The volunteers and supporters of the Los Angeles Fire Department Historical Society wish everyone a healthy and happy New Year. The organization is very enthused about the coming year and we hope that you and your friends, family members, and co-workers find the opportunity to visit one of our museums.
As everyone knows, the current ecomony is a issue that affects everyone. As a museum, the importance of ongoing support from the public is critical to the organization's survival. We are actively working on a number of initiatives, and your support is important to our success.
The Fallen Firefighter Memorial
While primary construction of the memorial has been completed, there remain outstanding expenses that must be retired. In addition, the plaza requires ongoing maintenance and support. When you purchase a memorial paver, you're supporting the memorial and the plaza. Please help us keep the memory of every fallen LAFD firefighter alive. We were saddened to add names to the wall this year, but also feel pride that there is a place for people to visit and reflect, so that every name has meaning for every citizen of Los Angeles and our many visitors from outside the city.
Old Fireboat #2, the Ralph J. Scott
This is the oldest serving piece of apparatus in the history of the city, and perhaps the country. Fireboat #2 served Los Angeles in the Port of L.A. for 77 years. It is now on land, stationed behind FS112 and the current Boat 2 berth in San Pedro (across from the Harbor LAFD HS Museum). The "Scott" as she is affectionately called, is due to be housed in a fantastic structure being built and paid for by the Port of Los Angeles.
The fireboat itself requires rehabilitation that volunteers cannot accomplish on their own. As much as we love the boat, our efforts will merely slow the progress of decay and the effects of time. Therefore, we continue to seek support for the boat, so that we may have professional experts work with us to prepare the boat for her final assignment.
Restoration of Old Fire Station 27
The Hollywood museum is in need of maintenance and rennovation as well. Any old building requires love and attention, so that it remains a viable structure. We have managed to make certain that the museum is taken care of, but there are impending projects that require substantial investment to complete, including upgrading the electrical, plumbing, and security of the building.
When you become a member of the LAFD Historical Society, you are assisting us in our mission to preserve the history of the department, in part via the Hollywood museum - Old Fire Station 27. Please consider becoming a member if you are not - and if you are, please consider volunteering or otherwise finding a way to support our efforts.
Volunteers
We are always seeking new volunteers. This year, more than ever, we are eager to bring in new people, who have a love of the fire service and/or history in general. There are many interesting tasks for our volunteers, ranging from apparatus restoration to conducting tours or working in our gift shop.
Regardless of the support provided, we greatly appreciate every bit of assistance that is provided to our organization. We exist because of the support you provide. As we head into 2009, we would like to remind you that we have some of the most interesting artifacts to be found anywhere in the United States. We have knowledgeable retired firefighters who can share the history of the department with you. And we have one of the most remarkable memorials to be found anywhere - dedicated to those firefighters who gave their lives in service to the city.
Please make the LAFD Historical Society part of your 2009 vacation, tour, or support plans. This website provides information on membership, pavers, volunteering, and other opportunities. We look forward to seeing you soon.
