Chief ~ Ted Mertz

In its early days, Westmoreland City only had about 50 homes and depended on Irwin or Manor fire departments for any emergencies. However, after a minor fire at the Caledonia Hotel, several citizens decided it would be best to purchase a small fire truck and fire fighting equipment. This was accomplished under the leadership of George Grieves, proprietor of the Caledonia Hotel, Andrew H. Adamson, John Wright and eleven other community members.

In 1924, Westmoreland City experienced its most disastrous fire which destroyed the Sadler Hotel. One of the firemen, John Nanno was burned to death in the blaze. As a result, on April 2, 1925 the Westmoreland City fire department was organized. The department chose A.H. Adamson as its chief and John Wright as his assistant.

In 1926, the company purchased its first fire engine, a Model T. Ford. A charter was given to the company in 1927 by Westmoreland county and by 1928 - 29 it had constructed its first permanent fire house on Main Street. In that same year, they purchased a new Seagrave pumper and found this equipment quite valuable a year later when a blaze destroyed Lazaar's store and firemen were able to save adjoining homes.

By World War II, there were sixty volunteers compared to the original fourteen. In 1938 - 39, a new building was erected and a social room added to it. In 1942, the company purchased a new Chevrolet pumper and three years later, bought a new Diamond T Squad truck for rescue operations.

In 1959, the firemen erected a four bay modern truck garage on Main Street. It was dedicated to the departed fire fighters, many of whom were the original founders. At the same time, a new Seagrave pumper was dedicated to the living members.

For more information or questions about your local department contact the Westmoreland City Fire Department at 863-9088.

Web Site updated 5/2/11