Fire Company, No. 5.

February 15, 1837 – New set of Portland Fire Department Rules and Regulations adopted.  

Several “Fire Companies” were established within their respective Wards (7) to assist at fires, as outlined in the new rules and regulations.

Ward Room 5 was located in the 1836 two-story brick Engine House on the westerly side of South Street, at the corner of Spring Street, which was also the quarters of “Casco” Engine 1.

Fire Company No. 5 had no apparatus and would report with their bags to the Chief Engineer or one of the Assistant Engineers at fires.

Members were charged with chaining off streets to keep clear for the engines to be maneuvered and would enter burning buildings to save any property.  They were provided canvas bags to place any small valuables in and bed key wrenches to take apart the bed steads.

May 31 – Newspaper article noted their efforts, commending their assistance and service at a fire.

1844 – Fire Companies 2, 4, 5, and 7 were disbanded.