East Central in Fort Wayne in Allen County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

First Central Fire House

Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, December 29, 2023

1. First Central Fire House Marker

Inscription.
The first volunteer fire company was founded in Fort Wayne in 1839. On this site in 1860 was located the first Central Fire House. This two story brick structure with a bell tower housed two steam fire engines and two hose wagons. The units stationed here were The Mechanics and Vigilant Engine and Hose Companies.

In 1863 another building was added behind for the ladder truck of the Alert Hook and Ladder Company.

Other volunteer fire units in addition to those already mentioned were: The Torrent, Eagle, Protection, Rescue, and Hope Companies.

In 1882 the first paid city fire department came into being.

Erected by Allen County - Fort Wayne Historical Society.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Charity & Public Work. A significant historical year for this entry is 1839.

Location. 41° 4.882′ N, 85° 8.058′ W. Marker is in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in Allen County. It is in East Central. Marker is at the intersection of East Main Street and Lafayette Street (U.S. 27), on the right when traveling west on East Main Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 419 East Main Street, Fort Wayne IN 46802, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The History of the Bell (within shouting distance of this marker); The Last Two American Forts / The Siege of 1812

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(within shouting distance of this marker); Old Fort Wayne Well (within shouting distance of this marker); The Site of General Wayne's Fort (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Takaoka and Fort Wayne Time Capsule (about 600 feet away); Mother George (about 600 feet away); This Barr And Columbia Street Intersection (about 800 feet away); Barr And Columbia (about 800 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Fort Wayne.

Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, December 29, 2023

2. First Central Fire House Marker

The marker is on the reverse side of the free book library at the fire station.

Location of the marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, December 29, 2023

3. Location of the marker

Credits. This page was last revised on February 3, 2024. It was originally submitted on January 14, 2024, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. This page has been viewed 48 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on January 14, 2024, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.