“What does it mean to be brave? To do what you have to do when other people are counting on you.” Author unknown
Back in 1901, the Mantua Hose Company #1 volunteer Fire Department was formed by a group of roughly thirty residents who lived and worked in Mantua. They saw the need to work together to help protect residents, businesses, and property, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect their community.
In the 1880’s, prior to the formation of a Fire Department, a large fire bell was rung to call out the Civilian Bucket Brigade. When the bell rang, citizens stopped what they were doing, either day or night, to gather to battle blazes or aid individuals and businesses in their community. (This bell has been installed near the front entrance of the current MDSF station entrance at 10303 State Route 44 in Mantua.) But as the community grew, a simple bucket brigade seemed like just a drop in the bucket.
After four major fires in the downtown area in less than 10 years, the idea of forming a municipal fire department seemed inevitable. But it was the ‘Big Blaze of 1901’ that seemed to cinch the deal.
In that incident, the entire downtown was threatened by the blaze, and both the Cleveland and Youngstown Fire Departments were telegraphed for assistance. As luck would have it, the wind shifted, averting a total disaster downtown. Melting snow on nearby rooftops prevented other downtown buildings from succumbing to the inferno, but in the end, all six of the buildings along the south side of East Prospect Street were lost. When the smoke cleared, the community agreed that an organized, municipal Fire Department with an adequate water system were necessary.
A timeline highlighting the evolution of Fire protection in Mantua follows:
1860 – 1901: Citizen’s Bucket Brigade
1901 – 1908: Mantua Hose Company #1
1908 – 1946: Mantua Village Fire Department
1946 – 1965: Mantua Shalersville Fire Association
1965 – 1975: Mantua Township Volunteer Fire Department
1975 – Present: Mantua-Shalersville Fire District
The Mantua-Shalersville Fire District was the fifth Department to be established in Portage County. Today, MSFD serves Mantua Village, Mantua Township, and Shalersville Townships and is one of the oldest departments in Portage County.
What began as a handful of volunteers from Mantua has evolved to include 15 full-time and six part-time staff from Mantua and surrounding communities who continue the mission that began 125 years ago.
To celebrate 125 years of service, the community is invited to come out to the Station on Saturday, June 27th from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. That afternoon, you’ll have a chance to celebrate the department’s history, community, and the firefighters who have proudly served since 1901.
Kids of all ages will appreciate historic and modern fire trucks on display. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in live demonstrations, as well. Western Reserve Fire Buffs member Ted Elder will be showcasing an 1887 Amoskeag Steam Pumper, which pumps 700 gallons of water per minute. The University Hospitals MedEvac helicopter will be landing at noon* (*as their flight schedule allows).
The State Fire Marshall’s office will be on hand giving folks the opportunity to practice extinguishing kitchen fires in their special training module. Hot food and cold beverages will be on hand, thanks to local food trucks.
And MSFD staff will be available, giving you the opportunity to meet the local men and women ready to come to your rescue when you need them most. So come celebrate the past 125 years of dedication, bravery, and service while meeting the team that continues this valuable mission in the community forward for in future years.
The 125th Anniversary event takes place on Saturday, June 27th from 11 am until 3 pm at the MSFD Station — 10303 State Route 44 — in Mantua.
For more information visit the Mantua-Shalersville Fire District’s Facebook page or call the MSFD non-emergency number (330) 274-3535.
Photos and historical information provided by MSFD member Tim Benner.
