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Norristown Hose Company
627 Dekalb Street
Norristown, PA 19401
610-275-0968
www.norrishose.com
History
The Norristown Hose Company received its’ charter on February 22, 1848. The first meetings were held at the homes of its members. Towards the end of 1848, the company purchased a lot at 417 Dekalb Street and built their first firehouse. In 1881, the corner lot at Dekalb and Chestnut Streets was purchased, and their second and current firehouse was built. The building was dedicated on September 15, 1883.
In the early years, the company would receive $400.00 annually from Town Council. It was used primarily to purchase hose, since the company was a hose company. In the summer of 1848, the company purchased its’ first hose cart that they called “The Crab”.
Over the years, they purchased a steam engine; an Amoskeag Pumper. It was first drawn by men, then horses. In December 1917, the Norris Hose purchased its’ first completely motorized vehicle. Throughout the 20th century other motorized vehicles were purchased including a Simples, an Ahrans Fox and a Hale Pumper. At the present time, the Norris Hose fire fighting apparatus consist of a 1992 KME Pumper, purchase by the Norris, and a 2001 American La France Quint, purchased by the Municipality.
The Norristown Hose Company was the first fire company in Norristown, and to this date, continues to serve the Norristown Community with career and volunteer fire fighters, and a Ladies Auxiliary.
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