Raise the Alarm: Newport Fire Department through the Decades Exhibition Opening
December 17 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Free
Richard I. Burnham Resource Center
This retrospective exhibit showcases the history of the Newport Fire Department beginning with the purchase of a fire engine for Newport in 1734. In the 18th century, Newport’s firefighting and fire prevention efforts were supported by a multitude of volunteer fire clubs, which focused on stemming the spread of fires to adjoining buildings as well as salvaging the contents of burning structures.
In 1822, these efforts were streamlined with the creation of the Board of Firewards, a group of nine annually elected persons who managed the roster of firefighting groups across Newport. The Board of Firewards was absorbed into the Newport Fire Department when it was established in 1858. This exhibition will highlight how the methods of firefighting evolved over the last three centuries, including the display of the Newport Historical Society’s collection of NFD materials.
Registration for this event is highly encouraged.
Register Here: https://forms.gle/mcK6tuzxAABAUSaRA