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ebook History of Watertown, Wisconsin
Watertown Fire Department
1847-1899 SECTION ON
HISTORY OF
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Additional
Segments 
1900-1999
Additional Segments 2000-2016
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Established
1857
150-year
history book now available in ebook format
Early badge [of John 'Put' [“Putt”] Reichardt (Reichert)
The Watertown Fire Department: 1857-2007
492 pages, $19.95 +
$7 s/h if applicable
The 150 year history of the Watertown Fire Department is now
available. This comprehensive reference
book is filled with images and details on the history of the department, fully
indexed and also documents the major fires that have
occurred in the city.
All proceeds derived
from the sale of this book go to benefit the Watertown Historical Society. Those wishing to order copies, which make
fine gifts, may do so by sending their check of this amount to the Watertown
Historical Society, 919 Charles St., Watertown, WI 53094.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
SUPPLEMENTAL
AND UPDATING INFORMATION
1847
12 10 HOEFFNER BREWERY FIRE
A new brewery of Mr. Jacob Hoeffner took fire early on Saturday
evening last. Upon the alarm being given,
there was a very prompt and general turn-out on the part of our citizens; but
before they had time to reach the spot, the flames were subdued without any
serious injury having been sustained.
If the cry of
"Fire!" is justly startling to a community having a large and
well-disciplined fire department, what should it be to one whose only means of
defense against the devouring elements consists in a few hooks and ladders and
a mere handful of rickety pails, without a regular organization for the use of
either? We must acknowledge that we have
the worst of fears for the safety of our village. As a general thing, our buildings are not
only of the most combustible materials, but probably nine-tenths of them have
no other stove chimneys, many of which are pierced in the garret by three or
four different pipes. The ventilated
condition of most of these garrets would admit of a spark being soon fanned
into a flame; and a flame once kindled, how could it be conquered, so long as
it found material upon which to riot, with no engine and no concerted effort to
battle it? We would call the attention
of our citizens to this subject.
We do hope they will not allow
winter to set in, without having taken additional measures to protect
themselves against a fire. WC Dec. 10, 1847
1853
07 09 HACKETT BLACKSMITH SHOP FIRE
On the morning of Thursday last,
a blacksmith shop occupied by Mr. Hackett in the 3d ward, opposite Owens Hotel,
took fire and was burnt to the ground with its contents. Mr. Hackett loses all his tools. This is a loss which he is ill able to bear,
as he is a poor man, having no means to replace them. We hope our citizens will show their
liberality to Mr. Hackett, in placing him in a position to do business
again. Watertown
Weekly Register
1855
05 20 Vulcan Iron Works
destroyed WD
07 12 Anson
Brewery fire WD
07 19 Slaughter
house fire J. H. & J. Martin
WD
1857 Watertown
Fire Department Established
1858
07 15 Rent for engine house paid Jacob
Jussen WD
11 18 Examine all stove pipes and buildings by
fire wardens WD
1859
01 27 &
05 05 Rent for engine room, paid F. Gebhardt,
$6.50, [Pioneer fire dept] engine room 1 month WD
05 26 Rent of engine room, contract with Peter
Seibel for WG
09 08 PIONEER ENGINE COMPANY NO. 1
Whereas, Edward
Johnson, James McHugh, John Campbell,
and their associates, have petitioned the Common Council to be formed into a Fire
Company, and also have the Fire Engine belonging to the city placed in their
charge [a pumper had been obtained in 1858], Therefore
Resolved, That the said
Edward Johnson, John Campbell, James McHugh, and their associates, be and they
are hereby formed into a Fire Company, to be known at No. 1, and that the
engine belonging to the city be delivered to the said Company. [Would become Pioneer Engine Company No.
1] WD
09 15 PIONEER ENGINE COMPANY
NO. 1
This is the name of the
new Fire Company that has recently been organized in this city,
and has now possession of the Engine [pumper]. The members are all active, strong, healthy
men, capable of rendering whatever services circumstances may demand . . . Last
Saturday evening the “machine” was brought out, and
judging from the admirable manner in which it was handled and worked, it can be
relied upon if an emergency should arise, when real duty will be required. We understand it is the intention of the
Company to attend the State Fair and compete with the second
class machines of this state.
Whether the Pioneer gets the prize or not, we are sure the “boys” will
make a good show, and if they do not win, will deserve success. WD
1860
01 12 Sanford fire; two stave dry houses
consumed WD
01 26 D.
Kusel for stove pipe for Fire Engine Co., $3.04 WD
02 09 First Annual Ball of Pioneer Engine
Co. No. 1 WD
02 16 Western Star Hotel destroyed by
fire WD
04 12 Dept officers chosen WD
05 17 Pioneer
Engine house; site selection WD
06 28 Exhibition for July Fourth celebration WD
07 19 Annual
election of Engine Company No. 1 WD
10 05 Pioneer Fire Company at County Fair at Jefferson WR
Western Star Hotel
Fire, 1860
1861
05 23 “Provisions for and encouragement of the fire
department,” subject of great importance and interest to the city, Mayor
William’s address. WD
06 06 An
Act to Incorporate Fire Companies / State of WI, represented in Senate and
Assembly WD
1862
10 16 SUIT REGARDING PLAN FOR ENGINE HOUSE
The
Mayor informed the Council that H. Steger had brought suit
against the city for the amount claimed by him for plan of an Engine
House, which claim was rejected at the last meeting. On motion of Ald. Brown the Mayor was
authorized to settle this matter with the plaintiff and to defend the suit, as
he may deem, in the interest of the city.
WD
12 11 FIREMEN’S FESTIVAL
The
members of Engine Company No. 1 propose to give a festival on the evening of
January 1st, 1863, the proceeds of which will be appropriated for the benefit
of the Fire Department of this city. An
effort is now being made to place this company on a more efficient footing and
make it capable of doing any service it may be called upon to render the
community. This is an object worthy of
every encouragement and all are equally concerned in having at least one Fire
Company ready and able to do its duty in emergencies where the property of any
one may be exposed to instant destruction from the devouring flames. We hope our citizens generally will display
their liberality on this occasion and show that they take an active interest in
the success of this effort. WD
1863
01 01 FIREMEN’S BALL
This
evening Engine Company No. 1 gives a public ball at the Howard House, on the
west side of the river. We understand
that ample preparations have been made for a gay party and nothing will be
wanting to render the occasion pleasant and delightful. As the proceeds of this festival will be for
the benefit of the Fire Department and all have an interest in its efficiency
and success, we hope this effort will be liberally sustained by our citizens
and the attendance general. WD
02 19 FIRE WOOD FOR ENGINE HOUSE
Common
Council Proceedings: By Ald. Brown,
account of B. O’Bryne for fire wood for engine house, $2. WD
1864
01 21 FIREMEN’S BALL
Monday
evening Engine Company No. 1 will give their annual ball at Cole’s Hall.
They propose to devote the proceeds of the entertainment to the relief
of the suffering and destitute in this city.
The organization deserves well of our citizens and we hope a large and
gay assembly will be present. All who
attend will not only be able to pass a pleasant evening but will at the same
time contribute to a benevolent object.
WD
03 10 JARVIS-QUIGLEY FIRE
Last
Monday morning, between 6 and 7 o’clock, a fire broke out in the wooden Jarvis-Quigley building on Main Street,
located between the Democrat block and the Bank of Watertown block, and
occupied by J. D. Jarvis as a grocery store.
The flames spread rapidly and in a few minutes
extended to an adjoining building, occupied by M. Quigley as a cabinet ware
room, and quickly consumed them both. WD
03 24 PETITION FOR FIRE COMPANY, ENTRUSTED WITH ENGINE
Common
Council Proceedings: The Clerk read a
communication of E. Johnson by which he delivers over to the Council the fire
engine, as one of the members of the old Company.
By
Ald. Fischer, petition of C. Meyer and 51 other inhabitants of this city to be
formed into a Fire Company and to be entrusted with the City Engine, which was,
on motion of Ald. Prentiss, referred to a special Committee of three, with
instructions to report at the next meeting.
The Mayor appointed as such Committee Ald. Beckman, Dennis and Fischer.
On
motion of Ald. Dennis the Mayor was authorized to deliver the engine
temporarily to proper persons until the new Company is legally organized. WD
04 07 AN ENGINE HOUSE A PUBLIC BENEFIT
We
are glad to observe that the Common Council has arrived at the conclusion that
an Engine House, conveniently located at some central point on Main Street,
would be a public benefit. That is one
of the improvements that ought to be made, heavy as the taxes are likely to be
this year. Sufficient
attention ought to make it available and efficient in the time of danger. If we can have but one Engine Company let us
have that full, strong and ready – adequately equipping it and liberally
supplying with every facility necessary to render it serviceable. Any other course is folly and money thrown
away. Neither will it be wise to wait
until we are effectually burned out before we act. We now want the means of preventing such a
calamity. WD
04 07 PETITIONERS FOR A NEW FIRE COMPANY
Ald.
Beckmann of the special committee appointed to confer with the petitioners for
a new fire company made a report by resolution, which was amended by Ald.
Prentiss and adopted.
Resolutions
as adopted:
Resolved,
That the Petitioners and others joining them, as soon as they shall have
organized themselves into a company, [and] selected their officers, shall
constitute and be known as Fire Company No. 1, and take in charge and into
their custody the fire engine of this city and be responsible for its
management and safe keeping.
Resolved,
That it is expedient to build a Fire Engine House in some suitable location
near Main Street, within the city, and also to purchase necessary hooks and
ladders for the use of the city, and to build necessary reservoirs for water if
the same are practicable and can be built at the expense of the wards, within
which the
same may be located. WD
04 14 ENGINE COMPANY ORGANIZED; ELECTION OF
OFFICERS
Alderman
Beckmann moved to amend the rules by adding to the standing Committee a
Committee on the Fire Department, to consist of three aldermen. Carried.
The Clerk read a communication from the new Fire Company in which they
state that the Company is fully organized by the election of the following
officers:
Foreman – Joseph Miller;
Assistant Foreman – Frederick Herman;
Engineer – Franz Gebhardt;
Secretary – Charles A. Colonias;
Treasurer – Emil Lehman;
Steward – Michael Seyfert. WD
04 28 CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS OF PIONEER COMPANY
No. 1
Ald.
Pfundheller, Chairman of Committee on the Fire Department, introduced the
constitution and by-laws of Pioneer Company No. 1, which were read by the Clerk
and approved, but the plan for the Engine House was referred
back to the committee with instructions for specifications and a
location for the same. WD
05 05 NEWLY ORGANIZED ENGINE COMPANY DEMOS PUMPER
Last
Monday afternoon the newly organized Engine Company brought out their machine
and gave it a trial. They showed that it
is capable of doing first-rate work when in good order
and well managed. They handled it with
skill and activity, throwing floods of water on the roofs of the highest
buildings within their reach. Engine
Company No. 1 is now full and composed of strong, able-bodied men, who will
render effectual service when aid shall be needed. They should receive the favor and
encouragement of all our citizens. WD
05 12 PIONEER Co. No. 1 PROPOSED SITE FOR AN
ENGINE HOUSE
Report
by Ald. Pfundheller:
The
Committee of the Fire Department beg leave to report that they have examined
the different locations which Pioneer Co. No. 1 proposed for a site for an
Engine House, and that in their opinion, the west end of East Washington Street
is the best adapted for the purpose.
They have also received the estimates of the cost of building the Engine
House, according to the plan of Charles M. Ducasse, and offer the following
resolution:
Resolved,
That an Engine House be built according to the plans and specifications of C.
M. Ducasse, and that the Clerk shall advertise for sealed proposals for
building the same.
Resolved,
That the Engine House be built in the center of the west end of East Washington
Street, in the First ward [west side of
intersection of S. First and Market streets, adjacent to the river]. WD
06 02 CHARBENEAU PLAN FOR ENGINE HOUSE
Resolved,
That the plans of L. Charbeneau for an Engine House be adopted and that the
Clerk is hereby directed to advertise that he will receive sealed proposals for
building said Engine House according to the plans and specifications of said L.
Charbeneau.
Notice
is hereby given that the undersigned will receive sealed proposals for building
an Engine House [Fire Dept.] on [South] First Street [and Market], in the First
ward of the city of Watertown, block 12, according to the plan and
specification of L. Charbeneau now on file in my office, said proposals to be
delivered in my office within ten days from the publication of this notice. Gustavus Werlich, City Clerk. WD
Also 06 02 ENGINE HOUSE LOCATION
Ald.
Pfundheller called for the reading of the resolutions introduced by him at the
last meeting in regard to building an Engine House,
which were read by the clerk.
Ald.
Rogan introduced an agreement of Messrs. Huger and Rusch to deed to the city
thirty feet in the center of O’Connell Street in the Fourth ward if the city vacates said street
for the purpose of building an Engine House thereon; also the written opinion
of D. Hall, Esq., to the effect that if the city vacates the street, the
adjoining lot owners can give a good title for that part of the street and
accompanied by the following resolution which he offered as a substitute.
Resolved,
That the proposition of Messrs. Huger & Rusch donating a part of O’Connell
Street for the purpose of an Engine House be accepted and that the Mayor be and he is hereby authorized to procure a title deed to
the land named in said proposition.
Resolved,
That so much of O’Connell Street as lays between Water
Street and Rock River be and the same is hereby vacated.
The
motion to substitute the foregoing resolutions was lost . . .
. On motion the resolutions introduced by Ald. Pfundheller were taken up
separately.
Resolved
that the Committee of Finance be instructed to purchase in the name of the city
from Joseph Lindon the North 39 feet of lot 2, block 12, in the First ward, for the price of $15 per foot
front, for the purpose of building an Engine House thereon. Adopted.
WD
07 28 THE NEW ENGINE HOUSE
The
plans and specifications of the new Engine House, in the First Ward, have been
prepared by Louis Charbeneau and the work, we understand, will soon be
commenced. The building is to be of
brick, twenty-six feet eight inches front by forty-two feet deep and two
stories high, with a basement.
The
basement is to be eight feet between joists and the first story thirteen feet and
the second story twelve feet high in front and nine feet in the rear. This will give a structure of fair
dimensions, with ample room for all the purposes for which it is intended. Its location will be central and
convenient.
The
Engine is now in the best working order, the Fire Department well organized,
and the completion of a large and substantial house will put the company in a
good condition for efficient and prompt service at any moment. Our citizens should extend to this
indispensable organization all the encouragement necessary to make it fully
equal to any emergency that may arise to call forth its efforts. All the members are ready and willing to do
their duty as firemen and every occasion will see them rendering important and
essential aid in saving property from destruction by the devouring flames. WD
08 18 CERTIFICATES OF MEMBERSHIP
Alderman
Pfundheller presented the petition of Pioneer [Fire] Co. No. 1 for certificates
of membership. On motion the prayer was granted and the clerk directed to issue them under seal of
the city. WD
08 18 CONTRACT FOR BUILDING ENGINE HOUSE
Alderman
Pfundheller, chairman of Committee on the Fire Department, reported in favor of
entering into contract with A. Bornschein for building the Engine House. On motion of Ald. Rogan the report was
recommitted for the purpose of ascertaining whether a cheaper plan could be
adopted. WD
08 18 OIL, SUNDRIES AND LANTERNS
The
following accounts were introduced against the city General Fund: Edward Johnson, oil and sundries for [Fire]
Engine Co., $6.44, D. and F. Kusel for lanterns, $7. WD
10 06 REVENUE STAMP ON FIREMAN’S CERTIFICATE
By
Ald. Phundheller: Resolution, directing the
Clerk to put, at expense of the city, a 5-cent Revenue Stamp on each Fireman’s
Certificate. Resolution laid upon the
table. WD
12 15 VAN ALSTINE HOUSE FIRE
A
dwelling house belonging to Mr. J. B. Van Alstine
caught fire on the 7th and came pretty near burning
up. Mr.
August Fuermann was promptly on hand with his rotary engine and by his
efforts and activity put out the flames before much damage was done. Engine Company No. 1 showed their good will
by coming out, but Fuermann’s rotary had already finished the business. Mr. VanAlstine’s loss is covered by insurance
in the Aetna. WD
1865
01 19 PIONEER STORE FIRE
Sunday night, the 15th of January, at about midnight,
a fire broke out in the wooden building, known as
the Pioneer Store, on the southwest corner of Main and Second streets. The structure was totally
destroyed by the winter blaze. The loss was total as there was no
insurance on either building or contents.
At the time of the fire the building was owned by Mrs. Cordelia Gilman
and had been occupied by Henry Vaudel as a saloon. The adjoining building [115 E Main], owned and
occupied by Frederick & Henry Meyer
as a shoe store, was considerably damaged and would have been also lost if
it were not for the strenuous efforts of citizens. Jesse Moulton and M. Welsh [Welch] both
removed the contents from their grocery stores in the two buildings to the west
[113 and 111 E Main?], as they were also threatened at the time.
As is too often the
case, the Water Witch proved to be of little value. After it had been pulled to the scene it once
again was found to be out of order. And
once again Brewmaster
Joseph Bursinger’s force pump was hurriedly
conveyed to the scene of the fire and performed well in arresting the
flames. In fact, had it not been for
Bursinger’s pump, the loss of business property and inventory on Main Street
would have been much more serious and extensive. On display, Pioneer Engine No. 1 is splendid,
but when real service is required, for some reason or other, it is never ready
when most wanted and generally proves to be a nuisance when around.
It is high time this city had an efficient and
reliable Fire Department. Some hour this city may
pay dearly for the continued neglect of so necessary a precaution against the
desolation and ruin of the devouring flames.
It is far better to be wise, active and fully prepared in season.
The destruction of this
building removed one of the landmarks of the city. The Pioneer Store, as it was called, was the
first business establishment built in Watertown. It had been erected in the summer of 1841 by
Luther A. and John W. Cole, who came here soon after Timothy Johnson, the first
settler of Watertown, took up his permanent residence here in 1836. The two Cole brothers cut the timber in the
surrounding forests and sized the timber so to construct their wood frame
store. The labor was strenuous
and much was involved by these two pioneers to finish and then furnish the
first place of commerce in the settlement, situated in the midst of the
surrounding wilderness. The inventory of
the Pioneer Store consisted of a stock of necessities, goods and
groceries. It was the place for citizens
and area farmers to patronize and at the same time exchange the latest news and
gossip. To be sure, at the time, it was
also the only place for conducting such exchanges. WD
02 09 NEW ENGINE HOUSE: LINDON PROPERTY, NOT
CHAPMAN’S
Common Council:
Resolved that all resolutions heretofore passed at this Council, with
reference to the purchase by the city of certain property on Main Street owned
by William Chapman, be and the same are hereby rescinded.
Resolved that a committee of three members of this
Council be appointed by his Honor, the Mayor, for the purpose of receiving
proposals for an Engine House and doing the work thereon; the Engine House
aforesaid, to be erected upon the lot purchased by the city of Mayor Lindon and
as near as practicable, in accordance with the plan furnished by L. Charbeneau,
provided that the expense of said building complete, exclusive of the lot,
shall not exceed $2,500. Adopted.
Resolved that the special Committee, authorized to
receive proposals for doing the work and furnished the materials for a new
Engine House, be empowered to contract in the name of the city for such
materials as they deem necessary.
Adopted. WD
02 23 KELLOGG PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY FIRE
On the evening of February
19th fire was discovered in a large two-story wooden building standing on
the southwest corner of Main and First streets.
The fire originated on the second story room occupied
by J. D. Kellogg as a Photograph Gallery.
The flames increased rapidly and in a short time the upper portion of
the building was in ablaze. All of the photographer’s property and stock was lost.
The first floor level of the
structure was occupied by a Mrs. Stallman as a millinery store. Most of her stock was removed during the course of the fire.
Along First Street, adjoining the corner building,
stood another wooden building, belonging to Henry Graves, and occupied by F.
Meyer as a grocery store, which was badly damaged and rendered nearly
worthless.
The next building along the Main Street side was owned
and occupied by E. Sweeney as a grocery store, which escaped damage, as did the
next owned by John Luber. The next
building is a brick block, owned and operated by Joseph Salick, as a jewelry
store. As a matter of prudence his stock
was packed up and removed from the premises.
The upper story of this block was occupied by Mr. B. Wortkotter as a
dwelling and all of his belongings were removed.
There being no organized Fire Company, the citizens
brought out the engine and this time the water witch
performed well. It was given credit for
confining the fire to the building in which it started. If the engine had not been in good condition the fire would have
been much more extensive and disastrous and there is no telling how far its
ravages might have spread. WD
02 23 WANTED
- A FIRE DEPARTMENT
[same date] The most urgent and necessary want of
this city is a well-organized Fire Department.
The reasons which make this important must be apparent to all. Here is a populous city, liable at any moment
to be desolated by fire, with a single [volunteer] fire company to arrest the
progress of the flames, and no means of protection except the neglected engine,
with nobody to work or take care of it.
We are destitute of all other implements, such as
hooks, ladders, ropes, axes, to help in pulling down or removing burning and
exposed buildings. Such a state of
things ought not to be permitted to exist one hour longer than it is absolutely necessary to furnish these facilities.
A single fire, which may break out at any moment in
the day or night, may inflict a greater loss than the whole expense of
procuring all the implements needed to save our stores and houses from certain
destruction. We have been fortunate so
far in subduing the few fires that have recently taken place, but we cannot
always be sure that the weather will be favorable, the winds calm, and common
efforts successful. The best is to be
fully prepared for the worst dangers that may threaten us.
We trust our city authorities will act in this matter
without delay. Though heavily burdened
with taxes of all kinds, we believe our citizens are ready and willing to incur
any reasonable outlay to remedy this evil and place themselves in a condition
of tolerable security.
One good Engine Company and one good Hook and Ladder
Company are the least force that should constitute our Fire Department at the
present time. Now we have neither of
these agencies to defend us from conflagrations.
The
Common Council ought to give its attention to this subject immediately. We can only talk. They can act to the purpose and do what ought
to be done.
02 23 MARSHAL TAKES POSSESSION
[same date] Common Council Proceedings: The Clerk read the report of the Marshal in which
he states that he took possession of the following articles belonging to the
Fire Department: 2 oil cans, 2 lamps, 2
speaking trumpets, 5 wrenches, 1 water pail and 1 stove.
03 02 REGARDING KELLOGG GALLERY FIRE OF 19th (see 02
23 entry above)
A CARD – At the time of the entire destruction of my
photograph gallery by the fire of the 19th, I had engaged many unfinished
pictures, a large proportion of which had been paid for. I would say to my patrons that I will repay
the money at any time, or if they will wait a few days, until I can get new
rooms furnished and in working order, I will retake the pictures, and so
fulfill my obligations at the earliest possible moment. J. D. Kellogg, Watertown WD
03 02 FIRE LIMITS
[same date] It shall not be lawful for any person or
persons, company, association or corporation to build, erect, construct, or
cause to be built, erected or constructed, upon any of the lots, pieces or
parcels of ground named in the first section of this ordinance, any building or
buildings of any kind whatever which shall not be made of stone, brick or other
materials which are deemed and considered proof against fire.
As the old wooden buildings one after another
disappear from Main Street, either from decay or fire, they ought not to be
replaced by structures of the same inflammable material. To prevent this, and as far as possible
obviate the present liability to a constant succession of fires, the Common
Council ought to pass an ordinance making [marking] out certain limits within
which no wooden building shall in the future be erected. This is usually done in all cities after they
have reached a certain state of growth, and the time has come when this step
should be taken by us, as a protection against disastrous calamities from fire.
If this course is adopted, Main Street in a
few years will have a much better appearance than it now has. As the old and dilapidated buildings, which
did very well ten or fifteen years ago, are gradually removed, they will be
replaced by elegant brick blocks, and we shall have as fine a looking business
street as can be seen in any other interior city of the state. If we are going ahead at all, let us do the
right way.
The above was written and put in type last
week, but necessarily crowded out until this week. We now call the attention of our citizens to
the draft of an ordinance establishing fire limits in this city, which we
publish elsewhere. The object of making
the proposed ordinance public is to get a general expression on the subject and
enable those interested to learn its provisions. We think all must concur in the opinion that
some such measure as this should be adopted here without delay. Those who would like to make suggestions or
changes now have an opportunity to do so, before the Common Council disposes of
the subject. WD
03 02 ORDINANCE REGARDING DOWNTOWN BUILDINGS
[same date] It shall not be lawful for any person or
persons, company, association or corporation to build, erect, construct, or
cause to be built, erected or constructed, upon any of the lots, pieces or
parcels of ground named in the first section of this ordinance, any building or
buildings of any kind whatever which shall not be made of stone, brick or other
materials which are deemed and considered proof against fire.
Sheds not exceeding twelve feet in height at the peak
or highest part, and privies not exceeding ten square feet and ten feet in
height at the peak, may be constructed of wood . . . All depositories of ashes
within and without the fire limits shall be built of brick or other fire proof
material, without wood in any part thereof.
In case of, and during the continuance of a fire, no intoxicating liquors shall be allowed
among the firemen, or be brought on the ground for any purpose, except the
same shall have been ordered by the Mayor; and any person or persons furnishing
any intoxicating liquor or drink to the firemen during a fire, except as herein
provided, shall forfeit and pay a penalty of not less than five nor more than
twenty dollars for every offence, to be collected in like manner as other
penalties and fines under the charter of the city and the laws of this State. WD
03 23 FIRE LIMITS
Common Council Proceedings. -
Amendments to an ordinance entitled “An Ordinance prescribing FIRE
LIMITS and establishing regulations relative to fires in the City of
Watertown.” Ordinance was read the third
time and passed as amended by an affirmative vote of all the aldermen
present. WD
03 23 WORK ON HOSE CART
[same date] Common Council Proceedings. - A
report in favor of allowing the account of F. Gerbech and F. Harder for work on
[Fire Dept.] hose cart and a report of allowing the account of Hill & Taylor
for work on engine, $62.35. WD
03 30 PAINTING OF HOOKS & LADDERS
Resolved, that the City Marshal
be directed to cause the ladders procured for the Fire Department to be painted
and to procure four suitable hooks for said Fire Department, if not already
provided, and that the word “Watertown” be painted on said hooks and ladders,
and that the resolution heretofore passed on this subject is hereby
repealed. Adopted. Common Council Proceedings. WD
04 06 PLANS FOR ENGINE HOUSE
Alderman Moak called for the report of the Committee
of the Fire Department upon the selection of L. Charbeneau for plans of the
engine house but the committee was not ready to report. WD
05 04 COMMITTEE FOR NEW ENGINE HOUSE
Ald. Prentiss moved that the committee appointed by
the former council to contract for the building of the Engine House be
reappointed by the present council, said committee consisting of T. Prentiss
and A. Stein. Motion carried. WD
05 04 CONTRACT FOR NEW ENGINE HOUSE
The contract for building a new Engine House on First
Street in the 1st ward has been taken by Mr. A. Bornschien and we understand
the work will be commenced this week.
The dimensions of the building will be 28 by 32 feet and three stories
high. In the basement a strong and safe
lock-up is to be fitted up for the use of the city. The style of architecture is neat and elegant
and when completed the Engine House will make a fair appearance. We are glad there is a certainty this long
needed work is to be done without further delay. WD
05 18 NEW ENGINE HOUSE, FIRST STREET
Mr. A. Bornschien, the contractor for building the new
Engine House on First Street, has commenced work and is laying the foundation
of the building. He intends to carry it
forward to completion without delay. WD
09 28 CITY LOCK-UP, NEW ENGINE HOUSE
The new Engine House on First Street is nearly completed and
will soon be ready for occupation. The
next thing will be to organize a full and efficient company to take charge of
the engine, keep it in working order and use the pleasant rooms that have been prepared
for the members. The basement of the
Engine House has been fitted up as a city lock-up and we hope those whose
conduct entitles them to fill it will be furnished with proper certificates of
reception by the Justices before whom such cases are brought. The knowledge of this fact will have a
salutary tendency to prevent rowdyism in the streets and make those disposed to
be noisy and offensive more quiet in their
deportment. WD
09 28 CITY LOCK-UP, A GOOD SIGN
The day on which the last fair and cattle show was held in
this city, Justice Ducasse fined no less than five disturbers of the peace, the
proceeds of which goes into the city general fund. Hereafter, if this remedy should not be sufficient to prevent quarrels and brawls in the street, the
peace officers might add a brief sojourn [at the new jail] in the basement of
the new Engine House, which would furnish an opportunity for reflection and
reform on the part of those provided with such apartments at the public
expense. Let us have an orderly and
peaceful city and have it understood that all who willfully violate law and
decency must suffer the consequences of their folly. WD
09 28 CITY LOCK-UP, A CAUTION FOR THE BOYS
There has been considerable complaint this summer caused by
the raids of boys in orchards and gardens.
This is a kind of mischief the boys had better stop now. The new lock-up is finished and ready for the
reception of those who are caught in such acts.
Heretofore there has been no way of punishing such offences, except by sending
the convicted to jail at Jefferson. The
plunders of fruit and vegetables can now be accommodated with lodgings for a
few days at a time under the Engine House, and if they do not stop their
depredations some of them will very likely be furnished with rooms in the city
lock-up, which they will find very secure, quiet and disgraceful. WD
10 05 ARTESIAN WELLS, BRICKS AND POND FOR NEW
ENGINE HOUSE
Common Council Proceedings:
Against General Fund, M. Cummings $9 for work at Engine House, P. C.
Quentmeyer $465.46 for brick for Engine House.
Petition of F. O’Rourke and others for artesian wells. Referred to Committee on Fire Department.
Resolved, That the Mayor is hereby requested and instructed
to cause without delay, a public pond to be erected in the rear of the Engine
House in the First ward. WD
11 30 HAVE ENGINE HOUSE, ENGINE . . . . BUT NO FIRE COMPANY
We now have an Engine House, a good Engine, but no Fire
Company. Steps ought to be taken
immediately to supply this deficiency.
We are approaching the season when fires are most likely to occur and we should have some efficient means of putting
them out if the flames should break out in our midst. The importance of this subject must be
evident to all. After an expense of
several thousand dollars, as things now are, the city is no better off than it
was before this outlay was made. There
ought to be public spirit and enterprise enough to furnish us with a strong and
well organized Engine Company and we hope those who
feel any interest in this matter will act promptly. We do not know how soon we shall want all the
means we can command to save ourselves from ruin. WD
11 30 PAYMENT FOR FIRE BELL; REPAIR OF ENGINE
[same date] Common Council Proceedings: Resolved, That an
order be drawn on the City General Fund in favor of William Wilson, to the
amount of thirty dollars, to be in full for the fire bell. Adopted.
Ald. Dennis moved to instruct the Committee of the Fire Department to
have the fire engine thoroughly repaired.
Carried. WD
12 14 LAMPS, GRATING AND SCREWS
Common Council Proceedings:
Resolved, That the Marshal cause the gas lamps to be removed from the
posts from which they belong and placed in the Engine House for safe
keeping. Resolved, That the Marshal is
hereby required to remove from the old Engine House the iron grating belonging
to the city and take possession of the same and that he also recover
the two screws belonging to the city. WD
1868
05 07 DEPARTMENT SHAMEFULLY NEGLECTED
Mayor’s Inaugural Speech: “Our Fire Department
has been shamefully neglected . . . “
05 27 PIONEER COMPANY No. 1 OFFICERS ELECTED
A meeting of Pioneer Company No. 1 was held at the Engine
House, on Wednesday evening last. The
meeting proceeded to the election of the following officers:
Foreman — T. Racek, Jr.
1st Asst. — G. Henze.
2d Asst. — C. Ceck.
Engineer — L. Jahnke.
Treasurer — J. Weber.
Secretary — W. H. Rohr.
Steward — F. Eberville.
Hose Capt. — A. Benkerdorf.
Asst. Capt. — L. Kehr.
The above names give us the assurance that we have at last
one good reliable fire company established, and now would it not be a good move
for some other portion of our citizens to organize another company.
There is nothing like emulation among fire companies for the
advancement of a thorough fire department.
Let us have a rival company by all means,
if for nothing more than for the fun of the thing. The Watertown News, 05 27 1868
1869
THE BADGER
STATE HOOK AND LADDER COMPANY No. 1
Organized on April 17, 1869. First officers: Foreman, John
Reichardt; First Assistant, Nic Bruegger; Second Assistant, Fred Stylow;
Secretary, Gustav Barthmann; Treasurer, Carl Goeldner. The H&L Company vehicle occupied a
portion of the South First Street engine house, alongside the pumper.
1870
10 26 GAS
SUPPLIED TO ENGINE HOUSE and Lockup on S. First St.
12 28 EMPIRE
MILL FIRE
One of the
most serious calamities that ever befell our city occurred on the night of 28th
of Dec. 1870, by the total destruction by fire of
the Empire Flouring Mills, on the west side of the river, together with its
contents, including a large amount of flour and wheat.
Immediately on the
north side, and within 40 feet of the mill is situated the Woolen Factory, owned by Mr. Daniel Jones,
and containing valuable machinery and stock, and adjoining this building is the
Sash and Door Manufactory of Mr. G. B. Lewis. As a precautionary measure against fire, Mr.
Smith had surrounded his mill, which was a frame building, with brick walls,
and the saving of the Woolen Factory is mainly due to this fore thought on the
part of Mr. Smith for all endeavors to save this building would have been
unavailing had not the north wall of the mill stood as a barricade between the
intense heat and angry flames and the Woolen Factory.
While the flames
were at the height of their fury, there occurred an appalling accident, which
carried dismay and consternation to all hearts.
Mr. Nathaniel Blanchard, while on the roof
off his own mill, on the opposite side of the river, endeavoring to protect it
from flying cinders, lost his foot-hold and fell a distance of about forty
feet, striking on the ice, breaking both legs and arms, and otherwise injuring him
so fatally, that he survived only twelve hours. Wttn Rep, 01 04 1871
1871
GLUE
FACTORY FIRE
Glue factory [former Plank Road Brewery]
burns to the ground
Memory 1871, RISING MOON MISTAKEN FOR FIRE - Letter from Bainville,
Montana: Nice Bruegger, formerly of this
city, writes from Bainville, Montana: “There is a saying that history
repeats itself and it seems that it is true.
It corresponds to what occurred, if I remember rightly, in 1871, when
the fire bell in Watertown called out the fire department and by the time the
boys assembled it was found that the moon rising was the cause of the
alarm. On Feb. 10th inst. there were two
liquor[ed] drummers at this place and it was getting towards spook time here
when the editor of our weekly paper adjourned by himself and after he got
outside the saloon where the drummers had been “setting ‘em up,” and took a
survey of the planets he discovered something—he rushed back to the saloon and
said “Boys, Mondak is on fire” (15 miles away).
Mr. Doyle, the saloon keeper, with the rest of the boys, ran out. Mr. Doyle said it is Mr. Lundquist’s barn, 2
1/2 miles from town, and went to the next saloon and ordered someone to go and
call Mr. Lundquist, who is running a general store here. And, lo and behold, it was the moon rising,
as in the case in good old Watertown way back in 1871. Am well and doing well. Best wishes to all old friends.” WG of 03 05 1909
DROUGHT OF
1871
PRELUDE TO
PESHTIGO FIRE OF OCTOBER 8, 1871, AND GREAT CHICAGO FIRE
09 06 LOW WATER.--The amount of water in Rock
River at the present time is considerably on the decrease. Water has not flowed
over the dam for several weeks, but all summer the water has been unusually
high. Fall rains are now needed to bring
it back to its proper head. Our mill owners for the first time this season are
beginning to feel the want of water to run the machinery with. WR
10 08 THE PESHTIGO
FIRE
The Peshtigo Fire was a forest fire
that took place on October 8, 1871 in and around Peshtigo, Wisconsin. It was a firestorm that caused the most
deaths by fire in United States history, with estimated deaths of around 1,500
people, possibly as many as 2,500.
Occurred on the same day as the more famous Great Chicago Fire. An Eyewitness
Account. The Great Fires of
1871. Wikipedia article.
10 11 NINE FIRES IN THE WOODS. Jefferson County is not escaping from the
effects of the present extreme drought which is working such terrible
devastation all over the country, and especially in different portions of
Wisconsin. Early last week a fire broke out in a swamp near Waitsville, in the town of Farmington, which
spread with great rapidity, increasing as it moved forward and carrying
everything before it. The fire threatened the destruction of the mill property
of Wait, Wood & Co. and at one time over one hundred were engaged in
stopping the progress of the flames. The fire is now under subjection, and no
immediate apprehension is felt for the safety of the property. A fire from a
burning marsh passed over the farm of Mr. Fred. Schulte, living some three
miles east of the city, on the old Milwaukee road, Sunday afternoon last, and
so dry and tinder-like was everything in its path that nothing could be done to
stop the progress of the flames, the high wind blowing at the time carrying
them forward with great velocity, until the dwelling, stables and granery were
reached by the devouring element, and the buildings were soon burned to the
ground, despite all exertions to save them . . . WR
10 25 DANGER YET--Notwithstanding the recent
rains everything is as parched and dry as tinder again, and great danger of
fires still exists. Many persons appear
to be wholly indifferent as to the dry condition of things around them, and by
their extreme carelessness are placing property in great danger. We see that
some parties are burning rubbish, which at a time like this is extremely
dangerous and should be strictly prohibited.
The use of firearms should be dispensed with, for the time being, as in
the present combustible condition of things hunters are apt to start fires in
the woods and on marshes, from shooting.
The setting of fires by
blacksmiths should be done with the greatest caution, and in fact every fire,
whether about a dwelling or place of business should be watched closely until
the present critical period is over. Let all be on their guard at this time,
and carefully scrutinize their premises that no
accident endangering property may occur. There would be but little chance to
stop a fire should it break out anywhere in our city at present, and therefore
it is the duty of everybody to practice the utmost vigilance and
precaution. WR
11 01 RAIN
A copious rain commenced falling Tuesday morning, which finally turned
into snow, and continued long enough to thoroughly saturate the earth, and
prepared the ground well for ploughing, very little of which has been done In this vicinity this fall, owing to the extreme
drought. WR
11 15 RIVER RISING
Because of the recent rains there has been a rise of several inches of
water in the river. The ground is now in
good condition for ploughing, and a few weeks fine weather will give our
farmers an opportunity of finishing it.
WR
1872 Habhagger
Brewery fire
1873 Parade cancelled by tornado 07
04
1875 Bay
State House fire
1876
Phoenix
Fire Co, No. 2. Organized 1876. 127 N Water St
Charles Kerr, charter member, fire engine
driver
08 24 Fire at ice house of Exchange
Hotel WD Pioneer and Phoenix respond; reservoir on
Second St
08 24 Proceedings
of a regular meeting of the Board of Street Commissioners, held August 21, 1876
. . . Motion by Com. Woodard; That the City Treasurer is hereby requested to
loan to the city general fund from the school fund, until January 1, next, the
sum of $310 for the purpose of purchasing a site for an engine house on the
West side of Rock River, and paying freight for the Silsby fire engine. Motion carried. WD
c.1876 Alarms sounded with stick and old tin pan
by Charley Huber Sr
1877
Washington’s Birthday in 1877; second
appearance of Phoenix Co. clad in new uniforms; S. M. Eaton having the contract
for hauling the “Phoenix steamer,” and Mr. Mannegold of the east side had a
similar arrangement with the city for hauling the “Pioneer” to fires WG, 02 26 1909
Fierce fire broke out in a warehouse
at the C.&N.W.Ry. depot and spread rapidly
WG, 02 26 1909
The officers and engineers of engine
companies in 1877 WG, 02 26 1909
c.1877 ?
1878
01 19 BETZ MILL FIRE
The most disastrous
fire known here for some years occurred on Monday night in the burning of an
elevator owned by John Betz, with the adjacent row of buildings, and located
near the depot on the C. M. & St. P. road.
The buildings were like tinder and the fire spread rapidly, licking up
in its way two freight cars of the C. &. N. W. road and loaded with coal
and lumber, and which belonged to Hamlin & Ford. The old warehouse and belonging to Mrs. C.
Sneer is included in the ruins and was insured for
$800. Mr. Betz held but $2000
insurance. The loss, whatever it
may be, is deplorable, so far as the parties are concerned, but the riddance to
Watertown is glorious. The buildings
were an eyesore to the town and while all sympathize fully in the loss sustained they realize equally well — “It is an ill wind
that blows nobody any good.” The fire
was unquestionably the work of an incendiary and there is not the slightest question but we have parties among us engaged in such
pursuit. The frequency of fires in
isolated places goes strongly to strengthen such conviction and not
withstanding we have two properly organized companies with the best steamers
constructed, it behooves all to keep watch and ward. As usual our gallant firemen behaved nobly on
the occasion and did all possible to subdue the flames. Harger Times
Cross Reference:
John Betz, grain dealer, corner 5th and RR: Watertown City Directory of 1875-76
08 14 Article
about a fire. Firemen complain about the
fact that there is not enough hose on the engines to reach the proper
distances. WD
c.1870s
-- -- GLOBE MILL FIRST TO SOUND ALARM OF FIRE
The hum of machinery in a country mill gave off soft music in the
small hours of the night, bringing assurance to the timid that men were awake
and about their business. Its low pitched whistle was the FIRST TO SOUND THE ALARM OF
FIRE, summoning the volunteers to their duties.
It stood sentinel over the sleeping town. "The Globe Milling Company, Watertown, Wisconsin,
1845-1945."
1880
FRED
NEWMANN retirement
(discharge certificate) from fire
department
“ he shall be hereafter, so long as he
shall reside in this City, exempt from Poll Tax and from Serving on Juries and
from Military Duty, except in case of insurrection or invasion. “
Henry Bieber City Clerk
William
H Rohr President,
Watertown Fire Dept
Carl Goeldner Treasurer, Watertown Fire
Dept
c.1880
PHOENIX
ENGINE HOUSE, 125 North
Water
Name of Wm. Schulte, second Fire
Chief, noted on the Silsby
steamer
1881
-- -- FRAMED FIREMAN CARDS
Society
holding, previously owned by John “Putt” Reichardt,
early Fire Dept. member
1883
07 13 PLATFORMS ALONG ROCK RIVER
The platforms on the
west side of the river, built for the use of the fire department, are in a very
unsafe condition, and the approaches to them anything but safe. A few dollars invested now in pine lumber and
a few loads of gravel may save hundreds of dollars worth, since at any time
during a fire when it may be necessary for the fire company to seek the
platform in search of water, horses, engines and all are liable to fall through
them. WG
07 13 ANOTHER
SCHOOL HOUSE, DISSATISFACTION WITH
[same
date] Many of our citizens seem to be dissatisfied with the action of the
School Board in concluding to build another school house, claiming that the
present school accommodations are sufficient to meet
the requirements of the number of children here, believing that the expenditure
of so many thousands could be far better utilized. Among the many reasons brought forward in
support of their claim are the following:
In case of fire, Union School No.
1 is badly provided for, sufficient water not
being obtainable in that locality to quench an ordinary blaze, although a
cistern was sunk there for that purpose, but of a kind that is almost
useless. A few hundred dollars might be
well expended for the purpose of remedying this. . . .
Still other portions of our citizens consider the necessity of providing a
suitable "lock-up" and a
better and safer building than that now used by the Pioneer Fire Co., for
the use of the company. Editorial /
Watertown Gazette, 07 13 1883
07 27 Dr. CODY HOME FIRE
Monday morning last at
10 o'clock the alarm of fire was sounded and the fire
department called out, the occasion being the turning over of an oil stove and
its immediate explosion in the kitchen of Dr. Cody's
residence. The fire was
extinguished, however, before the engines were ready for work. The woodwork in the kitchen was badly
scorched, and the damage might have been more serious had it not been for the
heroic efforts of Miss Kate Rooney, the domestic, who endangered her own person
in subduing the flames. WG
1885
LEO RUESCH,
FIRE CHIEF, Commemorative
Coffee Pot
“From Phoenix Fire Co. No. 2 to Leo Ruesch, our Chief”
Leo Ruesch was Phoenix Fire Department Chief in 1884-1885
1886
07 17 STABLE AT PHOENIX ENGINE HOUSE
The following bids for building
and erecting a stable in connection with the Phoenix Engine House were opened
and read:
J. F. Dornfeld, $2157
C. Schmutzler, 1922
W. B. Squires, 1495
W. P. Quentmeyer, 2049
On motion by Com. Solliday the
Committee on Public Buildings was instructed to enter into a contract with the
lowest responsible bidder, for building said stable as soon as that part of
O'Connell Street be vacated for that purpose.
07 16 BOTT'S FRAME BUILDING
FIRE
Last Sunday at 2
o'clock a fire in the rear of Bott's frame building on the west side next to
Kusels' hardware store called out the fire department. The prompt and efficient response of the
Phoenix Co. made short work of the flames.
The damage is estimated at about $50.
The fire is supposed to have originated from a match or cigar ashes
thrown on the floor in the first story, where the fire started, and ran up
inside the plastering to the roof. WR
11 13 INVITATION
OF FIREMAN’S BALL
Pioneer Company No. 1
MENTION OF C. ED. STRAW
C. E. Straw: “Now located in
Watertown and running a Silsby fire engine”
1887
PIONEER
FIRE DEPARTMENT No. 1
Watertown
Historical Society Collection
03 11 THE PHOENIX COMPANY STREET SPRINKLER
We, the Phoenix engine boys, have
received such liberal patronage from our citizens for the purpose of sprinkling
the streets the coming summer, that we wish to express our thanks to all our
subscribers for the purpose and say to them that, notwithstanding all reports
to the contrary, we intend to carry out our plan of doing the sprinkling and in
a manner that everyone may rejoice in a work so well done. PHOENIX
Watertown Gazette, 03 11 1887
The
Republican reported in
April the new sprinkling cart manned and equipped by the Phoenix Fire Company
boys made its appearance on the streets for the first time. The Company owned its own team, which, “when
not in use on the Silsby is made to turn an honest penny in keeping down the
dust on the streets. The sprinkler had a
large number of patrons, and promises to do very
satisfactory work.” The sprinkler was
built after the style of carts used for street sprinkling in Chicago,
and sprinkles one-half of a street at each drive through it. The cart was ornamented with the advertising
of several local merchants. Sim Robinson
handled the ribbons on the cart, and “takes particular pains to see that none
of the ladies get their shoes or dresses wet who chance to be near a crossing
as he passes by.” Watertown Republican, 04 20 1887 and Watertown
Gazette, 04 22 1887.
06 23 JUNCTION FIRE; RAIL MILL
Junction fire; rail mill, machine
shop, carpenter shop and blacksmith shop.
WD
10 08 ANCHOR HOOK & LADDER COMPANY FORMED
Anchor Hook &
Ladder Co. No. 1 ribbon, "Pat. Oct. 18??, Mar. 7, '98"
1888
07 20 JOHN WEISSERT
John E. Weissert, 1847 – 1888;
Department in funeral procession for WG
POLL TAX: Firemen exempt from paying
In 1888 it was provided
that persons who had served for ten years in the Watertown Fire
Department were exempt from paying the poll tax as long as they continued to
live in Watertown. [source]
1889
01 11 CHARLES HOEFFNE
Charles
Hoeffner funeral; the Phoenix Fire Co turned out
in uniform.
12 06 HUGE FIRE ALMOST TOTALLY DESTROYED TREMONT HOUSE
[NOT SAME AS TREMONT HOUSE FIRE, WHICH OCCURRED ON 09
11 1895]
The Old Lindon House Barn with all its contents
totally consumed; James Casey’s Warehouse burned to the ground; Conley’s Saloon
slightly damaged and several other places badly scorched.
AN ATTEMPT TO SET TURNER HALL ON FIRE
Last Sunday morning at
about 2 o’clock one of the most disastrous fires that has ever occurred In
Watertown broke out in the old Lindon House barn
on the West Side, and before the firemen could get the fire under control some
$15,000 worth of property was consumed.
The old barn fired up
like a powder mill and in a few minutes after the blaze was first discovered
over half a dozen places took fire therefrom.
James D. Casey’s warehouse and contents were
totally consumed; Tremont House badly damaged; Conley's Saloon slightly burned,
and all the sheds in that vicinity were reduced to ashes.
At one time it looked
as though the whole business portion of the west side might succumb to the
flames, but by the heroic and excellent work of the firemen the flames were
confined to the immediate vicinity where they were first kindled. The firemen in all the companies did good
work, especially when it is taken into consideration that two blocks of
frontage had to be protected by them. It
was with difficulty that the American House and barns were saved, also Casey's
blacksmith shop, Conley's saloon and Seager’s barbershop.
For the fine work of
the firemen, they are deserving of great praise from our citizens. . . . WG
12 06 HOOK & LADDER TIPS ONTO FIREMEN
Sunday noon A. Meyer, Nic. J. Simon, E. J.
Voigt and H. J. Heilmann, of the Anchor Fire and Hose
Cos. were seriously injured by the Hook & Ladder truck being tipped over
onto them, while responding to a second alarm of fire from the Tremont
House. WG
12 13 CONDITION OF FIREMEN
All the firemen injured lately by the
turning over onto them of the hook and ladder truck are able to be out again, except Nic. Simon, who is still in
a very serious condition.
04 25 DESTRUCTIVE FIRE
At 2:30 o'clock last Saturday morning a destructive fire occurred in the
city and at one time it looked as though a large portion of the west side would
be destroyed. The entire box, bee-hive
and section factory of G. B. Lewis & Co. the and -Watertown Woolen Mills, owned by Mrs. James Chapman, were totally consumed. The loss of the former is about $15,000
insured for $4,500 . . . . The buildings burned were located adjacent to
two large lumberyards, the Empire flour mills and several frame buildings. Had it not been for the good service of the
fire department the loss would have been very great. The origin of the fire is
unknown . . . . WG
04 28 ANOTHER DESTRUCTIVE FIRE
Another disastrous fire visited our city Monday
evening, making an almost total wreck of the livery
barn of George W. Evans, located on north First Street. Fortunately, sufficient
help arrived in time to save the entire stock of horses, carriages, buggies and
harnesses. The barn was stored with 5,000
bushels of oats and about forty tons of hay, all of which were completely destroyed. The front wall, part of the side wall and the
office addition were saved and it may be that they are
sufficiently preserved to be used in rebuilding. But on the whole the building is a bad wreck
and it was one of the worst fires Watertown has experienced .
. . . The Ahrens engine, as luck would have it, was delivered by the Kunert Manufacturing company to the fire department during
the day and did excellent work in connection with the ever reliable old Silsby engine that has never failed in any emergency up to
the present time. The fire started very
mysteriously in a small cow stable on Mrs. Mannegold's
lot adjoining the barn and from it spread to a shed addition of the barn used
for storing rubbish, both forming a strong nucleus for a fire. Mr. Evans will probably rebuild at once and
continue his business, which had become quite large in the livery line. . . . WR
04 30 SUPPLY
CITY WITH 100 HYDRANTS
[same
date] The regular meeting of the Board of Street Commissioners Monday evening
was broken up by the fire. It is not a little
singular that there was to have come before the body a proposition from a
Chicago company to put in water works here and supply the city with 100 hydrants and
an outlay of $5,000 a year. We
believe a majority of our citizens have come to the
conclusion that the next improvement wanted in Watertown is a complete system
of water works, embracing ample protection from fires. Should this be done our citizens would save
something in the lowering of the price of insurance, to say nothing of other
benefits to be derived. WR
05 07 FIRE HYDRANTS OF LUDLOW PATTERN
From the minutes of the Board of Street
Commissioners meeting held Monday evening, May 1st, 1890: Clerk read proposition from Jas. H. Thompson,
of Chicago, submitting to the Board a proposition to erect and maintain water
works to furnish a supply of water for public and private usage; guaranteeing
to erect and maintain a perfect system of pumping works with two steam boilers,
two duplex steam pumps having a combined capacity of 2,000,000 gallons in 24
hours---10 miles of street mains of proper size for distribution of the water;
also to erect 100 fire hydrants, of Ludlow pattern each to have 2 ˝-inch hose
connections to fit hose now in use in the city; water to be clean water; to
furnish all water for public schools and other buildings owned by city free of
charge; provided the city pays an annual rental of $50.00 for each of the 100
hydrants, and the city to have the right to purchase the water works, should it
so desire. It is further agreed to
furnish the same pumping works with seven miles of street mains with 70
hydrants at an annual rental of $60 for each hydrant. WR
05 14 EMERGENCY
HOSPITAL PROPOSED FOR OLD ENGINE HOUSE
The proposal of the health officer to
occupy the old engine house on First Street as an emergency hospital, provided
the privilege is granted by the council, meets with some opposition, especially
from those living and doing business in the vicinity.
If it should be the intention, as is
supposed, to care for patients with infectious diseases, the central location
of the building would make jeopardizing, no doubt, to the general health of the
city. On the other hand, cases here of
persons away from their homes needing urgent and immediate medical attention,
or particularly from accidents, which are the cases the health officer wishes
to provide for, are not numerous enough to make it worthwhile to go to the
outlay and troubles suggested. We
believe not more than three or four such cases have occurred in the city for
the past six or seven years, and in case of great emergency the marshal’s
office would, we think, meet all the requirements wanted. WR
05 14 FIRE AT CHICKEN BARN
[same date] Shortly before midnight Saturday night the
fire bells rang, the alarm being caused by a fire breaking out in the barn
building of J. P. Herzog, Second ward.
The fire department at once responded to the call and the streams
applied smothered the blaze before much harm was done the building. A lot of chickens in the barn quietly roosted
away all through the commotion and flew around as lively as ever next morning.
11 05 FIRE BUG WEIGEL
Edward Weigel, aged 11 years,
whose home is on North First Street, was taken before Justice Halliger, October 21, under a criminal complaint for having
stolen a watch, the property of G. Boehn, and the
youthful culprit was committed to the Reform school at Waukesha. Other offenses came out against him in the
examination, such as stealing dinner pails from the children of St. Henri's
school, from which is was evident that he required to be taken care of.
Sometime before the boy had been
charged with tempting to set fire at St. Henri's church, having sprinkled oil,
obtained in the church, on the floor and then scattered matches over the
surface so that a person walking might ignite the matches and set the blaze
going. But Justice Halliger,
from his proofs, decided that there was no cause of action and discharged
him.
And now come the startling
denouement. When Deputy Sheriff Graewe was leaving the Reform school to return home, young
Weigel confessed to him and the keeper to having set fire to Paul Herzog's barn
and since then the astounding intelligence is received that in addition to this
burning he admits that he set fire to the factory of G. B. Lewis & Co. and Geo. W. Evans' livery stable, involving a destruction of some
$25,000 worth of property.
It may be this boy is trying to
make a great hero of himself, and that his admissions must be taken with some
grains of allowance, but that he is an evil-disposed youth whose presence is
dangerous to society and should be made to pass through a lengthy penitential
period will not be disputed. WR
12 05 FIRE BUGS WEIGEL and SCHLUTER
John Schluter a lad 14 years of age of the 5th ward, was arrested
Thursday morning on the charge of being implicated in setting fire to Lewis
& Co.'s factory which was destroyed by fire last February. Mr. Parks visited Waukesha on Wednesday and
called on young Edward Weigel, a lad 11 years of age sent from here to the
reform school at that place October 21st.
It will be remembered that at that time Weigel claimed to have set fire
to several places here, and on Wednesday last told Mr. Parks while in conversation
with him that young Schluter was implicated with him in firing the Lewis
factory. Schluter is now in jail
awaiting his examination. WG
12 12 FIRE-BUGS CONFESS TO LEWIS FIRE, AND OTHERS
In our issue of last week we
referred briefly to the arrest of John Schlueter charged with setting fire to
G. B. Lewis & Co.’s bee hive factory in February. As stated, Mr. Parks, the junior member of
the company, visited the reform school at Waukesha for the purpose of getting a
confession out of Eddy Weigel, a boy 11 years of age sent from here to that
institution last October, with the suspicion hanging over him that he knew all
about the various fires that were kindled here the present year, involving the
loss of over $25,000 worth of property in the destruction of the G. B. Lewis Co.’s bee
hive factory, the Watertown woolen mill, Geo. W. Evans’ livery barn and the Herzog and
Lange barns.
When Mr. Parks first began interviewing young Weigel,
he was reluctant to telling all he knew about these fires, but he finally made
a clean breast of it. He stated that he
fired Evans’ and Lange’s barns merely for the sake of seeing a fire, and
Herzog's barn because some of the Herzog family were mad at his folks, and called him names because they did not buy beer at
Herzog's saloon, and he fired the barn to get even with them.
With regard to the Lewis fire, he stated that he and Schlueter
planned this fire because they had applied for work at the Lewis factory and
were refused. Early in the evening they
passed some time in a barn back of the William Pell house in the 5th ward, and
then strolled down towards Weber’s lumber yard, thence down to the river bank,
and waited around the mills and factory until the electric lights went
out. Weigel gave a minute description of
the interior of the factory at the place therein where they started the fire on
the night in question, so that there can be no doubt of his story being
correct.
As soon as the electric lights were turned off, both
entered the basement door on the south of the factory leading from the alley
way between there and the woolen mill, Schlueter applied the match whilst
Weigel stood guard outside watching so that they could not be surprised in
their nefarious work. When everything
was ready, Weigel went outside to watch, but returned again
to inform Schlueter that a man was passing by and they had better wait awhile
longer. They did so, and both returned
to their respective posts.
Schlueter applied the match to a pile of shavings in
the fore part of the basement and then skipped outside, calling to his partner
to run. Both started on the run, got
separated in Weber's lumber yard, but came together again near Jesse Stone's
residence, and then proceeded to Hughes' barn nearby, where they passed the
night.
On arriving home from Waukesha, Mr. Parks had
Schlueter arrested. He was closely
questioned as to his connection with the Lewis fire, and told substantially the
same story as above. . . .
. . . . It is a relief to know that older persons were
not engaged in this work. Both boys will
probably spend the best years of their lives in the reform school, if not in
the state prison, and it is hoped that with this as an example before them,
other boys here may be prevented from ever engaging in such despicable
work.
The reform school and state prison, to our mind, is
altogether too mild a punishment for such acts.
It now remains to discover who fired the old Lindon House barn, and let
us hope that the guilty one may also be found out. WG
1891
---- DEATH
OF HAVENS WILBER, supporter
of department
1894
01 03 CISTERN AT SIXTH AND MAIN
The cistern for the use of the fire department at the corner
of Sixth and Main Street has been repaired with new planking and is now in
proper condition to hold water. WR
08 01 FIRE AT THE NORTHWESTERN
The Main Building of the University Group Struck by
Lightning.
Shortly after 10 o clock Monday
night, during the storm which had set in just previously, the terrific electric
bolt which was so generally noticed for its severity struck the flag-staff on the
belfry of the main building of the Northwestern University, and in hardly less
time than it takes to tell it the belfry and the entire roof were completely
enveloped in a sheet of flames.
The fire department bustled to
the scene of action as soon as possible, but was
unable to render effective assistance in subduing the flames until an hour
later, owing to the distance of the steamers from the burning building which
was fully a half mile, at the cistern on the corner of Main Street and College
Avenue. This made it difficult for the
engines to force water through the hose with sufficient
strength to be of any aid. Finally a good stream was secured by placing one of the
streamers half way between the cistern and the building and forcing the water
from that point when it was received from the other engine.
The firemen worked all night
and until noon yesterday over the ruins.
After the fire had gained a good foot hold on the roof it spread rapidly
to the inside of the building and completely gutted it. Nothing but the massive brick walls are left,
and these may possibly have to be torn down for safety. The rainfall in progress at the time no doubt
prevented the fire from touching the adjoining buildings and making it even
more destructive than it was. Some good
work was done in saving the contents of the building. A portion of the furniture and a considerable
part of the valuable library were removed by willing hands.
Some insurance was carried, but
how much cannot be exactly ascertained as yet. The
board of trustees had charge of this and it was
carried in Milwaukee agencies. It is
thought it does not amount to over $5,000 or $8,000, which is very small in
comparison to the whole loss. This is
conservatively estimated to be at least $25,000 above the insurance. Nothing can be said at this writing of the
plans of the board of trustees, of which Rev. Mr. Bading, of Milwaukee, is
president, as to replacing the building.
10 25 The Watertown
Manufacturing company have completed the repairs on the Phoenix fire engine
(Silsby), and Monday afternoon it was tested on Main Street bridge. The steamer performed its work very
satisfactorily, and the firemen and city authorities were much pleased with it. It seems to be as good as new. The repairs were apparently done in a first
-class, workmanlike manner, reflecting great credit upon the company and their
skilled mechanics who had charge of the job, Messrs. Boardman and
Reichardt. The city saved considerable
money by entrusting the contract to them at $650, as another firm wanted $1,900
to do the same work. WR
1895
01 09 A test of the
efficiency of the city's fire department was made about 8 o'clock Saturday
evening. Chief McLaughlin sounded the
alarm, the steamers were sent to Main Street bridge and the companies ordered
to work. It took the Ahrens engine and
the Anchor Hose company just three and one-half minutes to get to the bridge
after the alarm, the Silsby engine and the Phoenix boys arrived a few seconds
thereafter, the difference being accounted for in the greater distance their
house from the bridge. The Phoenix boys
had a stream of water through their hose almost immediately after their
arrival, but for some reason the Ahrens engine failed to pump
and it was twenty minutes before it could force any water. There is something palpably wrong with this
steamer. Lately it has failed to perform
its work several times. The city authorities
are investigating the matter and will endeavor to ascertain where the trouble
lies. Monday morning it was again tested and this time worked satisfactorily, a stream being
thrown in a very few moments after starting.
WR
01 09 KEEPING CISTERNS CLEAR OF SNOW, HOLES CUT
IN THE ICE
[same date] The matter of keeping fire cisterns clear of
snow and holes cut in the ice for the use of the fire department has in the
past occasioned considerable trouble to the council and the letting of
bids. Why not appropriate a certain sum
say $75, and give the contract to the fire department, each company taking it
in turn? If such were done, the city
could be reasonably certain that the work would be satisfactorily
performed. WR
01 09 EMPIRE MILL FIRE
A fire was discovered at noon yesterday in
the Empire Mill of the Globe Milling company, and
for a time it was feared the company would suffer a loss like that sustained
last August in the destruction of the Globe mill. But the alarm was hastily given
and the firemen were at work without delay, subduing the flames before any
headway had been gained. Several streams
of water were at work, both on the outside and inside of the mill, and the
chances were altogether against the fire spreading. The flames were located in
the bran room, connected with which is a conveyor from the elevator. One of the buckets of this conveyor had in
some manner got out of running order, thereby stopping the movement of the
belting, and the continued revolving of the drive pulley – which was directly
at the head of the conveyor, where the grain was discharged to the bran room
produced a friction on the belting which in time burned the latter. The communication of the flames to the bran
followed, the fact being discovered by William Wurtzler and others of the mill
hands just as they were about to leave for dinner.
Owing to alterations being made in the flouring department,
the mill was running only its feed department.
No material loss was occasioned by the fire, the principal damage being
done by the large amount of water poured into
the building. This affected the
machinery and other contents considerably.
It is thought the loss will be at least $1,500. The property is amply insured. It was a narrow escape from a most serious
conflagration, and everybody is thankful that if was no worse. The company will be delayed some by the
cleaning-up process. WR
01 16 The loss occasioned by the blaze at the Empire mill last Tuesday was not
nearly as large as first reported. It
was adjusted by the insurance company at about $200. WR
02 06 STACY HOME FIRE
On returning home last Sunday afternoon from a call, Mr. and
Mrs. W. J. Stacy discovered fire in the sitting room of their residence, 410
West Cady Street. The carpeting and some
of the furniture was damaged to the extent of $25. It is supposed to have caught from the
igniting of a match in the straw under the carpet, which was probably stepped
upon as they left their dwelling an hour or so previous. WR
04 03 JAEDECKE PROPERTY FIRE
The
property owned by William Jaedecke, surrounding the southwest corner of Main
and Seventh streets, was visited by the fire fiend at an early hour Sunday
morning and considerable damage was done.
The fire extended to the lumber yard of Brittingham & Hixon,
adjoining on the west, but aside from the burning of a few piles of lumber and
cedar posts, no great damage was done in that quarter . . . There is perhaps no
more dangerous locality in the city for a fire than this block, and with the
high eastern wind prevailing at the time it is a marvel that more property was
not destroyed. Excellent work, however,
was performed by the fire department, under the supervision of Chief
McLaughlin, and this, coupled with the lucky rainfall, prevented the flames
from spreading. The firemen are entitled
to much praise for their heroic and tireless effort in the face of many
obstacles, the principal of which was the lack of water. The origin of the fire is unknown, although
many circumstances point to incendiarism.
It is said that there was a strong smell of kerosene during the fire's
progress.
09 11 TREMONT HOUSE FIRE
On West Main Street; one doubts
that it was of incendiary origin.
09 25 A barn on the
premises of Luke Dunigan, on River Street, Seventh
ward, caught fire about 1 o'clock yesterday afternoon, and, fanned by the brisk
breeze, the flames made rapid progress, soon rendering the structure a mass of
ruins. The department responded to the
alarm, but before the firemen could begin work on the blaze the destruction was
complete. WR
11 13 The
location of street hydrants of the water system was definitely
arranged at the council meeting Saturday evening. There are to be 149 of them, which will pretty thoroughly cover the city.
1898
03 03 DUTIES OF THE ENGINEER OF THE
DEPARTMENT
The Common Council of
the city of Watertown do ordain as follows:
Section 1. The duties of the engineer of the fire
department shall be to keep the fire engine No. 2 in good repair and ready for
use and properly care for the same, and to run it at all fires when it shall be
called out by the chief of the fire department;
To keep clean and well-oiled and wiped engine No. 1, so that the same
will not rust; to attend as a fireman all fires, going with the hose wagon; but
if the fire engine shall be called out, he shall return and run it; to be
janitor of the Phoenix engine house and keep the same clean and in good order,
and to sleep there; to wash the hose after fires or when used, and to change
them in the hose-wagon as often as necessary, so that they will not crack; to
run the steam roller when requested so to do by the city engineer, and to keep
the same clean and properly wiped and oiled when not in use.
08 03 STEAM WHISTLE ON WATER DEPT POWER HOUSE
A steam whistle has been
purchased by the board of water commissioners and is erected to be in place on the power house in a few
days. It is a three-chimes whistle and
will serve several purposes, one of which will be to notify consumers of the
closing time for lawn sprinkling both morning and evening, and another to
proclaim, in case of fire, the number of the ward in which the fire is
located. WR
12 28 SCHENCK GROCERY & BOWLING ALLEY FIRE
Friday morning last, about 3
o'clock, the old frame building at the northeast corner of West Main and Monroe
streets was discovered to be on fire [Cross
Reference: Edward Schenck, 616 W Main,1899-99 City Dir; today 614?]. The west end of the building, including a bowling alley extending about forty feet north, was
badly damaged. Mr. Schenck was the
occupant of the premises, using a portion of the west end for a grocery
store. His loss on stock is about $250.
No light has been shed on the origin of the fire, although one story is that it
was the work of a couple of tramps who were refused aid and were determined to
get even. Probably spontaneous
combustion was the real cause. WR
12 28 McGOLRICK SMOKEHOUSE FIRE
A smokehouse on the premises of
John F. McGolrick, Seventh ward, caught fire yesterday
afternoon, but the blaze was extinguished before any damage aside for the
burning of some meat was done. The
department was called out, but its services were not needed. Cross Reference: John F. McGolrick, wood and coal, 1014 5th
St; residence at 218 Mary (Watertown City Directory, 1899-1900) WR
1899
02 22 FROZEN WATER MAINS
Several water mains
have been found to be frozen, and steps have been taken to put them in
condition for use in case of necessity.
Fire Chief Roy has taken the matter in hand, and
made proper provisions for the use of the fire engines should it become
necessary. R.W. Wood, assistant in
physics at the state university, has originated a new plan for thawing out
water pipes. By his plan an electric
wire is attached to the water pipe at the meter, if the freeze is outside of
it, and another to the nearest hydrant. The current is then turned on and the
electricity does the rest. At the
residence of W. F. Viles, in Madison, Monday afternoon, 150 feet of pipe in the
frozen section was thawed out in twelve minutes. WR
03 22 FIRE DEPT TEST
The fire department was
given a very satisfactory test yesterday afternoon, being called out on an
alarm sounded by Chief Roy. The three companies made the run in an extremely
short time. WR
04 26 WILLIAM BUCHHEIT BLAZE
A small blaze in the
rear of the residence of Wm. Buchheit called out the fire department Friday
evening, a section of the fence having taken fire from burning refuse. The fire was easily extinguished, and no
damage of any account resulted.
04 26 THE EXCITED IMAGINATION
of a small boy resulted in the bringing out of the fire boys Sunday
evening. The glare of a blazing coal
fire in a window of J. T. Moak's residence attracted the attention of a little
fellow who was passing by, and his frantic yells of "fire, fire!"
were quickly re-echoed along the line, and soon a large section of the city was in commotion. But they did have a "hot" time at
the ball game in the afternoon. WR
05 30 Lewis Monument dedication participant
08 04 SHOE FACTORY “FIRE”
Last Monday evening the
fire department was called out by an alarm of fire being sent in from First
Street. A pile of brush was set on fire south
of the electric light building, and the fire reflected in the shoe factory
windows making it appear that the interior of the building was all on
fire. When it was announced the shoe factory was “on fire", people began to express
regrets, for it was feared that many would be deprived of employment should its
burn down. When it was learned to be a
false alarm, all felt at ease. WG
09 14 HARVEST JUBILEE &
CARNIVAL PARTICIPATION
A
fire run by the local department was on the program, and it proved a most
agreeable surprise. Eight pieces of
apparatus, including the wagon carrying the chief and assistant chief, were
used and the run was a most exciting and thrilling
feature. It was cleverly conceived and
carried out without a hitch. . . . As the float of the
William Hartig Brewing company, one of the last in the parade, neared Main
Street bridge, it caught fire from the burning of red light and had to be taken
out of the line of march. The fire alarm
was sounded and the department promptly extinguished
the blaze. This was the only accident
that occurred to mar any of the three days’ proceedings.
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THIS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS
History of Watertown,
Wisconsin