Fire Buffs promote the general welfare of the fire and rescue service and protect its heritage and history. Famous Fire Buffs through the years include New York Fire Surgeon Harry Archer, Boston Pops Conductor Arthur Fiedler, New York Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia and - legend has it - President George Washington.


Sunday, May 05, 2013

WARDER, MITCHELL & CO - 1867


On Jan. 12, 1867, fire struck the Warder, Mitchell & Company's reaper and mower plant in Springfield. The New York Times published a short dispatch entitled "Destructive Fire in a Manufactory" on Jan. 15 (sent via telegraph from Cincinatti on Jan. 14.) Damage was estimated at $40,000. The property was insured for half that amount.