Haverhill welcomed a new fire engine Tuesday with a “Push-In” ceremony rooted in the days of horse-drawn fire apparatus.
The shiny new Pierce pumper, capable of delivering 15 gallons of water per minute with a four-person crew, was rolled into its garage space at the High Street Fire Station under the admiring gaze of firefighters, neighbors and dignitaries.
Haverhill Fire Chief Christopher Cesati explained the origins of the ceremony.
“It’s a proud fire service tradition that dates back to the days of the horse-drawn fire apparatus. Before engines could be driven into the station under their own power, firefighters would unhitch the horses and physically push the apparatus back into the station. Over time, that became more of a symbol about teamwork, dedication and readiness to serve.” Cesati explained.
Cesati thanked the city for its support.
“Today we honor that tradition by ceremonially pushing in Engine 1 into service. This signifies that it’s officially placed into service and is ready to answer calls in the community.”
Capt. Pete Baldwin, Lt. Kevin Winship and firefighters Matthew Monigle and Mitchell LeBlanc took positions on the engine’s front bumper and gave it their all while firefighter Lance Pettis, at the steering wheel, guided the engine into its new home. Dignitaries and guests were invited to join firefighters for coffee and donuts.
Cesati said he decided to locate the new engine at the High Street Fire Station because it is the busiest firehouse in the city. Crews there answer more than 4,000 calls and clock over 15,000 miles a year. The new engine joins a rescue truck also stationed there.
Cesati noted the city purchased the new engine with $930,000 of federal America Rescue Plan Act funds. The current Engine 1 will be renamed Engine 4 and move to the Bradford Fire Station on South Main Street. The engine there moves to reserve status and a reserve engine will move to the Rocks Village Firehouse, the chief said.
Attending the ceremony were at-large City Councilor Thomas J. Sullivan, Ward 1 Councilor Ralph T. Basiliere and Ward 4 Councilor Melissa J. Lewandowski.