In 1860, Ordinance 7 allowed Westerville to have 25 full-time firefighters, with volunteers who came when called by a bell. That’s a far cry from today’s 88 firefighters at three different stations, who use high-tech engines and hoses to keep residents safe.
In 2010, the Westerville Division of Fire will recognize its past, present and future with a year-long celebration honoring its 150th anniversary. Several anniversary events will take place through the year, beginning with the Night of Heroes Gala Feb. 20. This event begins at 6 p.m. at the Villa Milano Banquet & Conference Center, 1630 Shrock Rd.
“It truly is focusing on the fire division, and focusing on the community, too. It’s to recognize the people involved in Fire Service,” says John Bokros, a battalion chief and gala PR committee member.
Guests can look forward to an evening hosted by NBC4 news anchor Cabot Rea, a Westerville resident, and enjoy entertainment by singer/songwriter Eric Gnezda. A silent auction will benefit the Firefighters Memorial in First Responders Park, which is under construction next to the firehouse, says Mayor Kathy Cocuzzi, who is also a member of the gala’s PR committee.
“We’ve been working on this project for two years now, and seeing the contributions made and hearts we’ve touched for 150 years has been the coolest thing,” Bokros says.
Also this year, the Sound the Siren Expo and Muster will be held Aug. 14 at Hoff Woods Park, and the Fire Prevention Week Open House “Grillin and Chillin” event will take place Oct. 3. These events are open to the public.
“We are viewing this as a community celebration,” says firefighter and paramedic Brian Miller, who is also co-chairperson for the gala.
Mostly community members, not firefighters, comprise the gala’s planning committee, and these residents are looking forward to recognizing the division’s service. For Bokros, it is meaningful they have taken the time to volunteer and get involved.
“We’re excited to celebrate the people that put their life on the line for us,” Cocuzzi says.
Tickets to the Night of Heroes Gala are $30 each and are available online. There are also private tables (which seat 10 people) for $300 and corporate sponsored tables for $350. For more information, visitwww.celebratewestervillefire150.org.
Emily Gibb is a contributing writer for Westerville Magazine.
BONUS:
Historical fun facts about the Westerville Division of Fire:
• The Westerville Division of Fire was originally named the “Franklin Fire Guards” when it was founded in 1860.
• From 1931 until 1966, the division gave free room and board to Otterbein College students who were there during the day to staff the trucks and other duties around the fire station.
• Volunteer firefighters were once called to duty by a bell in the middle of town. They knew what part of town the fire was in by the number of rings. The bell can be found hanging today above the doors of Station 11.
• During the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Uptown Westerville, the fourth of July Parade, and other special events, community members can get a glimpse into the past with the 1950 Seagraves fire truck that the division still owns.
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