An "invaluable piece of firefighting history" has been added to Bradford West Gwillimbury’s new fire station on Melbourne Street — a 123-year-old fire bell from the original Barrie Street fire hall.
The historic item, which used to call firefighters to duty, has been refurbished and installed in Fire Station No. 1's bell tower.
“This bell honours the long-standing commitment (Bradford West Gwillimbury’s) firefighters continue to bring to the community,” said Fire Chief Brent Thomas. “It serves as a reminder of firefighting history and dedication and represents a tradition near and dear to all firefighters."
Bells were installed at fire halls in the late 1800s to signal firefighters to begin their tour of duty and to signal the beginning of that day's shift.
These bells would also serve as an alert to summon these brave souls to fight fires and protect their community. When the fire was out, it was the bell that signalled to all the completion of the call.
"The bell is an important piece of history to any fire hall," said Bradford Mayor James Leduc. "The bell was an important piece of firefighting equipment way back. I'm extremely happy we were able to restore our bell and place it in front of Station No. 1.”
A bell was hung at Bradford's first fire hall, located at 50 Barrie St., in the late 1800s. In the early 1900s, the fire hall relocated to the town hall on Holland Street.
When more space was required for firefighters and equipment, a new fire hall was built at 75 Melbourne Dr.
The facility at 75 Melbourne was designed to service a community of 30,000 people. With Bradford West Gwillimbury recently surpassing this population, a new facility was designed and built at 77 Melbourne Dr. The new fire hall was designed with a 200-square-foot tower to accommodate the historic bell. Additionally, a heritage room was added with old photos, newspaper clippings and artifacts relating to Bradford West Gwillimbury’s fire service.
“It is a privilege to restore such a prominent and important part of our past, and I am pleased that this priceless piece of (Bradford West Gwillimbury’s) history will be prominently showcased in our brand-new fire hall," said Thomas.
“The fire service is steeped in pride and tradition, and in a small way the restoration of the fire bell honours and celebrates the members of our community who put their lives on the line to serve as firefighters," he added. "We will reserve ringing the bell for ceremonial occasions to mark this proud history.”
In 2022, the bell was shipped to the Verdin Company in Cincinnati, Ohio, where it was completely refurbished and equipped with a fully functioning electronic striker.
On Jan. 31, 2023, the bell was placed in the tower.
“With the history dating way back to the late 1800s, that is a true testament to this community and its deep-seated roots,” said the mayor. “I hope when older residents drive by and look at the bell it reminds them of movies from their youth, and for the younger generation I hope they ask about the bell and why it is hanging at the fire hall.
"It will make for great conversation around a dinner table, just like it when I was a child," Leduc added.
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