1947-1956

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Challenges

The agricultural character of the village had given the fire company plenty of experience in fighting grass and wildland fires. The Old Tamarack Swamp offered many challenges to the fire company throughout its history. In 1948 there were 31 calls, of which 20 were in the rural area. The Swamp and grassland fires accounted for 13.

With all the activity, the local citizens were responding to as many calls as the firemen and a demand was made for more police at the scenes. The emotions of the hour raised the issues of the firemen being paid for their services, an issue which pegged fireman against fireman. However, that was short lived with the activity of the calls and a new truck on the way.

1950-Village Population is 2,469

Model Ordinance

In October of 1955 a model ordinance was read to the membership of the company recognizing the Menomonee Falls Fire Company No. 1 as a department of the Village of Menomonee Falls. On March 1, 1956 the ordinance was passed and went into effect. The ordinance did little to change the Company, as the principal purpose was to enable the arrangement of proper recompense and insurance for members.



1956

We've enjoyed the support of many community groups over the years and here's one example. 1956-02-16 Metro News Article-3


February 1956 the MFFD received a donation from the MF Lions Club! 
This vehicle was an International Harvester Metro Van and was retired sometime in the 1970's. 

There's more information about this unique multipurpose vehicle at: Metro Van

Constitution and By-Laws

The Constitution and By-Laws of Menomonee Falls Volunteer Fire Department were revised in 1956. These defined the structure of the organization, membership and attendance requirements, election of officers, and compensation.

Click to Read!

1956 Constitution and ByLaws01
1956-Fire Company No 1


Effective March 19, 1956 members of the Menomonee Falls Fire Department were placed on a pay schedule for attendance at fires, believed to be the first time members received pay for their services. Each member would receive $2 for the first hour and $1 for each additional hour at a fire call. Members who only made it to the station, would not be eligible for pay. Each member was paid $2 for attendance at assigned drills and absences at meetings or drills brought a $1 fine.

 

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