Township continues to grow and change, the Volunteer Fire Company remains committed to providing high-quality fire protection and emergency services to its residents. The company’s rich history is a testament to the power of community, volunteerism, and dedication. Through its ongoing fundraising efforts, commitment to modernization, and focus on safety and service, the LPTVFC will continue to play a vital role in the township for generations to come.