Boston Fire Cadets Learn About Great Boston Fire

Boston Fire Department Commissioner Paul Burke with Leah Rosovsky and Christina Michelon
Boston Fire Department Commissioner Paul Burke (left) is presented a reprint of “The Boston Fire” oil painting by artist F. Shaw as a gift from Boston Atheneum director, Leah Rosovsky (center); and associate curator, Christina Michelon, Ph.D. (right).

Boston (MA) Fire Department (BFD) Commissioner Paul Burke spoke to the incoming class of BFD cadets at the Boston Athenaeum before touring the Athenaeum’s ongoing exhibit, “Revisiting the Ruins: The Great Boston Fire of 1872.”

Joined by Boston Atheneum Director Leah Rosovsky and Associate Curator Christina Michelon, PhD, BFD representatives toured the prints, photographs, and written accounts that documented the aftermath and romanticization of the fire that ravaged Boston’s central commercial district.

Remarks by Commissioner Burke discussed the history of the Boston Fire Department and examples of how modern-day aspects of today’s agency play tribute to the heroes who battled the historic fire. For example, the current Boston City Fire Boat, the “John S. Darnell,” is named after the Boston Fire Department Commissioner who successfully extinguished the fire in 1872.

The Boston Athenaeum’s exhibit, “Revisiting the Ruins,” is open until July 29th and accessible to the public with a $10 visitor admission, or free with membership. More information is available on the Boston Athenaeum website.

MORE BOSTON FIRE HISTORY

CA Fire Department Pilot-Testing Drone Response to “Unknown Type” Fire Calls

The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District has launched a pilot program making drones the first responders for "unknown type fire" calls.
Mike Dugan and company talking building constructon and disasters

Humpday Hangout: Building Codes and Disasters

Mike Dugan and the panel regulars will talk with their guests about building codes and how proper building construction can mitigate the damage from natural…