Antique bell to ring in fire department’s 125th anniversary

VERNON – Vernon’s fire department is reviving an artifact to celebrate its 125th anniversary this week.

The history of the department goes back to May 11, 1891 when the first fire brigade meeting was held.

To mark the occasion, the fire department has restored a bell that used to sit atop Vernon’s fire station and call fire fighters to services.

“The bell used to ring, the firefighters used to come down to the station, the horses used to back up to the station and pull wagons,” says fire chief Keith Green.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "The bell used to ring, the firefighters used to come down to the station, the horses used to back up to the station and pull wagons," says fire chief Keith Green.

They will be unveiling the bell at noon on Saturday as part of anniversary celebrations.

“It was bought in 1894 for $176. If you think about that, it’s a lot of money back then for our tax payers. To me it signifies every person that has ever served in the fire brigade, the fire department and now fire rescue services,” says Green.

“This commemorates their service and answering the bell.“

Along with unveiling the bell, Vernon’s fire department is holding an open house Saturday from 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m.

“It’s a significant milestone for any department. We are a year older than the City of Vernon. They commemorate [their] 125th next year,” says Green.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "It's a significant milestone for any department. We are a year older than the City of Vernon. They commemorate [their] 125th next year," says Green.