The History
Uxbridge Fire Brigade
The call for fire protection in Uxbridge began in 1873 after a series of major fires in the town.
After years of citizens using informal bucket brigades in case of fire, the call to formalize the fire brigade was answered in 1874. A lot was acquired on the north side of Brock Street, just west of mill creek for pump and water access; a bell was put on the building to act as an alarm; and handcarts were purchased to carry the hoses.
The Big Fire - 1883
“‘The Big Fire’ started in Market Hall ... and with a west wind, the fire moved rapidly through the wooden buildings. The fire soon reached the Fire Hall, and as the tower burned, the bell came loose, and fell through the building, and broke the fire pump. The fire spread rapidly as the firefighters had to revert to the old hand pumper to fight the fire. Before it was finished near Main Street, the fire had consumed many shops, homes and a hotel.”
Except from Uxbridge: The First 100 Years by J. Peter Hvidsten
Honouring a Legacy of Service
The 150th Anniversary of the formation of the Uxbridge Fire Brigade, gives us an opportunity to share the rich history of the department publicly and bring awareness to those who have been, and are dedicated to serving and protecting residents and visitors of the Township. The physical and emotional toll on the firefighter can at times be great; and the Firefighter Memorial Statue and Garden will provide a community focal point where one can reflect upon the commitment and sacrifice that firefighters make on a daily basis.
150 Years
Many things have evolved and changed over the 150 year tenure of the Uxbridge Fire Department, but what hasn’t changed is the commitment of the firefighters to serve and protect our citizens. What an incredible legacy of service!
With the upcoming milestone of 150 years, the Uxbridge Firefighters Association (UFA) is seizing upon an opportunity to honour the history and legacy of this service with the Uxbridge Firefighters Memorial Statue.
Memorial
For several years the UFA has wanted to create a memorial honouring their fallen. The fire hall’s new location has the appropriate space to make this happen.
Garden
There is also an opportunity to create an attractive garden area at a key gateway from the west when entering our town.
Community
The memorial will be a perfect way to integrate the firehall into the community by providing an area of reflection and rest near the trail system, the museum and the dog park.
THE TRAIL SYSTEM
The Firefighter Memorial will be conveniently located adjacent to the Uxbridge trail system. The Quaker trail wends its way around Quaker Village and can be accessed east of the fire hall driveway entrance. Trail users will be able to enjoy the benches and tranquility provided by the memorial garden.