Members from 4 original fire departments in Albion continue monthly gatherings

This group of long-time firefighters gathers last week at St. Mary’s Athletic Club on Moore Street for a monthly meeting.

Photos and information courtesy of Chuck Norman

ALBION – Did you know the original four departments of the Albion Fire Department still meet the first Wednesday every month?

Several years ago, Active Hose graciously asked the separate departments to join together for meeting and fellowship. Those departments included Dye Hose, Hart Hose and Hook & Ladder.

The meeting is held at the St. Mary’s Club in Albion and a meal is served to those in attendance.  The October meeting meal was a stuffed porkchop with mashed potatoes and green beans, and dessert of ice-cream and a mini-donut.  The meal was prepared by local renown chef Theresa Schmackpfeffer.

This month’s meeting was brought to order by Darryl Szklany (Active Hose 1969) and the pledge to the flag was recited. The minutes from the prior meeting were read and accepted.  Old business, new business, birthdays and next month’s food committee was elected; motion for adjournment was made and seconded.

Fuzzy Norman of Dye, right, and Ace Caldwell of Dye, left, show their appreciation to Theresa Schmackpfeffer for last week’s meal. All three are 91 years old.

Fuzzy has been a member of the Dye Hose since 1950, while Ace has been a member since 1952.

Other members in attendance at the recent meeting include:

Dennis Stirk – member of Active hose since 1969

Dennis Smith – Active Hose since 1968

Ed Norton – guest – Barre Center 1971

Mike Stirk – Active Hose 1965

Darryl Szklany – Active Hose 1969

Bill Basinait – Active Hose 1974

Micky Pilon – Die Hose 1960

Bert Mathes – Active Hose 2010

Francis Dibley – Active Hose 1971

Missing from the photo, Chuck Norman – Dye Hose 1973; and Willie Culverwell – Active Hose.

Darryl Skzlany, back left, and Bill Basinait listen to the conversation at the meeting.