P a g e 5 G h o s t T o w n s a n d H i s t o r y o f M o n t a n a N e w s l e t t e r HISTORY OF PARK COUNTY-continued From The Livingston Enterprise, January 1, 1900: Of the many societies that enter into the development of a city, none are more deserving of prominent mention than is that of the Fire Department. These men, who voluntarily risk their lives for the security of the city, and receive only a paltry sum as a recompense, should live forever in the annals of its people as their greatest benefactors. The Volunteer Fire company of Livingston was organized October 13, 1897, consisting of eighteen members, who were only active in the event of fire. The first officers elected were: President, Lee Eisenberg ; Vice President, Harry McCue ; Secretary, T. M. Swindlehurst ; Treasurer, C. S. Hefferlin; Trustees, C. S. Hefferlin, Frank Bender and D. N Ely. Dr. W. H. Campbell was the company’s physician. Shortly after the organization of the company a set of constitutions and by-laws were framed by a committee composed of five members, i. e., D. N. Ely, Frank Bender, G. W. Chamberlin, Harry McCue and J. H. Wolcott. The first annual fire ball was held at the opera house January 25, 1898, terminating as one of the grandest social and financial successes of any society ever held in Livingston. By the resignation of President Eisenberg, Harry McCue, vice president, was unanimously elected to fill the vacancy December, 1898, while M. J. Walsh was duly elected to fill the chair so honorably vacated by H. McCue. Today the Livingston Fire company consists of twenty-eight active members, one hose company of twentytwo men and one hook and ladder company of six men. The amount of fire apparatus on hand is as follows: One team, one hose wagon, one set double harness, two hose carts, one complete hook and ladder truck and 2,200 feet of two and one-half inch cotton hose. From May 3, 1897, until September 1, 1899, the volunteer company was in active service at thirty-six fires, twenty-one of which occurred during the last year. Ever since the existence of the fire department of Livingston Pete Nelson has been the acting chief. He has been the life and energy in the complete furnishing of the rooms throughout, while, besides, it was through his efforts that the foundation for a carefully selected library has been laid. It is plainly evident to all that Looking Down Main Street, Livingston, Montana
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