| On Saturday June 21, 2008 the Minquas Fire Company # 2 celebrated its 100 year anniversary along with housing of five apparatus. The ceremony was open to the public with attendance by local citizens, dignitaries at the local and state levels, along with the Alert Fire Company #1 and surrounding fire companies. It was a beautiful day marked with a tremendous amount of support and appreciation for the men and woman of the Minquas Fire Company. Along with a number of keynote speeches and dedications, the Minquas Fire Company housed 5 pieces of apparatus. As explained during the ceremony by Department Chief Michael Miller, the housing ceremony is a tradition dating back to the early 1800's. Back then, when a fire company received a new apparatus, it was a big deal to the community and it was common for the neighboring fire companies to push the horse drawn apparatus back into the fire company. They backed the apparatus into the fire station three times: first for God, second for Community, and finally for the members and good luck. Minquas proudly witnessed the new engine, air/light, two ambulances and a Paramedic unit housed by the Alert Fire Company, Thorndale Fire Company, Lionville Fire Company, West Bradford Fire Company, Uwchlan Ambulance Corps, Good Will Fire Company, Chester County Medics 91 and 93. After the ceremony, the public enjoyed food and refreshments as well as examined fire apparatus past and present. The Minquas Fire Company would like to thank the community of Downingtown, Mayor and Borough Council of Downingtown, East Caln Township Supervisors, dignitaries and neighboring fire companies for your support. |