Formation of Liberty Steam Fire Engine Company No.1

On July 5, 1881 at 8:00 AM, a devastating fire tore through the Shantz and Keeley Stove Works (Located at Main and Hall Streets and presently the site of the Spring City Electrical Manufacturing). The only means of fire protection within the brough was a bucket brigade created by the citizens. A telegram was sent to the neighboring towns of Phoenixville, Pottstown, and Norristown for assistance from their fire departments. The Philadelphia/Reading railroad provided special train cars to transport the fire departments from their respective town to Spring City. By the time they arrived, it was too late for the business as it was in ashes. Following the loss of his business, Mr. Keeley urged the council to purchase a steam engine.  He was also willing to provide $500 towards this purchase.

On July 9, 1881, the citizens of the borough met to form an organized firefighting effort for the future. At the conclusion of this meeting they would make three (3) recommendations to the borough:

1. Council should purchase firefighting equipment to be maintained by the citizens
2. Exonerate Mr. Keeley from any taxes for Ten (10) years if he would rebuild his foundry
3. Council should pay the expenses of the fire engines in service at the late fire

On January 28, 1882 the council agreed to purchase the first steam engine. This purchase was from the Silsby Manufacturing Company located in Seneca Falls, NY at a cost of $3,600.00 and remained property of the council (This Steam engine is still proudly displayed at the Liberty Steam Fire Engine Company No. 1 today). 

Later in 1881 the first engine house was built by council at the intersection of Hall and Church Street. Today, this is the site of the Spring City Borough Hall. The cost of construction was approximately $1,600.00.

On January 9, 1882 a meeting of citizens was organized. The outcome of this meeting was the formation of volunteer fire company. This company would be known as the Liberty Steam Fire Engine Company No.1 (LFC). It would become incorporated on April 24, 1882.

On April 1, 1889 the Borough of Spring City sold the steam fire engine, the hose, and all associated firefighting equipment to the LFC for $1,000.00

In 1890 the fire company purchased property located at 118 Hall Street. The LFC would construct a new engine house. It was then dedicated on July 4, 1892.

During the first years of the LFC, the steam engine and a coal cart were pulled to emergencies by way of men. In 1899 the LFC purchased a pair of horses. These horses were used daily for the business of the Adam Express Company in the twin boroughs of Spring City and Royersford until needed for an emergency.  

The Liberty Steam Fire Engine Company #1 continues to be a 100% volunteer organization that continues to provides service to Spring City Borough and portions of East Vincent Township. The Liberty Steam Fire Engine Company No.1 has provided Emergency Services to the community for over 140 years. We are located at 20 S. Main Street in Spring City borough The company currently houses a Ladder, Rescue, Engine and Traffic Unit as well as 2 Rescue Boats.

The Liberty Fire Company also provides mutual aid support to surrounding communities when called upon.

If you are interested in being involved with the Fire Department there are many jobs available such as Firefighter, Fire police, or support staff.  The department suffers during the day with volunteer shortages and are always looking for help if you are available and would like to help we would be happy to have you.  You can stop in the apparatus room on Main Street on Monday nights after 7.00 P.M. this is the night the firefighters practice and take a look around, remember we are always looking for help.

This photo, taken on October 4,1899, shows the Liberty Steam Fire Engine Company’s band as it was preparing to depart for Scranton & Allentown for a competition.
This picture was captured outside of the Washington Fire a Company of Conshohocken, PA.

REMEMBER WHAT HAPPENS IF VOLUNTEERS DIDN'T VOLUNTEER