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History
Highlights
- 2012, November 21 – Captain Chris Good dies in the line of duty
- 2010, March 26 – The Good Will receives a 3,000 gallon tanker from Fame
- 2010, February 4 - The Good Will was awarded the 100% certification level from the PA State Fire Commissioner’s Office
- 2003, Dec – The Company moves to its new home at Union and Bolmar
- 1989 – Firefighters no longer allowed to ride the tailboard
- 1986 – The Company purchased its first computer
- 1970 – First Apprentice firemen were accepted into the Company
- 1943 - There are 63 active members of Good Will Fire Company serving in the Armed Forces.
- 1905 – First WCFD LODD
- 1901, May 18 – First bunk-in
- 1897, October - East Gay St. building completed
- 1846 - The Good Will Fire Company was incorporated.
- 1837 – The Neptune Company changed their name to Good Will Fire Company upon the purchase of an Engine from the Good Will Fire Company of Philadelphia
- 1833, April 30 - The “Neptune” Company’s first fire
- 1833, January 26 - The “Neptune” Company was permanently organized
- 1833, January 9 – Initial meeting to form a “New Fire Company”
Details
2012
The Good Will responded to 287 calls in 2012.
Nov 21 – Captain Chris Good dies in the line of duty after battling a house fire the previous evening.
2011
The Good Will responded to 429 calls in 2011.
2010
The Good Will responded to 474 calls in 2010.
Feb 4 – The Good Will was awarded the 100% certification level from the PA State Fire Commissioner’s Office
Mar 26 – At 3:00 pm Tanker 53 (Fame) became Tanker 52 (Good Will). The 3,000 gallon tanker has been in the WCFD Fleet since 1990 and was assigned to the Fame Fire Co #3 in 1990.
Apr 21 – At 7:00 pm the PA State Fire Commissioner Ed Mann made a public presentation to the Good Will Fire Company for achieving the 100% certification level from the PA State Fire Commissioner's Office.
Jun 6 – Members of the Good Will participated along with the rest of the WCFD and other regional departments in the annual regional task force drill, hosted by WCFD. Companies participated in multiple scenarios including a building fire drill, a hot air balloon crash, a standpipe operations drill, and a water supply drill.
2009
The Active Crew members of the Good Will spent approximately 6,000 hours in training.
2004
Jun 5 - Good Will Fire Company Held a parade and dedication ceremony for our new station.
Oct 3 - Former NYC Mayor Rudolph Giuliani visits Good Will.
2003
Sean Mitchell of the First West Chester Fire Company is elected chief of the department.
Jun - The Good Will starts the Cadet Firefighter program. The program allows 14 and 15 olds to be active members.
Dec - The Good Will moves into there brand new building located at 552 E. Union Street.
2002
Apr – The Good Will purchases back our 1952 American LaFrance for $1,500. The company spent an additional $1,500 to have it shipped back to West Chester. The unit was an active piece of apparatus in Good Will from 1952 to 1975.
2001
The Good Will starts our web site www.goodwillfireco.org.
Good Will received the new 2000 KME/Spartan Custom Engine. The truck includes a Cummins 430 horse power engine, a Hale Q-Max 2,250 gpm top mount pump, 750 gallon water tank, 30 gallon class A and 20 gallon class B foam tanks with a Hale Foam Pro System, and a 12k generator. This engine replaced the 1982 Sutphen engine.
Sep - the Good Will approved the purchase of a 1.9-acre lot at 510 East Union Street. This lot was once the property of Wythe Laboratories and was sold to Alliance Environmental Systems Inc. Alliance sold this corner lot to the Good Will for $350,000.
September 11, 2001 - Our country began the "fight against terrorism" with many of our fellow firefighters losing their lives in the terrorist's attacks in New York and Washington, DC. Good Will Firefighter and trustee Brian Ackerman was called to active duty on October 9th.
Nov 2 - Twelve members went to New York City and attended the funeral services of two F.D.N.Y. Firefighters - Lieutenant Paul T. Mitchell of Ladder 110 and firefighter Frank Esposito - who gave their lives in the September 11 attack on the World Trade Towers.
2000
Jon Brill from he Good Will Fire Company was elected as Fire Chief of the Fire Department.
1999
The Good Will purchased the property at 38 East Gay Street for approximately $165,000. This was in hopes of expanding our operations to the east.
The company re-designed and started the purchase of new uniforms. The design included a traditional blue fire department uniform blazer with blue pants and a white uniform shirt with patches.
1998
Kevin Corcoran from Fame Fire Company was elected as Fire Chief of the Department.
The West Chester Fire Training Center broke ground on their new burn building which was to include burn rooms, a maze, store front, and garage front training scenarios.
1997
Fred Criscoulo from the First West Chester Fire Company was elected at Fire Chief for the Department.
Apr - The company approved the purchase of a used 1991 Chevy Blazer from Good Fellowship Ambulance to be used as a Squad. The cost of the vehicle was $6000 and the vehicle was turned over to the Borough for $1 to insure and maintain.
Jun - Fox News network went live in front of the Good Will Fire Company, using the station as a backdrop for their morning show and interviewing many active members.
Sep19 - The first ever Good Will Fire Company golf tournament was held at the Kimberton Golf Club.
1996
The engine room floor was re-surfaced by Criterion Floors at a cost of approximately $12,000. The company chose a bluish-gray color with a maltese cross added in the rear of the main engine room near the gear lockers.
Aug - The entire second floor received central heating and air conditioning. The engine room also received a new natural gas heating system. This replaced to old steam boiler and window air conditioners.
Oct 5 - The Good Will housed the new engine to make a triple housing parade. This housing included the First West Chester housing their new Sutphen engine and Fame housing their new Saulsbury heavy rescue.
Nov - The Good Will voted and accepted to upgrade the Scott Air Packs from the 2.2 low-pressure 30-minute packs to the 4.5 high-pressure 45-minute packs. The new packs were less weight an included a PASS (Personal Safety Device) device intergraded with the cylinder valve.
1995
Mar 8 - The Company approved the slogan: “Pride, Dedication, Valor, since 1833”. This was picked out of twenty suggestions. New company letterhead was to be designed with this slogan.
Apr - The Fire Department started to have the Hepatitis-B vaccine issued to all active firefighters. Firemen's Relief approved to pay for the three-injection vaccine.
Jun 23 - Good Will received our new Saulsbury/Spartan Custom Engine. This apparatus included a 400 horse power Detroit Engine, a Hale 2,000 gpm top mounted pump, 750 gallon water tank, a foam system with 40 gallons of class A and B foam and a 12kw generator. The cost was $358,000 and it replaced the 1975 Hahn.
1994
F. David Smiley from the Good Will Fire Company was elected as Fire Chief of the Department.
Feb - The West Chester Fire Department elected to change fire gear from Nomax to PBI material for additional protection. The new gear is to have Good Will on the top of the back, W.C.F.D. on the lower portion and the number 52 on the left sleeve.
Sep 24 - The Good Will housed the new Air/Light unit. Eight surrounding stations attended the ceremony. The apparatus was dedicated to the memory of Jesse Huber. Mr. Huber was a life member of the Good Will and held the positions of President, Assistant Fire Chief, Secretary, and Chief Engineer.
1993
The Good Will responded to 485 alarms in 1993 with a total of 267.75 man-hours in service.
1992
The Good Will approved Kenco Fabrications of Scotdale, PA to build our new Air/Light unit. The cost of the new unit was $180,000. The unit included a 20.4 CFM Baur breathing air compressor, a PTO driven 45Kw generator, 22,000 watts of portable and stationary quartz lights and it was to be mounted on an International Chassis.
Mar - The Company purchased weight room equipment and designed a portion of the basement as a "weight room".
Jul - 1,000 feet of 5-inch supply hose was added to Engine-3. This replaced 2,000 feet of 3-inch hose with 2.5" couplings.
Aug - It was decided that a green Scotchlite stripe will be added to all apparatus for visibility.
Oct - The new Air/Light arrived in station.
1991
Jim Higgins of the Fame Fire Company was elected Fire Chief of the Department.
1990
A sleeping quarters was made for the active crew to use. This facility included two sets of bunk beds that were donated by Sears Outlet in the West Goshen Shopping Center.
1989
Captain Jim McDermott instituted a policy that no longer allowed firefighters to ride the "rear step" or tail board of any apparatus. This policy occurred after several accidents across the country involving firefighters having serious injuries from riding the rear of apparatus and being involved in accidents.
Aug - The company purchased a used 1984 Horton Ambulance from Walker Emergency Vehicles in Coatesville to convert to a Squad vehicle. This vehicle was from East Lampeter Township and was purchased to carry additional personnel safely. The vehicle was painted white and lettered by the company and turned over to the Borough for $1 to provide maintenance and insurance.
Nov - The Good Will became the "only fire company in West Chester" after the First West Chester moved to their new location at Bradford and Miner Streets in East Bradford Township.
1988
Don Herb from the First West Chester Fire Company was elected at Fire Chief of the Department.
Apr - The Company approved to have automatic door openers installed for the bay doors.
1986
Assistant Chief Jim Petrondi from the Good Will was elected as Fire Chief of the Department.
Mar - The Company purchased its first computer to be used for company business.
1985
The Good Will responded to responded to 427 alarms in this year.
1984
Oct - The Company held our first meeting in our new addition to the rear of the present station. The two-story addition was completed by members and houses a meeting room and office on the second floor and the air unit on the first floor.
Dec - The Company had a fire alarm system installed. The system included rate to rise and hard-wired smoke alarms as well as an automatic phone dialing system that went directly into the West Chester Police station.
1983
Assistant Chief Robert Brice, from the Fame Fire Company, has been sworn in as the Department Chief.
Good Will boys traveled to Kimberton Fire Company Fair to participate in a softball tournament and came home with first place trophy.
Construction on the new addition has been started.
Feb - A new custom Air Unit was purchased by the Borough of West Chester and is now in service.
Jun 4 - Good Will won three second place trophies at a parade in Downingtown celebrating Minquas Fire Company's 75th Anniversary.
Jul 30 - Good Will attended a dedication and housing at Thorndale Fire Company and won two first place trophies for Best Appearing Company and Best Appearing Pumper 1979 or older, and a second place trophy for Best Appearing Pumper 1980 or newer.
Sep 10 - Good Will celebrated our 150th Anniversary and housed our new 1982 Sutphen Custom Pumper and our 1982 Reading/Ford Air Unit. Over 75 pieces of apparatus attended the parade and competed for $8,000 in cash and trophies. The Sutphen Engine was dedicated to Phil Giunta for his many years of service to the Good Will, past and present.
1982
During construction of the new West Chester Mall a new 1 ½' water line was installed into the Company.
A new Sutphen Custom pumper has been officially backed into the house.
The Good Will by-passed the Departmental Chief's position for three years. This would revert to Good Will after one term.
New uniforms were purchased for parades. They consist of dark blue pants with light blue stripe, and light blue shirts.
The Good Will donated $4,500 to the new West Chester Fire Department Training Center. The Good Will Ladies Auxiliary donated $500.
A committee was appointed to purchase the rear building adjoining the existing building. The committee consisted of James D. Petrondi, William Moyer, Raymond Street.
Oct - The rear building was purchased for $15,000. Building plans were drawn up by James B. Petrondi, Raymond Street, William Moyer, and James D. Petrondi. Plans were approved to start the new addition.
1981
Approval has been given by the executive board to build a bar with showcases to be used for horns and trophies.
New wrought iron racks have been installed in the engine room to house equipment of each fireman.
Apr 11 - The Anniversary banquet was held at the Italian Social Club at 6:00pm.
1980
The meeting room has been remodeled and is now used as a recreation room.
Feb - Assistant Chief Walter Mitchell was sworn in as Department Chief from the First West Chester Fire Company.
1979
Assistant Chief Robert Doan reported there were 304 calls answered during this year, and the Air Unit answered 93 calls.
1978
A new siren has been installed on the Bell Tower at the Company.
“Be it known that on September 13th the Underwater Recovery Unit is no longer an official unit of this Company.”
1977
Steve Conway was elected new Chief of the Department from the Fame Fire Company No. 3.
The front of the Fire Company has received a new aluminum door installed by Howell Door.
1976
Chuck Purnell has been appointed to start a letter drive to raise money for improvements to the building.
Assistant Chief Robert Doan praised the Apprentice Firemen for a good job and appearance which contributed to their first place win at Atglen and third place win at Downingtown for best appearing company.
A letter was received from Mose Cornwell praising the Good Will Fire Company for their assistance at a car fire and especially to Don Suckstorf for his assistance in transporting his wife and him to their destination.
1975
Jun 14 - The members attended a housing and parade held at the Fame Fire Company.
Aug 23 - The housing of the new Hahn Pumper took place at 3:00pm. It was a joint housing with First West Chester Fire Company who also purchased a Hahn pumper.
1974
Phil Giunta was elected Chief of the Department.
The Good Will members helped the First West Chester Fire Company celebrate their 175th Anniversary Parade.
1972
A new truck committee was appointed consisting of Lenni Osborne, Bob Barraclough and Hugh Purnell.
1971
J. Herbert Chambers, Jr., was sworn in as Chief of the Department from First West Chester Fire Company.
Forty-four new uniforms have been purchased from Mitchell's Men's Store consisting of light blue coats, black pants, navy blue tie and white gloves. They were first worn in September at the Oxford Fire Company 100th Anniversary with the Good Will acting as Honor Company.
Aug 1 - The Company housed a new air truck. The official housing team consisted of Lenni Osborne, Assistant Chief of Good Will; Dick Brosius, President of the Company and Jim Scott, of the Southern Chester County Rescue Unit.
1970
Apprentice firemen were accepted into the Fire Company. They must be 16 years of age to join.
1968
Ralph Watson, Jr., of Fame Fire Company No.3, was elected as Chief of the Department.
1967
A stationary Air Compressor Unit was purchased to help take the workload off the mobile unit.
Jan 9 - James Ferguson was voted in officially as the first Air Unit Crew Chief.
Mar 18 - A ham and cabbage dinner was served at a charge of $1.25 per person.
1966
May 9 - A new pool table was ordered from Brunswick Company for $742 complete.
Nov 14 - At the regular Company meeting a motion was voted upon proposing a new Air Unit Crew Chief Company line officer.
1965
Ray Street was elected as Chief of the Department for 3 years.
The Air Compressor has been turned over to Borough of West Chester for one dollar with a stipulation that it remains housed at Good Will Fire Company.
1964
Feb 10 - Virgil Brown was appointed in charge of the new Air Unit Truck.
Mar - The Good Will Underwater Rescue Unit was initiated into the Company consisting of five members of the Keystone Diving Association.
The Company has sent one truck and 9 men to Valley Forge Boy Scout Jamboree for standby.
Assistant Chief Ray Street was appointed by Borough Council to fill the unexpired term of John McClain, Chief of Department, who has resigned.
1963
Jul - A short discussion was given by Frank Huber concerning the pros and cons of purchasing an air compressor; the Company gave its approval to buy the compressor and for the unit to be housed at Good Will at all times.
Aug - A second hand truck was purchased to make an air compressor a mobile unit. It proved its capability by filling 43 tanks in its first two months of operation.
1962
John McClain, from the First West Chester Fire Company, was elected as Chief of the Department.
Joe and Bill Mason were appointed to go to the State Fire School in Lewistown, PA.
1961
Jun 27 - At about 12:55 am, a new 750 American LaFrance fire truck was backed into the Good Will Fire Company by Dave Turner of the American LaFrance Company. The truck was escorted to town by Asst. Chief Ray Street, Phil Giunta, Louis Davis, John Howe and James Wilgis after being driven from Elmira, New York.
Sep 16 – Saturday at 2:00 pm - The new pumper was housed with Ashton B. T. Smith as Master of Ceremonies and Alexander Hemphill, Controller of the City of Philadelphia, as guest speaker. Mayor Charles Lucas addressed the gathering followed by a welcome by Frank "Bud" Still, Chief of the West Chester Department.
1960
A new Truck Committee was appointed consisting of Ray Street, Phil Giunta, Jack Townsend, Norman Sheller, Louis Davis, James Wilgis and Herbert Ammon. Cost of the new truck will be $23,900.
1959
President Pete McCool appointed three men to represent the Company at Borough Council to elect a new Chief of the Department. Frank H. Still, from the Fame Fire Company, was elected.
1958
Jan 20 - Members of the Company celebrated their 125th Anniversary with a dinner serviced by Fame Ladies Auxiliary. A good time was held by all.
Jul 22 – The Goodies won a first place prize at the Pomeroy parade for best appearing company.
1957
A fund raising committee was appointed to raise $20,000 to renovate and repair the present building: A Charles Biscotti, Building Fund Chairman; Thomas Hoopes, Jr., Drive Chairman, with the help of Dewees Mosteller and Ashton B. T. Smith.
The membership has proposed to hold an "open house" to celebrate the completion of the remodeling. A party was held on September 14th with Goshen, Lionville, West Bradford, East and West Whiteland and the West Chester Companies being invited. A new shuffleboard has been purchased from Penn Shuffleboard Company.
1956
Herb Ammon, of this Company, was elected as chief of the Department.
President James Forwood has signed a contract with Finegan and Higgins Contracting firm for $18,500 general remodeling of the firehouse. The renovations will provide for more space and a more modern interior. Space will permit future addition of at least one more piece of apparatus. During these renovations, the Company will also install a two-way radio system to enable them to better serve the community.
1953
Edmund Cosgriff, from the First West Chester Fire Company, has been elected Department Chief.
1952
Members saw work get started this week on a new concrete floor for the engine room to replace the old wooden floor, which has been in service for many years. It was also approved to concrete the cellar from front to rear.
Mar 29 – Saturday at 3:00pm - The American LaFrance was housed. Leading the housing committee was Jesse Huber, with Ashton B.T. Smith, former Burgess of West Chester, as Master of Ceremonies and Gibbons C. Cornwell as guest speaker.
1951
A new pumper has been ordered by Borough Council from American LaFrance. It is a 750-gallon triple combination pumper with a 400-gallon booster tank at a cost of $16,500.80. It is to be delivered in the beginning of 1952.
A committee of Herb Andress, Jesse Huber, Nick Mastrangelo, Herb Ammon and Charlie Rutherford were appointed to check the condition of the engine room floor for the new pumper.
1950
Mr. Winfield Slaughter, a member of the Fame Fire Company, was elected Chief of the West Chester Fire Department.
During this year the Company initiated a sports program for its members. There would be softball teams in the spring and bowling teams for the winter months.
1948
Deep appreciation was sent out to the Salvation Army and BPOE for their "open house" following the fire at the Rialto Theater in January. The coffee and sandwiches really hit the spot and probably staved off more than one bad cold.
1947
Herbert Andress, a dedicated member of the Good Will Fire Company, was elected Department Chief of the West Chester Fire Companies.
Mr. Gibbon Logue reported a shuffleboard league will be formed and start the first of the year. Each team will put up $10 at the start of the season and the winner of the league will take all.
March 21 - Members of the Good Will Fire Company No. 2 who served in World War II were honored with a pork and sauerkraut dinner at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Jesse E. Huber acted as toastmaster.
1946
Two members have lost their lives in the line of duty. Their pictures will be mounted on the wall of the meeting room.
1945
J. McAnulla, Chief Engineer, reports the white engine is in Gibson's Garage for repair of a burnt out clutch. The red engine appears to be in good shape.
1944
J. Herbert Chambers of the First West Chester Fire Company was voted in as Chief of the West Chester Fire Department.
1943
There are 63 active members of Good Will Fire Company now serving in the Armed Forces.
1942
Mr. Andrew Simmler is now serving in the U.S. Navy. Joseph DiBlaio was voted to replace him as Assistant Engineer of the Company. It was suggested that fellows now serving in the Armed Forces be sent a carton of cigarettes.
1941
The new Chief of the Department, Ralph Watson, Sr., was elected to office from the Fame Fire Company.
1940
Chief Engineer Jesse Huber reported the results of the test performed on Sunday, September 8th, with the new pump. The engine pumped 1,070 gallons per minute through the lines at 120lbs of pressure.
A letter was received from the Homeopathic Hospital and read by the President. The letter congratulated the Company for the fine way in which the fire was put out at the Hospital on July 31. The letter also stated that an organization like this was a credit to the Community.
1939
Feb - Borough Council met and awarded a contract to American LaFrance Company of New York for a triple combination engine for Good Will Fire Co. The bid was for $8,495.37 and will be delivered at an early date.
Apr 13 - The West Chester Borough Council in session last night approved the sale of a 20-year-old piece of fire apparatus used by the Good Will Company to the Community Fire Company of Seven Valleys, York County, for $500.00.
May 19 - Led by Burgess George B. Dewees and Council President Thomas Hoopes, Jr., the new American LaFrance pumper was housed at Good Will Fire Company. After the official ceremonies an open house was conducted to members of other companies and motion pictures of the new pumper's first test at Brinton's Quarry were shown.
1938
William Finegan's resignation for 3 years was accepted as he has been elected to fill the post of Chief of the Department.
A state law has also been passed this year stating Fire Stations shall install red lights outside their building. These were installed at Good Will at a cost of $35.00.
1937
Good Will's Annual Fair, held in June, showed a net profit of $1,901.72. A good time was had by all and President Herb Andres expressed his thanks to everyone who contributed to its success. These fairs, conducted yearly by the boys from Goodies, have been most instrumental in keeping the Company in a good monetary status.
1936
William Finegan, a member of the Company, was awarded the contract for remodeling the cellar for a recreation room. There would be 18 inches of soil dug out which would allow for an 8-foot ceiling. The finished project would measure 35'x22'x8'.
1935
William Ingram, from West Chester Fire Company No. 1, was elected Chief of the West Chester Department.
“Aside from the everyday duties of a fireman, much of these years were spent planning extensive renovations. They also had to find a solution on the moving of the stairway to the second floor to the rear of the Fire House. Blueprints are being drawn up and as much of the work that can be done will be taken on by the members themselves. Several committees have been assigned and work will commence as soon as possible.”
1934
Apr 8 - At a recommendation of Borough Council, it was suggested that the position of Fire Chief be shortened from 5 years to 3 years. It was moved and seconded by the members at Good Will.
1933
Jan 25 - The 100th Anniversary Banquet and Jubilee of the Good Will Fire Company No. 2 was held “with much éclat and unlimited pleasure” by 265 officers and members and their guests, who gathered at four long tables spread in the dining room of the New Century Club House. Among the honored guests were Burgess George J. Brinton, Chief Fire Marshall George J. Moses and Mrs. Moses, former President of the Good Will Fire Company Harry B. Wills and Mrs. Wills, Dr. and Mrs. Charles W. Heathercote, Frank Heed, President of Fame Fire Company No. 3, President Percy H. McCormick of the West Chester No. 1 and Mrs. McCormick. Henry B. Wills, who was President of the Company from 1912 to 1925, congratulated the Company and lauded the firemen for their valor and heroism. He spoke of the firemen's work at the Lipkin Overall Factory, the McLaughlin Livery Stable and the Buckwalter Apartment sin years gone by. Percy McCormick, of the First West Chester, presented to the Good Will Fire Co. a large, silver loving cup filled with beautiful red roses and sprays of ferns. President Frank D. Heed, of Fame Company No. 3, presented a large, silver column, surmounted by a fireman responding to a call on duty as a token of esteem. Dancing concluded the Anniversary celebration.
1932
Nov 14 - Two card tables and eight chairs were purchased from Goldberg's for $92.00.
1931
Mar 9 - A motion was passed to accept the Bell Telephone Fire Alarm System.
1930
A committee was appointed to elect a new Department Chief and George Moses, of Fame Fire Company, was elected.
1927
The Good Will Fire Company has been notified by Borough Council that their new truck should be available by the middle of December. Herbert Andress is serving as Chairman of the Apparatus Committee.
Dec 22 - The new apparatus arrived at the Good Will Fire Company and was tested and approved by its members.
1926
“This proved to be a good year for the "Goodies." Chief Engineer Adams reported all apparatus in good working condition and [the Company] had responded to 50 calls for the year.”
1925
William Huber, of the Good Will Fire Company, was elected to serve as Chief of the Fire Department with Joseph Cassidy to fill the vacancy of Assistant Chief caused by Huber's resignation. William Huber was presented a gold badge by President Andress on behalf of the Company.
1923
The following report was given by the Chief Engineer for the year: 52 calls answered, 22 tanks of chemicals used, 17 hand extinguishers, 5,700 feet of hose laid, 217 gallons of gas used and 15 gallons of oil.
1922
The matter of organizing a County Firemen's Association was discussed at the April meeting. The committee chose delegates H.B. Wills, Clarence Brown, William Huber and Frank Finegan to attend the meeting later in the month.
Three delegates were appointed to meet with Borough Council Fire Committee to elect a new Chief of the Department. They were instructed to vote for the candidate from West Chester Fire Company No. 1, Charles Frame, to fill the unexpired term of Chief Woodward.
1921
It was voted for the Treasurer to draw a donation of $5.00 to Glen Moore Fire Company and $250.00 to the Good Will Baseball Club.
1920
Roscoe Woodward, from West Chester Fire Company No. 1, was elected Chief of Department of West Chester.
A rising vote of thanks was extended to Frank Simmler and his bride for ice cream and cake at the May 10th monthly meeting.
"Goodies" pump got a good workout at C.E. Mather's farm fire. They were in service about 27 hours, used 3 gallons of oil, 43 gallons of gas and laid 1,300 feet of hose.
1919
The new motorized pump arrived at Good Will Fire co. on April 26th and was housed on May 3rd with First West Chester, Fame Fire Company, Fire Police Chief Griffith and his assistants all taking part in the ceremony. The Engine House was also decorated in honor of the returning soldiers.
Apr 30 - The new pump was tested at Milltown, pumping 915 gallons per minute.
1918
Dec 9 - The company had life-size pictures taken of the members killed in France, also an Honor Roll was made up of all members in the Service with gold stars after the names of those killed, and silver stars after those wounded in service to their country. William Underwood and Herbert Andress were appointed to attend to this matter.
1917
On the front of the Good Will Fire Company No. 2 Engine House of the “there was displayed a large service flag, bearing 27 stars, indicating the number of members of the organization who are in Military Service of Uncle Sam.”
May 15 - The Good Will was the recipient of a patent device called the Morgan Smoke Helmet presented to them by the Women's Auxiliary of the Fame Fire Company.
1916
The Chief Engineers report showed a total of 36 alarms for the year - 16 of them out of town. They used 1,120 gallons of soda and acid for the fires and laid 4,300 feet of hose.
1915
Harry Griffith was elected Chief of Department from Fame Fire Company.
1914
A committee of six men was appointed to learn to be chauffeurs for the new motorized truck to arrive later in the year. They were: L.W. Davis, James Brown, William Huber, Milfor Battering, George Ford and Edward Finegan.
A Martin Chemical truck was housed on August 1st. Thanks were given to Fame for their contribution of a horn and to First West Chester for their loving cup. Special thanks were also given to Mr. Chalfont for his donation of the horn for the auto and to Martin Carriage Works for their speedometer and clock on the auto.
1913
About 75 members of the Good Will Fire Company #2, headed by the Fife and Drum Corps, left West Chester last evening on the 6:30 trolley for Downingtown where they were the guest of the Alert Fire Company Fair.
1912
New uniforms were purchased for Goodies from Wanamaker & Brown Uniform Company. Avondale Fire Company purchased 17 of the old uniforms for $124.50.
Mar 14 - A banquet was held at Turks Head Inn in honor of Good Will Fire Company and Fame Fire Company Indoor Baseball Teams, the "Goodies" being the winners with a 4-2 record. Kimble Kugler was Manager of the team and David O'Brien was Captain.
1910
Mr. Middleton, having been elected Chief of the Fire Department, was presented with a fire helmet and horn by Past Chief, Henry Guss, John Cloud and Harry Griffith.
1909
The Good Will Fire Company also passed a resolution recommending the different companies to unite with them in electing William Middleton as Fire Chief of West Chester to succeed Henry R. Guss, of West Chester No. 1, whose term will expire in January. The Chiefs are elected for five years, the rule being to recognize each Company in turn, and the "Goodies" named Assistant Chief Middleton for the place.
Extensive renovations took place this year with stairways being reinforced, the wall and ceilings being covered with metal casing and the third story being finished to use as a storage room.
1908
Sep 5 - Members of the Good Will Fire Company, accompanied by their Drum Corp., will leave on two special trolley cards for Clifton Heights, Delaware County, where they will participate in a parade and assist in the dedication of their new Engine House. Nearly every Fire Company in Chester and Delaware Counties will be represented. Word was received in West Chester that the parade would not start until the Good Will delegation arrived.
1907
Jul 11 - Members showed their appreciation to William Middleton, Assistant Fire Chief, by presenting him with a gold medal engraved with his name and the office he held.
Oct 22 - 60 members in full uniform, and accompanied by the Drum Corps participated in the first Tri-County Firemen's Association Parade in Chester.
1906
The Tattersall property was the site for the Good Will Fire Company's Fair with clowns, baked goods, dinner booths, etc. The Company showed a net profit of $2,754.60.
Edwin Leedom, Vice President, announced to Company members that he had paid off the mortgage held by the Borough of West Chester for $3,000.00 and “satisfaction had been entered at the Court House” and the Company was now out of debt. The trustees were authorized to buy 6 spittoons and have the broken tables fixed.
1905
For the first time in the history of the West Chester Fire Department a volunteer fireman, Harry H. Wolf, was lost in the line of duty. Condolences were expressed to family and friends.
Apr 10 - the Bell Telephone Company asked permission to place a phone in the Engine House. Request was granted.
1904
An invitation to attend Kennett Square's Fair was accepted and it has been decided to go by trolley on Thursday night, October 27th, at the cost of $30.00. The President reported he had collected $27.00 from 54 members with the $3.00 balance to be paid by the Company for the Drum Corp.
1903
May 20 - James Riley was fined $1.00 for being drunk in the Engine House.
1902
Mar 27 - At the March 27h meeting of the Good Will Fire Company, also known as the Goodies, it was decided to attend the West Chester No. 1 Fair on April 18th in full uniform. They have decided to buy six new horns valued at $35.00 each. An invitation was accepted from Merion Fire Co. of Ardmore to attend the housing of their new apparatus November 15th.
1901
May 18 - Good Will Fire Company put into operation their new custom of having members sleep in the house at night to be ready for all night alarms. The new bunks have been furnished and John Hazzard and Peter Supplee will be first to initiate them.
Dec 10 - A “handsome draft” of the fire alarm system for the town was accepted at the regular monthly meeting. The draft was created by Clyde King, son of the President of the Company. It was placed in the engine room.
1900
Eighteen members of the Good Will Fire Company met to form a Fife and Drum Corps under the direction of Charles Riley. It hopes to be ready within a few weeks.
Aug 20 - Several members of Good Will Fire Company gave a private dance at Lenape with 22 couples present. Music was furnished by Messrs. Ricketts, Washington and Thomas. A good time was had by all.
1899
Oct 13 - Fireman's Day was held in West Chester on Friday, October 13th, with a parade commencing at 1:30pm with Plummer E. Jefferis as Chief of the Fire Department.
1898
Week of Feb 22 - The third fair was held in the Tattersall property. The proceeds were $1,306.68.
Dec 2 - A supper was held at the Eagle Hotel where 32 members of the Company were present and “enjoyed themselves immensely.”
1897
The Company purchased the site on East Gay Street from the estate of George Matlack for $4,500.00. Baker and Dollett drew the plans and P.E. Jefferis was awarded the contract for $5,285.00. The total cost of the building was $10,334.00. The building was started April 1st and completed in October of the same year.
1896
Week of Feb 22 - The Company’s second Fair was held in the Armory and the proceeds were $1,516.43.
1893
Feb 13 - It was approved that the Electric Company be notified to wire and light the Fire House, to be burned in the meeting room twice a month.
1892
Nov - The Company’s first Fair was held on Thanksgiving week and the proceeds were $1,652.77.
1890
Jan - The uniform was changed to maroon hats and long fawn overcoats. In the same year the company joined the State Fireman's Association.
1886
Jun 7 - The new hose carriage purchased by the Borough of West Chester was properly housed and the old one ordered sold to Thomas H. Peto for $35.00.
1885
Mar - The committee reported on the Valentine property, when the following resolution was adopted by the Company:
Whereas, "The Good Will Fire Company" have lately purchased of the widow and heirs of Chalkley M. Valentine, deceased, a certain three-story brick messuage and lot of ground, situated on the south side of Gay Street, between High and Walnut Streets, in the Borough of West Chester, Pa., for the use of said Company and are indebted to said widow and heirs in the sum of Four Thousand Dollars for the purchase money thereof; therefore,
Resolved, That in order to pay said purchase money "The Good Will Fire Company" do borrow of "The Burgesses and Inhabitants of the Borough of West Chester," now known by its corporate title as "The Borough of West Chester," the sum of Four Thousand Dollars, to be due and payable on or before the first day of April, A.D., one thousand and eight hundred and eighty-six and to be without interest until the same is paid, and that Levi G. McCauley, President, and Edmund D. Hoopes, Secretary of the said "The Good Will Fire Company" are hereby authorized and directed to execute on behalf of said Company a mortgage for four thousand dollars on the said house and lot to the said "The Burgesses and Inhabitants of the Borough of West Chester" now know by its corporate title as "The Borough of West Chester" using a common school seal which shall be considered the seal of the corporation or company for said purpose.
James B. Everhart presented the Company with a bell which was placed in the bell tower.
Aug 22 - The apparatus was housed after the new house was remodeled and completed. There was a parade consisting of the three fire companies, the Pioneers and the Borough Council.
Oct 12 - The old engine house on Church Street was sold to Dr. Jesse C. Green for $1,075.
1884
Apr - A committee, consisting of C.H. Hannum, A.A. Parker, T.W. Marshall, Wm. Woodward and Wm. Hoopes, was appointed to look into purchasing a new location for the Company.
1883
Feb 14 - The three local fire companies appointed committees to cooperate in drawing up plans for their own Fire Marshal. The proposal was accepted and resulted in more efficient operation of the town’s fire fighting facilities. Theodore P. Apple was elected as the first Fire Marshal of the West Chester Fire Department.
Jul 4 - The first uniform adopted by the Company was for the 4th of July parade and consisted of blue shirts, white "2" on the breast, white canvas caps, white belts and white ties. Forty-two uniforms were procured.
1882
Dec 18 - A committee of William S. Kirk, Levi McCauley, George Johnson, Benjamin Sweeney, R. Newton Thomas and T. Walter Embree were appointed to prepare for a banquet in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the Company to be held at the Mansion House of January 9th, 1883, at which time the Borough Council West Chester an Fame Fire Companies were their guests. During the evening remarks were made by Hon. Washington Townsend, Dr. J.B. Wood, Hon. William B. Waddeli, Theodore R. Apple, Hon. R.E. Monaghan and others.
1878
Mar 11 - The old hand engine was sold to T.P. Apple for $50.00.
1876
Jan 10 – A committee consisting of William Hoopes, William Darlington, Michael Clark, Henry P. Sharpless, and the President, William S. Kirk, were instructed to visit Borough Council and ascertain their views upon the purchase of a Steam Fire Engine.
Nov 9 – The Button Steam Fire Engine the Borough Council purchased arrived. It had been satisfactorily tested and on motion it was unanimously resolved that the Engine be accepted by the Company and that the Trustees be authorized to sell the old hand engine.
1875
At a meeting irregularly called on March 11, a Committee consisting of William S. Kirk, J. Bayard Jefferis and John McGrath were appointed to sell the real estate and personal property of the Company at either public or private sale. In July, it was resolved to have a public sale on Saturday, August 7 and that the sale be advertised in the Sunday Mercury and the Public Ledger of Philadelphia. The money derived from the sale was to be divided among the ten remaining members. However, the sale did not take place. The hose and carriage was loaned to the Fame Fire Co.
1859
A new carriage was built for the Company for $250.00.
“For twenty-seven years, William Darlington, Esquire, was the leading spirit and during the whole time held the office of Treasurer. He was characterized by his straight forwardness.”
1856
The Company purchased the Harmony engine of Philadelphia for $1,000, selling their old one to Harmony Engine Company for $270.00 and changing the name on the engine to "Good Will". The Company meetings were changed to the Robert Irvine residence.
Jul 7 - A boy named William Bates, between 11 and 12 years of age, was killed when a Good Will Engine was sent from West Chester to Philadelphia for repairs. It was taken from the depot to Mr. Agnew’s shop on Vine Street, “with the tongue made fast to a furniture car.” At 15th and Arch Streets, while the horses attached to the car were moving along at a walk, young Bates stumbled and fell. The hind wheel of the engine passed over his head, killing him instantly. An inquest was held in the case by the Coroner, at the dwelling of the parents of the deceased on Jones Street in the Ninth Ward. The driver of the car was exonerated from censure.
1851
The Borough Council passed an ordinance appropriating one hundred dollars annually to be used for fire equipment. Fires appear to have been of much more frequent occurrence in the early history of the Company.
At a fire the members were arranged in two rows, one passing the filled buckets from the well to the engine, the other passing the empty buckets back. The water was poured into the engine, where it was thrown on the fire through the hose by means of one long lever worked at each end by several men.
Although the apparatus was not first class, the Company was generally prepared for service as can be witnessed from the following extracts of Engineer reports:
"The Good Will was promptly ready for action and continued through the whole time in the most active manner, performing very valuable duties."
"She performed with comfort to herself and satisfaction to her friends."
"The Good Will was promptly in an excellent situation for duty, went early into action and saved much of the surrounding property, and, with the assistance of other companies, succeeded in quelling the flames without much injury being done to any building other than that originally fired."
"Performed with her accustomed meekness and good will."
"Hose Carriage on the ground early and secured the best situation and was instrumental in saving much property…and had water on before either of the other companies arrived."
"The Good Will, as usual, was the last to leave the grounds."
1850
The Company constitution was amended so that members who had served five successive years were entitled to the privilege of an honorary membership. From this time the older members, at their request, were placed on the retired list, leaving the management to younger men. On the breaking out of the Rebellion, many of the members volunteered to serve their Country and left the Company which left the Company in a weakened condition. Interest flagged and meetings were slimly attended to a point where only ten names were left on the roll.
1849
A four-wheeled hose carriage was bought from Ringgold Hose Company of Philadelphia for fifty dollars ($50.00). The apparatus to date were all second-hand and in need of constant repair. The Engines were housed in a stable on the south side of Market Street, nearly opposite the Court House. The Company purchased a lot on Church Street where they built a two-story house, which was enlarged in1858.
1846
The Good Will Fire Company was incorporated.
1841
At a special meeting in February the Constitution of the Good Will Fire Company was adopted. The first hose carriage was purchased. The water works commenced with H. Taylor laying the pipes, and on July 4th water supply commenced. James Powell was first to drink from it. A six inch main was laid from Chester Creek to the Reservoir.
1837
An Engine was purchased from Good Will Fire Company of Philadelphia for $650.00. The name of the Association was changed from "Neptune" to Good Will Fire Company." At this time the old apparatus that had been presented to the company by the West Chester Fire Company was in turn presented to the Independence Fire Company (now the Fame Fire Company No.3).
An effort was made to have a more efficient organization of the Fire Department of the borough. A town meeting was held and it was recommended that the Burgesses build cisterns and aid the Companies. For many years the Company labored under great difficulty for lack of funds and collections were constantly being sought. The fire insurance companies occasionally contributed. The Borough Council granted pecuniary aid several times.
1836
Nov 26 - Between ten and eleven o'clock at night a fire broke out in the frame dwelling house adjoining the George Hutchinson house which was occupied by Charles Clayton. Upon taking the Engine out of the house the front axle broke and the Engine was left in the street, unfit for service.
1834
Feb 20 - A house call was answered by the Neptune Company at the residence of D.W. Worthington.
1833
Jun 10 – The Neptune’s second fire response; at Daniel Buckwalter's house for a hay wagon in front of his home.
Apr 30 – The Neptune’s first fire response. The fire occurred at the E. Smedly residence.
Jan 26 - The Company was permanently organized with the following elections: William Williamson, President; David Meconkey, Secretary; William Darlington, Treasure; Angus McKay, Chief Engineer and five Assistant Engineers.
The treasure was required to be bonded in the sum of five hundred dollars. The President was instructed on behalf of the Company to address a respectful letter to each of the insurance companies which had insured property in the borough of West Chester asking their friendly assistance in the aid of the general objects of the Association.
The Engineers were instructed to procure a speaking trumpet and badges for their own use.
The Neptune answered two calls in the first year of service, the first being at E. Smedly residence on April 30; the second on June 10th at Daniel Buckwalter's house for a hay wagon in front of his home.
Jan 9 - Joel Matlack hosted a meeting with a number of West Chester citizens who favored the formation of a new fire company. William Williamson became Chairman and William P. Sharpless was appointed Secretary.
On motion of William Darlington, Esquire, the following paper was read:
"Whereas the Old Engine Company having provided themselves with a new Engine and Apparatus and thereby having both the old and new engines on their hands, have in their meeting recommended to the attention of a sufficient number of young men in the borough, the formation of themselves into a Company for that duty and to take the old one off their hands; which is now in good repairs. Therefore, we the subscribers feeling the necessity are willing to form ourselves into a Company to take and keep the Engine and Apparatus in good repair, provided it and the house can be procured on proper terms".
The document was signed by thirty-six men, seventeen of whom attended the January 9 meeting:
William Williamson
Samuel Way
Yarnall Baily
Angus McKay
Jacob Kuhnile
H.G. Worrell
Titus Bennett
William Sharpless
John Burns
Otter D. Jester
William Darlington
Joel Matlack
Milton Earley
James Powell
John Putter
S.M. Painter
Enos Smedley
The seventeen men resolved to organize a fire company, and for that purpose appointed a committee to draft a constitution. One week later the men met again where the committee presented the constitution. The assembly adopted the constitution as presented. Nine members constituted a quorum.
The first article of the Company’s constitution read as follows:
"This association shall be denominated, "The Neptune Fire Company".
A committee from the First West Chester Fire Company attended the meeting and made an "absolute unconditional transfer of the old engine to the Neptune Fire Company." The new Company accepted the offer and extended their thanks to First West Chester.
According to the Constitution, each member was required to provide himself, at his own expense, with two leather buckets marked with his name and that of the fire Company. They were to be placed in the most convenient part of his dwelling and appropriated entirely to the use of the fire Company or pay a fine of twenty-five cents at each stated meeting during his neglect.
The members were subject to fines varying in amounts from six and a quarter cents to fifty cents for the following offenses: Absence from roll calls, absence from meetings, leaving a meeting without the permission of the President, leaving engines without consent of Chief Engineers, non-compliance with the reasonable injunctions of an engineer and for leaving his bucket at a fire twenty-four hours after the fire had been extinguished. All officers were fined fifty cents for neglecting or refusing to perform any duty to which they were assigned. For absence, double the amount of the fine was imposed on officers as opposed to other members.
On the morning of each meeting the clerk was required to deliver to each member a written or printed notice indicating the meeting time and place, and to inspect the buckets of the members and report their condition to the Company. For omitting to service a notice or inspect the bucket of any member, a fine of six and a quarter cents was imposed.
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