[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 59 (Tuesday, April 15, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E620-E621]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CELEBRATING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE EDGE HILL FIRE COMPANY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ALLYSON Y. SCHWARTZ

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 15, 2008

  Ms. SCHWARTZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate 
the Edge Hill Fire Company on the celebration of their 100th 
anniversary. Beginning in 1908 with just a few volunteers and hand 
drawn equipment, the Edge Hill Fire Company has developed into a 
modern, professional fire company.
  In Philadelphia 272 years ago, Benjamin Franklin started the first 
fire department in

[[Page E621]]

America. Franklin's brigade, comprised entirely of volunteers, was 
dedicated to looking out for their neighbors. Today, volunteers 
constitute 73 percent of all firefighters nationwide, and Franklin's 
proud tradition of volunteerism is being continued by the brave 
firefighters of Edge Hill Fire Company.
  In 1909, following a serious fire in the village of Edge Hill, a few 
residents spearheaded the effort to protect properties and lives in 
their community against future destruction. By 1911, Edge Hill Fire 
Company was able to purchase a fire truck, the first motorized 
apparatus in Abington Township. In 1933, the company moved into a new 
firehouse, built and funded largely by the company's volunteers. This 
firehouse, located on Limekiln Pike at Cricket Avenue is still in use 
today, but has been renovated to serve as a meeting hall. As the 
community grew, so did the fire company, building a large addition in 
1956 to include three truck bays, a service bay, hose tower, radio and 
recreation room.
  Today, the company continues their proud tradition of providing the 
best service to the community. They, as the firefighters described by 
Benjamin Franklin, still ``apply themselves with all vigilance and 
resolution,'' as well as dedication and courage, to the protection of 
their community in times of fire crises and as promoters of fire safety 
and prevention.
  Madam Speaker, once again I congratulate the members of the Edge Hill 
Fire Company for their service, commitment, and sacrifice. I ask that 
my colleagues join me in celebrating this milestone and wish the 
dedicated firefighters another 100 years of success and safety.

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