Local History on Display: Friendship Fire Co.

Recently, editor Alyson D'Alessandro attended the Rotary Club's pancake breakfast at Friendship Hook and Ladder Co.'s social hall. In the hallway, near the packed trophy case, there are a series of old photos and other framed items on the wall. 

This ad from the Pottstown Mercury caught my attention, especially when I noticed the date. 

Friendship Fire Co. held a "mortgage burning" - which means the mortgage on their building was fully paid off—on Dec. 4, 1943. 

This full-page ad announces the mortgage burning, and contains a series of smaller advertisements congratulating the fire company. 

It's amazing what small pieces of history can be found all over our towns!