Photograph of Merritt Fire Co. No. 2, Welland, 1890
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Cameron, Chantal
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Abstract
A black and white photograph of Merritt Fire Co. No. 2, Welland, in 1890. The photograph is mounted on cardboard and features 29 men in uniform indoors. They appear to be displaying framed certificates in the front row.
Description
Merritt Fire Company No. 2 was created in 1883 when the Independent Citizens Hook and Ladder Company merged with Merritt Fire Company No. 1. In 1888 Mayor Ross, a member of the company, proposed that a band be created for drills and demonstrations. The band was formed that same year with W.A. Philips as the band’s trainer. The company was active in the community and had an annual Firemen’s Ball that required members to dress in uniform and was by invitation only.
In 1889 Charles Stapff was elected Captain of the Company. In August 1901, for reasons unknown, the Merritt Fire Company No. 2 was disbanded and all monies put in trust. The following month Chief Stapff brought together the former members and organized a new fire company at the request of the town. At this time, J.C. Macmillan was elected Captain and the name Welland Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 was chosen for the new group.