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1944: The Start of Something New
Before 1938, the community of Gladwyne was still largely a rural area covering about 27% of the land in Lower Merion, but thinly populated with less than 600 homes. Most of the fire calls at that time were field fires that were mainly extinguished by either the Merion Fire Company of Ardmore, or the Bryn Mawr Fire Company. On the recommendation of the Board of Fire Underwriters, a single fire engine belonging to the Merion Fire Company was housed at the Main Line Repair Shop (Laughead’s Garage), now the site of the First Trust Bank at the intersection of Youngsford and Conshohocken State Roads.
Much like our resident’s today, the involved community felt the need for its own fire protection. In April of 1944, Stuart Bell conducted a series of town meetings to discuss the need for more adequate fire protection. Bell, a local developer, was also vital in the development of the Gladwyne Library and Civic Association. A citizens committee was formed and in September of 1944, the Gladwyne Fire Company was incorporated.
Although there was no firehouse or equipment, there was plenty of dedication and drive. A building and equipment campaign began with the goal of purchasing one new pumper and to provide adequate housing. Contributions totaling over $10,000 were obtained by March of 1946, which was the amount required under the Township Ordinance for recognition of the fire company as operational by the Lower Merion Commissioners.
1950-1960
A fund raising campaign began in the spring of 1948 and quickly picked up speed. Late in 1949, with Chief Ernest Perks in command, plans were underway for a new firehouse. Groundbreaking for our new building took place on September 20th, 1949 and on February 4th, 1950 the present firehouse was erected. In December of 1950, a new pumper was delivered which was the first unit in Lower Merion Township with a three-stage pump and high-pressure capability. A formal dedication and housing for the new truck and building was held on September 8th 1951, which marked the completion of the initial phase of Gladwyne’s development. Also dedicated that day was a new fire siren mounted atop the firehouse, donated by a local resident who lost their home to a fire.
1970-1990: Growing into Gladwyne
Throughout the years, the fire company has provided the most modern and efficient equipment possible. The fire company purchased a 1,000-gpm pumper for $40,000 while lead by Chief Alfred Culbertson in 1968. Today, an average Engine could cost six figures or more.
In 1976, the present engine bays were constructed and a modern radio system was installed. Our old engine room was converted into a recreation room for the active firefighters, and during our recent construction and renovations, it was turned into a community room for voting, town meetings, and training for our firefighters. Around that same time in 1976, the Township fire companies began purchasing specialized equipment. Gladwyne obtained our Snorkel (elevated platform), which was capable of reaching up to multi-story levels, which was becoming a popular architectural design in our area.
2000: Monumental Millenium
In 2005, under the direction of Chief Andrew Block, a total renovation of the firehouse took place. Since inception, all full-time firefighter’s shared one bedroom and had limited privacy. During the overhaul, six private bedrooms were constructed, allowing our paid staff the quality rooms they deserve. Additionally, a state of art fitness center and Chief’s personal offices were added.
Late in 2007, our 28 year old Snorkel was retired, paving the way for our newly purchased KME tractor drawn 100-foot aerial ladder. Due to the size of Ladder 24 – a sleek 59 feet – the fire company was forced to build an additional bay to store the Townships only tiller.
Following his 2011 election, Chief Blaine Leis began his tenure and revamped the specialized water rescue program. In the aftermath of two hurricanes that crippled the Gladwyne area, Chief Leis expanded our Marine units and added additional training requirements. The Gladwyne Fire Company was the first Pennsylvania State Swift-Water Rescue Type 2A Team in Montgomery County. With this unique classification, firefighters were trained in Water Rescue, Boat Operations, Advanced Line Systems, Ice Rescue and Wilderness Search.
Battling decreased membership, Chief Leis became innovative. In 2012, Gladwyne Fire Company was the first station in the Township to create a Live-In program. The program assured resident’s immediate response from qualified firefighters living in station.
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