The End of an Era

Engine 1’s pump was retired from service after the hose testing detail this evening due to the need for extensive maintenance and repairs. This rig had been on loan from Georgetown after the failure of Engine 1’s 1985 Ford, and the failure of local government to replace it.

The saga has been well documented on this website.

This marks the first time in 80 YEARS that the RFD has been without an Engine 1, and it leaves us one engine short of what is required to fulfill our mission. The Board of Selectmen has promised to consider a replacement proposal in the spring of 2008, after refusing to consider one this year.

Given the status of local budgets in the Commonwealth in general, and the specific issues in Rowley, this webmaster is left wondering if tonight’s retirement may mark the permanent disbanding of Engine 1. I hope not.

Either way, goodbye old friend.