Townie Tidbits

ENGINE 50 CELEBRATES A CENTURY OF SERVICE TO CHARLESTOWN

 

On Thursday, July 26, it was a red banner day for Engine 50 in Charlestown as folks gathered up by the Monument to honor Boston firefighters, Engine Co. 50 and to celebrate a centennial celebration of the history of Engine 50  and the Winthrop Street firehouse.

Boston Fire Commissioner Joeseph Flynn delivered a speech across the street from the Bunker Hill Museum where there is now an exhibit on the Boston Fire Department and artifacts from Charlestown’s role in Boston’s firefighting history. Nearly 200 people attended, including former firefighters, department supporters and community members.

The Winthrop Street firehouse survived a proposed closure back in 1981 and earned the nickname “The People’s Firehouse #2 after the community fought the closure and deactivation of Engine 50. This helped save the house and apparatus back from the brink following a one month occupation of the firehouse between April and May 1981.

I was privileged  to have played a role at the event speaking of the successful community takeover of the firehouse and hostage-taking of the Engine 50 fire apparatus too.

I believe the 30-day siege of the firehouse made last week’s 100th anniversary possible because without it today Engine 50 would be history and the firehouse most likely luxury condos.

Charlestown remains Engine  50 Proud!

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