Fire Service in Olympia:
Time Line and Roster

Transcribed by Roger Easton

Time Line

1850-1911 In researching the beginnings of the Olympia Fire Departments for the Olympia Fire Department, Roger Easton constructed a time line . Early companies, men and equipment may be found from the earliest-known fire service  to the early 1900’s.  Should the reader have information to add, please send to Roger Easton.
 
1850's


1859
1860
1862
1864
1865
1866
1868
1869
1874
1881
1882
1883
1884

1885


1888


1889
1890
1891
1898
1899
1902
1903
1904
1905
1911

Roster of  The Columbia Engine Company


The City of Olympia, 1866-1899 By transcribing, in summary form, the minutes of the Columbia Engine Company, Olympia’s first official fire  department, 1866-1899, Roger Easton extracted names of the firemen, and some additional information. Contact  Roger if you wish additional information. In earlier days, it was considered an honor to belong to this company, and members had to pay dues, attend weekly practice musters, and be ready to help maintain equipment. Though the city gave it space in the lower quarters of Columbia Hall, and helped with expenses, the most popular form of fundraising was holding balls. Much of the minutes of the early company were taken up by planning for these events.  Proceeds helped with purchasing hoses, uniforms, and other equipment.  Helmets and badges were supplied, and members were always eager to march through town with their engines, which in earlier days were pulled by men, not horses.
 
  Surname | Given Name | Date of Election | Note | Date Out
 

Content updated October 26, 2003