History of the Malvern Fire Company
From the bucket brigades and horse-drawn vehicles of 1888, to the sophisticated trucks, ambulances, and communications used by trained volunteers today, the Malvern Fire Company has been committed for over 125 years to protecting the Borough of Malvern and the surrounding area.  The following is a history of the Malvern Fire Company.

The Founding of the Company

With the smokestacks of the Pennsylvania Railroad trains triggering fires along the tracks through Malvern and the occasional house and business fires, residents of the Village of Malvern, then the northern-most part of Willistown Township, began to talk of fire protection in the 1880’s. Fires either were put out by bucket brigades or smothering, or left to burn out.

The Malvern Free Will Fire Company was established February 8, 1888, by about 50 citizens of the village.

Reportedly, the motto agreed to during early meetings of the new Company held at J. Jones Still’s bicycle shop was, "Do the best you can at any time, at any place; no night too dark, no road too rough to answer the call of mercy and of duty." (DLN)

The Early Years

In March, 1889, it was reported that the Company’s "large new fire alarm bell arrived in town and it will soon be hoisted into position. It cost about $30." (DLN)

On August 13, 1889, the Village of Malvern officially became the Borough of Malvern, completely separate from Willistown Township, but the Company continued to cover a large area around the borough.

A fire at the Pennsylvania Railroad Station March 7, 1892, put the "Hook and Ladder truck in service—at this time there being no supply of water, the Station was entirely destroyed." This fire raised questions about the needs of the Company to fight similar fires in the future.

"It was decided to purchase at a cost of about $1000 one of Gleason & Bailey’s engines, a separate hose carriage, two six-gallon extinguishers, the requisite hose, etc." (DLN) The Trustees borrowed $400 from the National Bank of Malvern to help pay for the engine and authorized the insuring of the equipment for $1000.

Once again, a fair was planned for September 8-10 to raise funds to pay for the new equipment. Some of the prizes at the 1892 fair were an ice cream freezer, clothes-wringer, silk umbrella, set of Mrs. Potts’ irons, carving set, lap robe, washbowl and pitcher, table lamp, glass berry set and gold watch. (DLN)

The chief reported one fire on November 20, 1893. "Fire at small barn of Mrs. McCarre—near Sugartown Bridge—no water, barn destroyed."

"Fire at residence and store of Robt. Shields, good work after a severe fight, put the fire out, saving the principal part of Building and all of the store," wrote the chief March 31, 1894. "Alarm of Fire at residence of Mrs. Bowker. Chimney Fire- No damage," was his November 1 entry. "Fire at Home of John Johnson Sugartown road—No water, the house was entirely destroyed," was the November 10^th report.

The Secretary of the Trustees reported January 4 that he had purchased the 200 feet of 2-inch rubber lined cotton hose requested by the company for 33 cents per foot, including coupling.

The 1895 Trustee’s annual report was presented to the Company. "One lot of ground 3^rd Avenue [now Church street] and Roberts Lane. One Engine House—Two Rifles. Deed for Lot Policy of Insurance, bond and mortgage for the amount of $300 held against the property of Mr. Amos McCue—The Charter of the Company, and Bond of the present Treasurer all held subject to the Examination of the Auditors."

On November 26, 1896, the Chief reported "Fire in drying room at C.H. Malin’s Mill. Company went into service with extinguishers and plug streams doing good service and extinguishing fire before any great damage was done."

One fire was reported by the chief in 1897: "Alarm of Fire at the Store of John Haley—Did not go into service."

The newspaper embellished it a bit more. "John S. Haley, of East Gay Street, (West Chester) who conducts a branch store at Malvern, which is in charge of his brother William, last evening had a fire which came near putting an end to the business. Haley had gone to supper, leaving the store in the care of Edward Wier, when suddenly and without warning a large lamp which hung over the counter in the center of the store fell with a crash, and scattered blazing oil in every direction. Wier, the clerk, stood his ground, throwing his overcoat over them, but this only resulted in the loss of the garment. When the firemen arrived, all danger was over. The loss will not amount to over $50." (DLN)

"Fire at residence of Dr. John King Evans—Company went into service and did good execution with plug streams, loss not great," the Chief reported January 28, 1893. On November 15, the Chief recorded: "Call on Telephone, to fire of Hay stack within few feet of the barn of Michael Dougherty at Riley's Banks —company went into Service with Engine and did good service, saving barn—without damage."

"Ground was broken yesterday [on Church Street] for the new house of the Malvern Fire Company and it will be ready for occupancy as soon as possible. Work is being pushed upon the foundations and they will shortly be completed. The firemen wilt have a neat home when it is completed,' reported the December 21

Daily Local News. Reportedly the brick firehouse was built by William Spackman who had built the "Little Red Schoolhouse" at First and Warren Avenues.

A second fire occurred at Dr. Evans' residence February 2, 1899 with little damage. On May 30, there was an "Alarm of Fire from Paoli. The Paoli Inn, being in flames, the Company went into service but on account of the great headway

The fire had gained and the trouble with water, the building was entirely destroyed." The Chief recorded August 25 "Fire at Masters Creamery at Warren Shops—Building almost consumed when the alarm was given."

Turn of the Century

The only fire reported in 1900 was June 10: "Fire at Devers & Bracken Lumber Yard, Paoli. This Company responded and went  into service with Engine, etc. "Did excellent execution."

In 1901, the Trustees reported at their June 3 meeting the receipts of rental fees from elections, the Daughters of Liberty, and Borough Council, the latter being $13 for six months.

Three fires were reported in 1902, one a house fire, one in some piles of rails, and the third at a meat plant. On November 9 the Chief reported "Fire at Sausage and Scrapple Mfg. of William White in stable of James Davis— Woodland Ave., The Fire had great headway when Alarm was sounded—The Company went into service but on account of headway gained by the Fire and the very inflammable nature of it little could be done. The Building was entirely consumed and when we could get at the ruins, the body of William White was found in stable terribly charred and burned." A "slight fire" was reported in December, at the residence Auctioneer George P. Cafey, but the flames from the chimney fire were checked "before much damage was done." (DLN)

Seven fires were recorded in the Chief's log in 1904. The first was January 4 at the stables of the Duffryn Mawr Hotel at Green Tree Station. "Building almost entirely destroyed when the alarm was given. Went into service to protect surrounding property."

On January 12: "Fire at the Coach House and Stable of Henry B. Coxe. This Company went in service quickly and done good service. Loss, about $60." Mr. Coxe, a member of a prominent Philadelphia industrial family, lived in the red brick house on what is now the Layman's Retreat on Warren Avenue. This property was his summer home. Reportedly, Mr. Coxe gave the Company a $1,500 gasoline engine in the spring of 1904, reputed to be the first such engine in Pennsylvania. It is a treasured piece of Company equipment which still runs today. Mr. Coxe died August 31, 1904, while on a trip to Belgium.

A stable fire at the home of Mrs. Bennett Cox May 8, was quickly extinguished and the house, only 12 feet away, was saved. A small loss was sustained May 9 in the gable of the RT. Warner Carriage Paint Shop. A smoke stack fire at the Charles E. Hires Plant August 28 was too small to require the services of the Company.

"The test of Malvern's gasoline fire engine on Saturday [April 23] continued until the noon hour, and the housing was thus delayed considerably. The work was finally performed by a delegation representing three West Chester fire companies, the speeches being made by Chief George R.Walton, Dilworth P. Hibberd, and Burgess Charles H. Pennypacker. There were further tests made of the engine in the afternoon, it being taken to the Baptist Church and an effort made to throw a stream of water over the steeple. There was a brisk wind blowing and it was some time before this was accomplished." (DLN)

The first reference to its use by the Chief was at an October 11 fire "al the Large barn of T. Wesley Goodwin, on G. T. Ruth property—Fire had great headway, coming out through roof and sides when the alarm was sounded. The Gasoline Fire Engine was quickly putting a very strong stream on it, but on account of great headway the building could not be saved."

The first recorded false alarm was noted on November 4. A fire extinguisher was used December 27 to put out a fire at the home of Mr. Westwood on Ruthland Avenue.

The Chief's Log shows five entries for the year 1905. "False alarm of fire was sounded, caused by crossed wire on street alarm boxes, Company quickly responded." (January 6) A chimney fire April 2 caused little damage at the Isaac D. Smith residence on Lancaster Avenue. "Fire (July 19) at the Stable & Undertaking Establishment of G.B. Passmore, this Company quickly responded and although the fire had gotten considerable headway, they succeeded in extinguishing and saving the building. Our success with this fire was very praiseworthy." Another false alarm occurred July 19 while the men were working on the fire alarm wires.

The Company responded lo an alarm from Paoli November 15, but returned upon learning the fire at the railroad was out. On December 12, "About 9;30 a.m. the Knickerbocker Lime Co. phoned for assistance, as a row of six Houses of theirs was on Fire. With 3 horses from A.L. Craft Company quickly responded, while we had a run of over 3 miles, we succeeded in saving one of the Houses entire and another one partially. We had Engine taking water from Valley Creek."

An attic fire July 14, 1906 In a home at Miner Street and Lancaster Avenue was confined and the "rest of the building not Injured except by water." Another chimney fire on Lancaster Avenue November 27 was quickly put out and damage not exceed $25.

The Company responded to a fire in the engine house of the Hires Condensed Milk Co. pumping station June 3, 1907. On August 17 a fire alarm from the Weaver Farm in Chester Valley was briefly noted in the Chief's Log, because "on account of there being no water near the Company did not go."

The Company responded to an October 22 fire on the roof of E.E. Williams' barn , "but their services were not required, as fire was put out by a few buckets of water—-damage trifling." A newspaper report said "A locomotive spark was supposed to have caused the trouble." (DLN)

The Company was called August 8, 1908 to protect the property of Robert Matthews in Chester Valley during a barn fire.

The Chief recorded nine fires in 1909, in Paoli, Chester Valley, and Malvern.

The most serious was the Commisky Farm house in Chester Valley June 29. "The fire had great headway the roof of back portion had fallen in, we were in service and had a good stream on in 20 minutes from time alarm was received—Alter a fight of about 2 hours we had fire out, but house was damaged beyond repairs."

The Trustees reported January 4 the receipt of rentals for elections and Borough Council, $7 for the old heater, and a $150 appropriation from Council. The Malvern and Berwyn Fire Companies reportedly housed the Paoli Fire Company's first engine July 22. The Trustees discussed equipping the Fire Police during the fall of 1909. Upon receipt of bids from three suppliers, the Trustees gave the order to Malvern hardware man Horace Supplee, the lowest bidder, for lver Johnson .38 calibre guns, clubs, handcuffs, holsters and belts.

 The 1910s

Five fires were reported in the Chief's Log in 1910, three in Malvern and two in Chester Valley. Of these, the most notable one occurred on Friday September 23, 1910 at 2 p.m. 'a request was made by phone from the Whiteman Estate farm in Chester Valley near Bacton Stations, stating that the barn was on fire and they were afraid the house would go—The Company quickly responded, making the run of 4 1/2 miles and having a stream on the fire in 35 minutes. The Company did good service, saving house, all the stabling for cows etc., with a full silo in fact considerable other property." The Company's January minutes reported a chimney fire December 22, 1909, on the Henry 8. Coxe estate with no damage.

Some of the expenses reported by the Company February 7 included root beer syrup, $13.25; Fife & Drum Corps teacher, $8.50; and carfare for the band to Reading, $31.68.

One false alarm and two barn fires, one in Chester Valley and one In Devault, were reported in 1911. For the latter, a fireman dammed up a small creek to provide water for the pumper.

"The Trustees made an agreement with David Kilpatrick to bring a pair of horses and wagon to the firehouse, whenever there was a fire alarm, to convey the firemen to the scene of fire," stated the minutes of March 21.

In February, 1912 the Trustees noted that they "have made an agreement with Walter Craft to take a pair of horses to the Firehouse in time of fire to draw the hose wagon to the fire."

The one fire recorded in 1913 was May 1 in a Hires Condensed Milk Co. building in which solder was melted. "Company responded with Hose wagon but fire so slight, that it was extinguished by Bucket Brigade. Loss not over $25."

The purchase of an "auto truck" was voted on at the December 26 Company meeting, along with a committee of five to solicit donations to finance it. Ordered from the Hale Motor Co., the truck cost $1,541.94.

Six fires in 1914 were recorded in the Chief's Log, starting with one at 12:45 a.m. New Year's day in the borough. The house was saved with a loss of about $50. A garage fire January 15 on State Road (now Paoli Pike) was answered by the Chief, who took the extinguisher and chemicals, and was driven there by Dr. Evans. Due to there being only one fire plug and the Paoli Fire Company having under control, the Company did not go into service at the January 31 fire at Dr. Adams' asylum in Paoli.

On August 26, "At 2:55 a.m. alarm was received that stable of the Atlantic Refining Co. was on fire. Company quickly responded with automobile apparatus, quickly had fire under control, but on account of great headway gained before alarms, the building was virtually destroyed, all surrounding buildings saved, loss on building about $1,400 on contents $100." Almost two years later, the Company's minutes recorded that "Motion carried that Secretary correspond with J.D. Rockefeller, to ask him to reimburse the Company for damages sustained to hose, at fire, when the Atlantic Refining Co's stable was burned down." Nothing further about the matter appears in the minutes.

Of the other three fires, one was an assist for Paoli October 1 at which "We quickly responded with the Auto Fire Engine and went into service, in about one half hour the fires was virtually out. We playing on same at request of Paoli Co. for some time after their Engine stopped." A lamp explosion in a Lancaster Avenue house required no service and a barn fire at Lancaster and Frazer Avenues, Frazer, saw the Company saving the surrounding property.

Thomas Haines & Company was contacted to "take members of the Fire Company to fires where the Company is called outside the borough limits in their Auto Truck" as reported at the October 8 Company meeting.

Five fires were noted in the Chief's Log for 1915, in Chester Valley, Devault, Green Tree and Goshenville. The Ogden house fire September 24 was out by the time the Company arrived, "the fire caused by leaving lighted lamp on table burning all night." On December 25, "An alarm of fire was received by phone about 8:30 a.m, stating that the home of Mr. Armstrong, King Road near Three Tons—-was on fire. The Company responded, by sleds, etc. doing all that could be done, The Engine after hard fight through snow drifts, etc. reached there, but being no water near, did not go into service. The house only was destroy other buildings being saved." This must have been a memorable Christmas for all.

Bills at the November 4 meeting included $2.00 for 8 quarts of Ice cream C.F. Boehmler and $13 for two tons of egg coal from C.T. Biddison. "Mr. T.N. Pyle, offered as a prize, a 5 dollar pair of shoes, to the members of the fire company who brought in the names of the most applicants during the next six months, and a vote of thanks was extended to him for same."

Four fires in Malvern, Willistown, and Green Tree were recorded in 1916, two house fires, the Hires Condensed Milk Co. pumping station, and the Green Tree Railroad station. One of the rare references to World War I occurred in the July 6 Company minutes. "On motion, the Company decided to keep W.F. Magil in good standing during time the Government requires him, and Secretary was instructed to write him, and to give him the best wishes of the Company."

Two fires were reported July 27, 1917. "An alarm was received about 2:00 a.m. by phone that slaughter house and barn of Kurtz Shank was afire. The Company responded very quickly with auto engine as also the Paoli Fire Co. with chemicals. After several hours hard work we gained control saving the house and adjoining building, the barn and slaughter house being totally destroyed house and barn were built less than twenty feet apart only the weather boards next to barn were partly burned. An alarm was received about 3 a.m. that stable of W.J. Burkey was on fire. The Company turned out quickly but did not go into service as building past saving when we arrived and was total loss."

At the April 5, 1917 Company meeting, "On motion the Secretary was instructed to write to the Congressman of this district, Thos. S. Butler, to ask him to convey to the President, in behalf of the Malvern Fire Co., the following resolution:

"Resolved that the Malvern Fire Co. pledges its support to the President in the present crisis of the country."

One fire was recorded by the Chief on November 11, 1918. "An alarm v. sounded at about 11:l5 a.m. that house of C.S. Everett was on fire. The company responded and found parlor on second floor ablaze, we used chemicals only and after a stubborn fight succeeded in putting fire out with very little damage considering the nature of fire."

Four fires were noted in 1919 by Chief S.B. Grubb. The Hires Condensed Milk plant was destroyed January 17 and a fire on some coal bins put out. To a a.m. fire in January at Sidney Gooding's house "The Company responded with auto pump and went into action. Owing to the headway fire had when we arrived it was impossible to save same, and was totally destroyed." The January 2 notation was "We were called to the house of Tony Martin and found out house afire which was quickly subdued by a stream from plug." The last recorded fire in 1919 was March 1. " alarm was sounded for a fire at home of Elwood Diem, the Company quickly responded and found fire in attic which was soon put out with chemicals and with very little damage."

The 1920s

Chief John V. Nolan's record began with three fires in January, 1921. N-damage was reported at the vacant lot of the Nestles Food Co. [formerly Hires Condensed Milk] January 2. The pig house at the Malvern Stock Farm at 10 p.m. January 21 was a total loss, estimated at $2,000. Also in January there was a "Call to the home of Henry Michellnear Frazer. Dwelling totally destroyed. Est. $3,000 some furniture saved." A January 6 call to the Bell Telephone Office resulted in the cabinet fire being out before the Company arrived.

The John Jackson Grocery store in the Still building on King Street sustains about $500 in damage April 1. John Trego's barn near Devault was a total loss August 23 due to there being no water. Mrs. Samuel Rennard's straw stock fire was out by the time the Company arrived October 24.

Chief Nolan recorded twelve calls in 1922, the most notable fire being that of Supplee's Hardware Store (now Quann's Hardware) at about 3 a.m. on January 24.

"Malvern, on the Main Line, reports today that it has just had the greatest fire in its history. From three o'clock until seven this morning, the local fire company aided by those from Paoli and Berwyn, fought valiantly to save the Supple Hardware Company's building, on East King Street. The brick front of the structure is intact, but the frame interior and rear are gone, with a large stock of paints, oils and tool, and supplies.

"It is estimated that the entire loss is not less than $20,000. The building was erected about twenty-five years ago... (DLN) Chief Nolan reported 22 calls in 1923. On fire were woods, barns, homes chimneys, trees, a grass field, a freight warehouse, sheds, garages, and the Berwyn Keystone Garage. For a fire at the Stewart and Wilson farms in East Whiteland April 20, the Chief noted "Distance 10 miles. Six min. in service. Worked 3 hrs. 400 ft. hose laid out. Pumper in service."

On July 24, the newspaper reported "A handsome new double tank chemical engine has been received by the Malvern Fire Company and it is now ready for service in the house of that organization. It is to be used in answering calls to the country district where there is not water available for the pump of the company. It is a most up-to-date machine and adds much to the equipment of the firemen there." (DLN)

During 1926 the Trustees "built an Auditorium, and Apartments in rear of Firehouse. We have enlarged the Apparatus Room and installed toilets and lights, improved type folding doors have been put on the Firehouse."

The 1926 Trustees' report noted the following property; 1 Seagrave Pumper, 1 Reo Chemical, 2000 ft. good hose, 4 pair black boots, four pair white boots, 8 helmets, 50 pounds of soda, 1 Hale Pumper, 1 Hose cart with 500 feet of hose, 1 pool table, 11 black coats and 2 drivers' coats.

The 1930s

The decade of the 1930s saw two significant events of opposite impact. The first, in 1931, was a tragic fire truck accident. The second was the 51^st Anniversary of the Company in 1939. These events occurred against the backdrop of many other day-to-day decisions and events.

Three headlines topped the lead story on the front page of the Daily Local News on March 24, 1931. "5 FIREMAN KILLED 11 HURT WHEN BIG TRUCK CAREENS AND CRASHES AT MAL VERN." "Greatest Tragedy in Years Takes Heavy Toil of Life When Car Plunges Into Ditch, Crushing Victims to Death; Father of Youth Falls Dead on Learning of Son's End" and "Physician Arrives at Scene of Disaster and Renders First Aid. While Passing Motorists Bring Injured to the Homeopathic Hospital, Here; Sorrow Sweeps Community as Sudden Deaths Strike Deeply in to Life of Borough"

To this day, this tragedy is discussed quietly and hesitantly. It was the one time in 100 years of Malvern Fire Company history when lives were lost in the line of duty. A few quotations from the extensive newspaper coverage will suffice to describe the tragedy.

"Death rode with a squad of Malvern volunteer firemen last evening as they rushed to fight a blaze.

"Five of their number had their lives crushed out and eleven others were injured, two seriously, when their speeding apparatus overturned while rounding a sharp curve.

"Four of those killed were youths and the fifth a middle-aged man. All were killed instantly.

"Not content with this terrific toll of human life, death added to the tragedy by taking the father on one of the accident victims, whose heart stopped when he learned of his son's terrible fate.

"As a result of the tragedy, Malvern was plunged into deep mourning today. "Those killed in the accident were:

"William Garrett, aged 20, married, son of Mrs. Robert Garrett.

'Clifford Kilpatrick. aged 19, single, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Kilpatrick.

"Clarence Gregg, aged 25, single, son of Mrs. William Gregg.

"Clarence Matlack, 18, single, son of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Matlack.

"Charles Henry Munch (Muench) aged 50, married.

"Less than two hours after his son's broken and crushed body was brought from the scene of the accident, Percy Matlack, aged 45, dropped dead from a sudden heart attack superinduced by the shock.

"He made the sixth person to die as a result of the tragedy. The father, notified of his son's death, visited the morgue where the body lay and then walked to his home. He was stricken a short time later and died before he could be given medical aid... [Mr. Matlack was under treatment for heart problems.]

"The accident occurred on what is known as King Road, about a mile and a half west of Malvern. Persons living near the scene heard the crash of the heavy apparatus and ran to aid the victims...

"A deplorable circumstance connected with the accident was that the firemen were on their way to fight a field and brush fire which was not a particularly dangerous one...

"The fire apparatus, a large American-LaFrance model weighing several thousand pounds, was badly wrecked in the accident. Later it was righted and towed back to the village...

"Full realization of the enormity of the tragedy did not come to Malvern residents until it became their duty to Inform the parents and relatives of the victims of what had occurred. Parents and wives of those killed were overcome with the shock of the news...

"County Coroner Herbert C. Ford. of Coatesville, was notified of the tragedy by telephone and drove immediately lo the scene and took charge.

"Coroner Ford planned to hold an inquiry into the probably cause of the accident. He impaneled a jury and will hold an inquest at the Municipal building in Malvern Next Friday evening at eight o'clock..." (DLN)

The Coatesville Record reported March 28 "An open verdict was returned by a coroner's jury at Malvern last night after hearing testimony concerning the overturning of the Malvern Fire Company apparatus with the death of five men and injury to eleven others.

"'Cause of the accident unknown, according to the testimony given by witnesses,' the jury's verdict read in part. Then members of the jury went further and stated 'probably accidental.'

"Approximately 300 people attended the inquest. So much interest did the hearing arouse that it was necessary to hold it at the fire company's hall instead of at the council chamber in the municipal building. It was feared that the floor of the municipal building might give way under the weight of so many spectators."

The Trustees' minutes showed concerns for months afterwards about Insurance, compensation, and care for those firemen whose injuries were extensive.

In 1934, "the annual tri-borough firemen's memorial service in memory of volunteer firefighters of Malvern, Berwyn and Paoli who died during the past year was held at 2:30 o'clock yesterday afternoon [February 18] in the First Baptist Church at Malvern. Upwards of two hundred and fifty persons were in attendance ...There were three deaths in the fire departments of the three towns during the past twelve months, it was announced. Malvern reported one death, a member of the ladies' auxiliary. .."(CR)

Malvern Fire Company's 51st Anniversary was celebrated March 25, 1939. 'More than two hundred persons, members of the Malvern Company, their families and friends, joined in a celebration Saturday evening at the firehouse, Malvern, in honor of the fifty-first anniversary of the fire company and the burning of the mortgage of the firehouse.

"The affair was one of much pleasure and jubilation, the completion of a long period of efficient service to the community and the end of an extended effort to clear the home of the fire company of all debt...

"The main speaker of the evening was Rev. Ethan M. Thomas, chaplain of the Delaware County Firemen's Association. He congratulated the company upon its 'long period of efficient and humanitarian service, and gave credit to the Ladies' Auxiliary of the company which has made much of the progress of the company possible...

'The menu was prepared and served by Chester Valley Grange and the guests were seated at long tables beautifully decorated with ferns and potted plants. The flowers were donated by B.J. Passmore{now Gable's} and L. Bisset [now McDonough's]. The delicious menu included fruit cup, celery, olives, coleslaw, roast turkey, rolls, butter, cranberry sauce, filling, lima beans, corn, mashed potatoes, ice cream, home-made cake, coffee, nuts and mints. A beautiful bouquet of lilies and gladioli were on the speakers' table. A toy fire engine was at 'each place as a souvenir of the occasion. Mrs. John Kent Kane was chairman of 'arrangements for the banquet. The invocation was given by Henry C. Hollowell.

"During the evening community singing was enjoyed, with Norman Heintzelman as leader, and Mrs. Heinzelman at the piano. A number of songs were composed by Mr. Heintzelman and sung to popular tunes." (DLN)

Later In 1939 the Company fully participated in the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Borough of Malvern. An August 25 parade involving many fire companies was held along with a housing of the Company's new squad wagon.

"The new apparatus in reality is of the general utility type and most valuable to the volunteer firemen, especially in small communities. Fred Thomas, Chief of the Malvern Company, points out that it will save the use of more costly equipment in responding to fires of minor natures, such as field and woods fires, overheated chimneys, etc. The new apparatus was built to the specifications of the Malvern Company, who spent close to two years in perfecting and working out designs to fit their particular needs. Besides being equipped with powerful water pumps, it carries a complete electric lighting plant, booster tanks, hose for same, high powered flood lights, numerous small fire fighting gear, besides comfortably seating sixteen men, in addition to the driver...

"Firemen from Berwyn and Paoli will officially conduct the housing ceremonies.

Later there will be dancing in the fire hall, another band concert and another evening of amusements at the Fire Company fair." (DLN)

The 1940s

World War II had its impact on the Malvern Fire Company. At the February 23,

1942 Trustees' meeting, they "executed the purchases of seven U.S. Defense Savings Bonds at $74.00 per bond to mature in 12 years at $100.00.

Chief Fred H. Thomas reported there were 75 fires in 1943 to a January, 1944, Borough Council meeting.

In August, finance committee chairman James Rapp "announced the purchase of a resuscitator, inhalator and aspirator, which is the very latest in life saving equipment. This piece of equipment, costing over $400, was paid for by the merchants and citizens of the community of Malvern. This apparatus is housed at the Fire Hall and is available for use free of charge to anyone who needs it.

"A group of the firemen are now being trained lo operate the equipment so that there will be an experienced operator available 24 hours daily. Arrangements are also being made to have a trained nurse accompany this first aid equipment where needed." (DLN)

The Trustees' Annual Report for 1943 indicated the purchase of seven bonds to mature in 10 years at $100 each and War Risk insurance at a cost of $18.48.

Officers for 1944 included President James Rapp, Sr. and Chief Fred H Thomas. (DLN)

A December 14, 1945 article reported that "An up-to-date and fully equipped ambulance has recently been added to the equipment of the Malvern Fire Company, A trained crew is ready to receive calls 24 hours daily. It has been the policy of the company to give constant efficient service to the community and through this new addition this service will be even more complete.

"The ambulance is also equipped with an E and J resuscitator, inhalator, and aspirator.

"The town and surrounding territory is proud of the efforts of the company in their new venture of service to the community." (DLN) Reportedly the first ambulance was a 1934 Nash, kept in service for one year for 200 subscribers. (EB)

A December 9, 1946 clipping said, "Fire Chief Fred Thomas, reports that during the past month, the company had been called to nine fires." (DLN)

One of them was H. Allison Fosnocht's home on First Avenue which was partially destroyed by fire on Thanksgiving Day, 1946. It was reported in an unidentified newspaper that "One neighbor rescued the Thanksgiving turkey which was on the kitchen stove and which the Fosnocht family later ate after the fire was extinguished and they returned to the house."

During the final night's festivities of the July fair, a Kelvinator refrigerator was awarded at midnight, a five piece lace bedroom set at l2:30 a.m. and the grand prize, a 1946 Chevrolet sedan, at 1 a.m. The refrigerator was chanced off to raise funds for a new ambulance. (DLN)

Two April fires in 1947 made the newspaper headlines. The first, April 5, threatened an 80-man dormitory at the Layman's Retreat. Four hundred trees were destroyed and 15 acres of grass burned off. The fire was fought by Malvern and five other companies for 90 minutes on Good Friday afternoon. Six hundred men were on the grounds for a retreat. (PI)

The second, April 27, was reported in an unidentified newspaper as a 2 a.m. call at Rusticraft, with about $3,000 in loss. "Frequently tramps who follow the railroads have slept in that place, which adjoins the railroad, and it is believed that one of these itinerants is responsible."

In February, 1947 it was reported that "The Malvern Fire Company members are working hard at tearing out the Fire Hall in order to remodel the entire building. New machines which have been ordered are expected sometime in the early Spring, and the building is being made ready for them. The architect on the job is William Allison, a Malvern resident, while a West Chester contractor has the job of rebuilding. A recreation room for the use of the members of the Fire Company is planned." (DLN) Another car was chanced off during the 1947 fair, given by the Dalton- Wanzel American Legion Post 646, of Paoli.

The Green Tree Elementary School! suffered an estimated $250,000 loss in April, 1948. The ten-classroom, two-story building was located in Willistown Township. (DLN)

A June, 1948, housing was described as follows: "Five hundred people viewed the ceremonies last Friday night at the Firehouse when the Malvern Fire Company housed their new Mack 750-qallon pumper.

Chief Fred H. Thomas reported In January, 1949, that the total fire damage in the borough for 1948 "amounted to only $50." (DLN)

The 1950s

A February 28 article from an unidentified newspaper described the fire of six houses in Cedar Hollow, which left 32 homeless, and was an estimated loss of over $10,000. In August, a headline read, "Locomotive fire closes 3 of PRR Tracks in Malvern." An engine, pulling 75 cars, burst into flames, with an estimated loss of $40,000. "Firemen working around the burning locomotive were endangered by the speeding freights and passenger trains which rushed by on the adjoining tracks" (UMLN)

A $100,000 fire at the Willisbrook Farm, Sugartown Road, was reported August 25 and a $50,000 fire at the William Nassau, Jr. estate, Swedesford Road, Paoli, October 27. (UMLN) The Chester Valley Country Club suffered a fire early in December, with a loss estimated at between $75,000 and $100,000. (DLN) Reportedly, the company bought a 1941 LaSalle ambulance in 1950, in service for one year.

The present, active Malvern Fire Company Ladies' Auxiliary was established January 25, 1950. Many of the women who founded the Auxiliary are still very active today, still enjoying the work they do to support the company. The Charter meeting was attended by 25 women and six men.

A fire in July, 1951 in the rear annex of the Malvern Farm Supply was an estimated loss of $5,000. "Fire Police, on the job quickly, had trouble controlling spectators." (UMLN)

In March, the Trustees recommended "that the dog [reportedly a Dalmatian] be kept in the old engine room. Running loose in engine room, has caused scratches on trucks, and shoes and boots have been chewed on."

The Upper Main Line News reported June 8 that "A beautiful new Pontiac Ambulance for the Malvern Fire Company arrived at the Firehouse on Monday fully equipped with resuscitator, stretchers and everything needed for first aid. 

"Malvern's vehicle, paid for out of the Fire Company's Ambulance Fund, is the latest in a series of recent equipment purchased by Fire Companies of the Upper Main Line." In 1959, ambulance protection was provided to 1,400 homes in Malvern, East Whiteland, Willistown and Charlestown.

A list of apparatus was included in the ad. ..."Our apparatus includes a 1951 Pontiac Ambulance, a 1946 Mack 750 GPM pumper in excellent condition; a 1939 Chevrolet Squad Truck, in good condition: and a 1931 LaFrance, although in apparent good condition for its age, it should be replaced to continue your proper fire protection. To do so will cost approximately $15,000."

An unidentified newspaper reported April 29, 1953 a fire at Quann's Hardware, with an estimated loss of $20,000. The Auxiliary voted September 28 to donate $250 to the Company for equipment for presentation at the October 24 banquet.

A December 14, 1954 newspaper report described the 1 a.m, lire at St. Joseph's Hall at the Layman's Retreat. The building was gutted, with an estimated loss of $100,000. In the pouring rain, firemen fought the blaze, laying hose to the lake at Malvern Prep. (DLN)

A Borough Council meeting report April 9 in the newspaper noted an appeal from the Company. "A spokesman for the fire company appealed for more funds.

A new $20,000 pumper is to be delivered shortly to replace the 20 year old pumper, now obsolete. The fire company has received only $300 in its current equipment drive, and is desperately in need of funds. There have been more fires in the borough and surrounding townships so far this year than in all of last year.

An Upper Main Line News picture [July 30 ] taken by Betty Burke, showed the Company's new Mack 750-gallon fire engine being tested, using water from the Malvern Prep Lake. "The new truck carries an additional 500 gallons of water and is first on the Main Line with a rockwood loam and wetwater system specially installed by the Malvern Fire Department."

A three-car frame garage at the Point Comfort Nursing Home on King Street caught fire and suffered damage estimated at between $2,000 and $3,000, according to a June 16, 1955 newspaper account.

A newspaper report of February 23, 1956 reported that the "Malvern Fire Co. members voted to purchase four two-way radios and to Install a base station in the engine house...

"Fire Chief John J. Buffington reported 179 alarms were answered in 1955.  Only 22 were in the borough. The ambulance was called into service 179 times last year, covering 3,690 miles."

A June 2, 1958 newspaper report described a "set" fire. "Volunteers from the Malvern Fire Company spent Saturday afternoon burning down a vacant house on Old Lincoln Highway in Malvern which had been the subject of many complaints from residents of the area. (DLN)

"Children of the neighborhood frequently played around the building which was dangerous due to the conditions of the floors and walls. The Acorn Iron Supply Co., Philadelphia, owner of the building and surrounding land, agreed to have the fire company destroy it.

The 1960s

A March 16 newspaper account described a fire in a three-story apartment on the north side of East King and Third Avenue. Seventy-live men with 12 trucks fought the fire for 2 1/2 hours. (DLN)

Mrs. Peirson reported at the June 26, 1961 Auxiliary meeting that the group had purchased a cigarette license for $1, good for one year. The Auxiliary voted to buy 500 feet of hose for the new truck, at a cost of $600.

The G V Gazette May 31,1962 account of the fire in the southern section of the Paoli Shopping Center put the loss at close to $1 million.

A December 2 ,1963 Auxiliary meeting, postponed a week from the regular night, opened with a moment of silent prayer for the late President John F. Kennedy.

The 75th Anniversary festivities were dramatically interrupted by the Malvern Farm Supply fire which was reported in the Daily Local News June 12, 1964.

"Fire, out of control for more than an hour yesterday afternoon swept through the old Malvern Farm Supply building and threatened the Malvern Post Office, only 12 feet from the structure," began Bill Hauck's article.

"However, the efforts of more than 200 volunteers from six companies confined the blaze to the wooden structure, which ran about three-quarters of a block on King St., at Powelton Ave.

"Fire Chief John J. Buffington estimated the damage at more than $100,000.

He said that $70,000 of the loss was material stored in the building by the Plastomatic and Liquid Nitrogen Co's. both of Malvern...

Plans were announced at the March Auxiliary meeting for a chartered, 40-person bus trip June 26 to the World's Fair in New York. The cost was $7 per person, plus the $1.50 admission. The Ladies' Auxiliary Marching Unit placed first at an East Whiteland parade.

At the September 27 Auxiliary meeting, it was noted that the Company neglected to invite the Ladies to its September 19 picnic. Plans were announced for bus transportation to the October 2 annual banquet at Kimberton. The Auxiliary decided there would be no gift to the Company until the differences

were settled. However, the Ladies fixed sandwiches and beverages for about 50 firemen October 10 following a fire fighting demonstration.

A September 30. 1965 Suburban Advertiser picture showed the new $12,000 Cadillac ambulance with committee members Charles 0. Bennet and Jerry and Joseph LeBresco. The V.F.W. Auxiliary Post 5203, Paoli, purchased sheets, pillow-cases and blankets for the new ambulance. (DLN)

The Auxiliary voted In May ,1966 to give the Company permission to withdraw money in a joint account to purchase a quonset hut for storing supplies and voted to donate $500 to the Company at the annual banquet.

The loss was estimated at $750,000 after the Immaculata College field house fire as reported in the November 18, 19S7 Daily Local News Representatives of the Junior Women's Club of Malvern were pictured in the June 16, 1969 Daily Local News presenting two scoop litters to Ambulance Service Chairman David Magee

"The condition of the building was pointed out in a story In the Daily Local News on Thursday." (DLN)

In April, 1959 the Auxiliary agreed to donate $1,000 to the Company towards the purchase of a new ambulance, a Pontiac "Criterion." Additional equipment in 1959 included a 1931 American LaFrance 500-gallon pumper used only in town, a 1947 Mack 750-gallon pumper with a 300-gallon booster, a 1956 Mack 750-gallon pumper with a 500-gallon booster, a 1951 Pontiac ambulance, and a 1952 Chevrolet emergency-rescue truck. In 1959, ambulance protection was provided to 1,400 homes. (EB)

The 1970s

Damage from the September 1, 1979 lire at the Harry Siravo home on First Avenue was estimated at $30,000. (DLN)

A fire at J & L Building Materials, Inc., Broad Street, on April 22, 1971 kept 64 men and nine pieces of equipment from Malvern and Paoli in service for almost two hours. Stacks of insulating boards were destroyed and a portion of the galvanized roof was damaged, in March, the Auxiliary voted to buy a generator for the Company, at a cost of approximately $1,200.

A Daily Local News photograph and story April 16 publicized the May 8 firemen's parade and housing, The first Malvern housing in 28 years, according to Chief John Mullen, the article explained a housing as "a traditional event when fire fighters from communities are invited to escort the new pieces of equipment into the firehouse, officially designating them as part of the fire company."

The parade included 74 pieces of equipment from 41 companies, including Malvern's horse-drawn 1903 gasoline engine. East Whiteland firemen housed the week-old 1971 Mack 1250-gallon pumper, 1968 Dodge field truck and the1968 and 1970 Cadillac ambulances.

The Auxiliary made a donation of $1,000 to the Company at the November 18 banquet.

The Betsy Ross Candy Company, Paoli, had a fire in February, 1973 (SA) and Fisher Feed Company, Malvern, had a devastating fire in July. The July 21 newspaper report described the 3:45 a.m. fire, with its accompanying explosions '' from stored grain and gasoline in trapped vehicles, as a $200,000 loss. To the'' firefighters from the eight companies on the scene, the Auxiliary served iced tea, lemonade, grape drink, coffee, doughnuts, sandwiches, cigarettes and cigars, and matches, to replace the wet ones in their pockets.

In October, the Auxiliary voted to donate $500 to the Company and a bronze plaque with the Fireman's Prayer.

The Phelps School had a fire in March, 1974 with an estimated loss of $15,000-$18,000. Ten years later, in February 1984, another fire destroyed a two-story barn, estimated loss of $95,000.

A blazing fire at Better Plastic, Inc, King and Bridge Streets, resulted in an estimated loss of $50,000 to the two-story building.

The Lincoln Furniture Store, Frazer, suffered a $100,000 fire loss New Year Eve, 1977. (DLN) Charleston Greene Apartments lost four end units under construction to a $40,000 fire in September 1973. (Suburban) The 61-year old St. Joseph's Mission Church chapel was a total loss in June, 1979. The damage to the Devault landmark was estimated at $100,000. Jones Disposal Malvern had a $500,000 loss to fire in October, 1979.

The 1980s

The popular Charlie Brown's Restaurant burned down in Paoli in June, 1981 (DLN) A tragic house fire in East Whiteland in August, 1983, resulted in the loss of five lives, prompting a very intense smoke detector awareness in the area.

(DLN) The Firehouse Restaurant, Frazer, suffered a lire loss estimated at over $250,000 the day after Thanksgiving, 1983, People living on the top floor escaped, which was attributed to working smoke detectors. (DLN) Wolpert's Main Line Animal Inn, Matthews Road, had a $90,000 kennel loss to fire in January 1985, (DLN) The Francis Lewis house was destroyed in Willistown in February 1985. (DLN)

The eighties were highlighted by the move to the new $550,000 firehouse on the borough watershed property, south of King Street at the eastern end of the borough. Work on fund drives and fund raisers consumed the time and energy of everyone connected with the Malvern Fire Company during the late 1970s and the 1980s.

After 94 years of off-and-on looking for a site other than the original Church Street property, the bursting-at-the-seams Company was able to have enough building and land to accommodate all of its needs and functions: a four-bay station with a meeting room for the Company and rentals, a kitchen, members recreation room, administrative offices and bathrooms with showers.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place July 15, 1981. Presidents of the Company and the Ladies' Auxiliary then were Joe LeBresco. Sr. and Mrs. Martha Stebbins. Dick Rambo and George Lamb chaired the building committee. T.G Whitley was the architect and C. Donald Cox, the builder.

National, state, county and local government officials, visiting firemen, service area residents and the Company thoroughly enjoyed the September 18 celebration of the completion of four years of planning, fund-raising and building.

Once again the 1903 gasoline pumper was drawn by horses in the parade of 74 pieces of equipment from Sugartown Road, the western boundary of Malvern Borough, to the eastern boundary, the new firehouse. A flag pole donated by the V.F. W. Post 5203, Paoli, and the old fire bell from the original firehouse stand s sentinels outside the new structure. (SA)

At a December 21, 1987 ceremony with Mrs. Nancy Schule standing in for her husband, U.S. Rep. Richard T. Schulze, Malvern Fire Company Chief Gerald P. Vaughn was one of eight people to receive the Congressional Medal of Valor for his part in extricating a seriously injured teenager from a burning car, following an accident. This medal is given "when an individual goes above and beyond the call of duty—to help out another person, even when the situation could endanger his own life." (Inquirer, 1/28/88)

in February, 1988, Pennsylvania Rep. Robert J. Flick presented a House of Representatives Citation to Company members Joe LeBresco, Sr„ Jim Rapp, Craig Patton and Dave Mellinger, Jr. for their work in rescuing two people in a $95,000 house fire in November, 1987.

The 1990s

The 2000s

The earth-shattering events of September 11, 2001 had a profound effect on the Malvern Fire Company, just as it did with many other first responder organizations. Respects were paid, and the Fire Company held its first 9/11 memorial ceremony on September 11, 2002.

A near-miss fire in the Rustmont Development in December of 2003 was the first look at how modern, lightweight construction materials now in wide use could fail catastrophically under fire conditions. The middle of the row townhome in the 100 block of Putney Lane was site to a massive structural collapse during an early morning fire that involved the roof and both floors. All firefighters were able to escape unharmed.

Gerald Vaughn served as Fire Chief for the years of 2000-2005.  Paul Wilkins served as Fire Chief from 2006-2010.  Nick Campbell served as the EMS Chief for the entire decade.  Joe Lebresco served as President of the Fire Company during 2000 until 2006.  Gerald Vaughn served as the President in 2007 and John Rychlak served as President for the years of 2008-2010.  During the decade the company ran approximately 370 fire or rescue responses, and 2,400 EMS responses per year, with the EMS calls steadily increasing towards the end of the decade.

In September of 2005, shortly after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, Louisiana and surrounding areas, the Malvern Fire Company EMS, as part of the Pennsylvania EMS Strike Team sent personnel to assist. These career staff members and volunteers were in Louisiana from October 5 to 16.  In 2008 Hurricane Gustof ravaged this region again.  Additional personnel responded again as part of the Pennsylvania EMS Strike Team and were there from August 29 until September 8.

The Fire Company significantly updated its fleet of apparatus with a new Rescue Truck in 2004, a new Ladder truck in 2009, and replacing the rescue truck with a TAC unit in 2009. The EMS division purchased two new ambulances in 2007, and two new medic units, one in 2005 and one in 2008.

Notable fire incidents in this decade include the mentioned Rustmont fire in December 2003, the 5 alarm Dane Décor fire in June of 2006, 3 alarm prospect street fire in Phoenixville in August of 2007, 2 alarm William Henry (B Building) fire in April of 2008, and the Valentines Day fire alarm upgraded to a working fire on Warren Avenue in 2009.

Other notable incidents attended were the October 2009 Chester County Task Force activation for a Barn fire at Ryerss Farm in Warwick Township and the transfer assignment to Montgomery County Station 56 during the 8 alarm highrise fire in Conshohocken in August of 2008.

The Malvern Fire Company’s ALS Paramedic Program celebrated its 10 year Anniversary in December of 2008, marking a decade of advanced life support service to the community.

In June of 2009 the Malvern Fire Company was honored for it’s commitment to training and firefighter safety by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. The company was recognized as a Participating Department in the Voluntary Fire Service Certification Program. The Company was recognized at the Silver level of participation, meaning that 75% of the firefighters, 18 years of age and older had completed the Firefighter I training program.

Closing Comments

There is no way to recount the man-hours put into this Company in service and fund-raising by the active members, Ambulance crew and Fire Police. Dedicated members are on call twenty-four hours a day, year round. Loss of sleep, holiday, family, and worth time, the danger, smoke inhalation, and injuries mean nothing when the Company has saved a life or minimized fire damage. Even when lives and property have been lost, the Company has done its very best with the courageous and dedicated professionalism for which volunteers are known.

From the first fair and help on the bucket brigades in 1888, to the fairs, bingo games, covered dish suppers, catered dinners and bake sales today, the women of Malvern have been significant contributors of money, equipment and work to the Company. No one could possibly count the cups of coffee, doughnuts, casseroles, hams, pancakes, hot dogs, sodas, bingo games and dirty dishes the members of the Ladies' Auxiliary have taken care of with so much enthusiasm and commitment year after year.

There are so many bonds that tie all of these volunteers together—bonds of dedication, fund-raising, pride, service to people in emergency situations, danger, and memories.

Nancy B. Schmitt, Chairman
Malvern Historical Commission

July, 1988