Vandergrift No. 1 Volunteer Fire Department turns 125 years old this year and organizers plan to host a daylong community celebration.
Alexandra Berger, company member and fundraising committee chairperson, said she was motivated to organize a birthday bash for the firefighters of the borough when she did the math and figured out it was 125 years of service to the borough.
“After everything that happened with covid and seeing everything first responders did, I wanted to give them a day just for them, I want the community to come out and tell them how much they’re loved,” Berger said.
Co-organizer and volunteer firefighter Ashleigh Hannigan said she’s looking forward to borough residents uniting for a day of celebratory fun on Sept. 3.
“This is the first big celebration that I get to be a part of and help organize. We have some exciting stuff planned,” Hannigan said.
A parade will kick off the festivities at noon. The parade will follow the borough’s full parade route, which starts at Longfellow Street and continues along Hancock Avenue, Franklin Avenue and then Grant Avenue.
Organizers want to spread the word that all area fire departments are invited to participate in the parade.
“It will be a celebration of all things firefighter,” Berger said.
Planned activities include a battle of the barrel contest, fireman Olympics, children’s coloring contest, food trucks, live music and more.
Company president Mike Reilly pointed out the long history of Vandergrift No. 1 Volunteer Fire Department. Some was recorded in a 100th anniversary commemorative book, noting early meetings were held in the W. G. Young drug store until mid-1898, and then, in the reading room of the Casino Theatre.
The department’s first chief was George Breig, elected in 1899.
Original fire fighting equipment included one hose reel, 300 feet of hose and a hook-and-ladder wagon, purchased by the company in 1902.
“It’s a lot of history here. A lot of tradition,” said Reilly, a third-generation firefighter in Vandergrift.
Chief Randy Dunmire said the event will serve as a much anticipated event for borough residents.
“We’ll recognize the service and dedication of all the past firefighters and leaders who developed into what it is today as we set our sights on the next 125 years with continued growth and improvements in our fire and rescue service,” Dunmire said.
Fire departments wishing to participate in the parade are asked to email vandergriftvfd1@gmail.com.
