Engine 8 in Philadelphia no more?

Tracing their roots back to a proud roster of founding fathers and fires fought, the volunteer fire companies that preceded the establishment of the Philadelphia Fire Department combined the best and worst traits of the city they served. Community-minded, innovative and tough, Philadelphia’s amateur firemen also earned a reputation for brawling, boozing and bitter rivalry equal to anything ever reported to have happened in the parking lot after an Eagles game.

After writing a series of articles on the subject, Franklin rose to the challenge. On December 7th, 1736, he and four friends founded the Union Fire Company, which survives today as Engine 8 of the Philadelphia Fire Department. One of the oldest organized fire brigades in the United States, the Union saw its ranks quickly filled to the agreed-upon maximum of 30 members. Other companies were founded by latecomers, all, according to one company’s records, “the most eminent men in Philadelphia, embracing merchants, physicians, lawyers, clergymen and citizens of wealth and refinement.” Indeed, fire company membership was a mark of honor, a sort of proxy social register of city notables from the mayor on down.

This seems to have been the case throughout the colonies; George Washington, for example, was a member of his local volunteer fire company in Alexandria, Virginia. LINK
Engine Company 8 has served Philadelphia since the colonial era. This fire company was founded by Benjamin Franklin himself and has been in continuous service ever since. They respond to over two thousand calls a year and protect our Nations heritage.

Just blocks away are such national treasures such as: Betsy Ross’ house, The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Elfreth’s Alley, Christ Church, as well as the night club district, the Delaware River waterfront including Penn’s Landing, I-95 and the Ben Franklin Bridge. As if that isn’t enough throw in the U.S. Mint, the National Constitution Center, The Quaker Meeting House and the U.S. Courthouse for good measure. Anyone who ever toured Philadelphia’s Old City surely walked past their station.

Now all these places with their thousands of citizens, employees, and tourists are left vulnerable because this city could not manage the taxpayers money properly. Engine 8 will close and Snorkel 2 will be forced to answer their calls. But since two other Ladder’s in the area are also closing as well a disaster is just a matter of time.