In Memoriam: Bob Cunningham, 1952

Fire was discovered in Bailey Antique Shop on South Main Street.  It was at this fire that faith would deal another blow to the Department.  Deputy Robert Cunningham received an electrical shock that was to see him become seriously ill and be the cause of his death.

Bob fought the fire without gear other than his metal helmet.  He came in contact with electrical wires and was knocked to the floor.  He got up and again was hit by the wires, this time knocking him unconscious.  For more than a year, he fought to survive but lost the fight on March 10, 1952.

Bob had entered the Department in 1931.

May 14, 1954 fire caused $80,000 in damages when an outbuilding at Franklin Hospital was destroyed.  It was a two story wooden building that housed the hospital heating plant and quarters for three nurses.

Several of the 44 patients in the hospital had to be moved from their rooms on the side near the fire because of the potential danger.

A new GMC front mounted pumper was purchased in 1955.  it would be designated Engine 2 and would be outfitted with two 400 foot booster reels with a 500 gallon tank and three lengths of 4 ½ inch suction hose.  Two 24 foot extension ladders would be mounted on the side.  Total cost of the new apparatus was $7996.

Chief Leslie Boomhower retired on January 7, 1957.  He had joined the Department as a member of Hose Co. 1 on May 16, 1908.  So ended 49 years of service to the community, which tired Harry Colby who also served 49 years.

Leland Wescott was appointed the new Chief.  He had entered Engine Company No. 1 on March 14, 1927 and served until 1940 which he left for a period of 4 years and returned as a driver in 1944, again appointed chief.

On May 23, 1958 the Knights of Columbus started out to have a steamed clam supper at their hall on Central Street.  While the cooking was in  progress, fire broke out in the kitchen and rapidly spread causing heavy damage before being brought under control.

Chief Wescott estimated damage at $20,000.

Flames spread from the roof of the K of C building to the eaves of the Franklin Cleaners Building.

The fire was reported shortly after 4 pm and when firemen arrived, flames had already broken through the roof and heavy smoke was pouring from most of the windows.  In less than an hour, firefighters, working from the front and rear of the building, had the fire under control.