The Merryweather Fire Engine

Researched and written for South Molton Archive by Shirley Bray

South Molton firemen proudly standing in front of the new Merryweather Fire Engine purchased by the South Molton Corporation in 1886.  This is now one of the prized exhibits which can be seen on display in the South Molton Museum.  

In spite of their smart appearance it appears that the men were not proficient in the workings of the new engine as the following letter appeared in the South Molton Gazette Dated 4th February 1888:

Letter to the Editor – South Molton Fire Brigade

Dear Sir,

Is our Fire Brigade now so efficient that they do not require to be drilled?  And if a fire should happen to take place in the town would they be able to get the new engine to work in less than half an hour?

I noticed a short time ago that drills of the Brigade took place in the new Market.  That went on for about a month; the men had their annual dinner and nothing has been heard or seen of the Brigade or their engine since.  At Mr. Tucker’s fire the new engine which cost £130, was used for the first time and it took the so-called Brigade between ½ and ¾ of an hour to attach the fittings and after they thought they had got it in something like working order it was found that the hose had been carried into the passage of the house the wrong side first.  This had to be remedied so causing another delay.  Surely our Brigade need some instruction in their duties more frequently than just before their annual dinner.  After this fire the Brigade underwent a renovation, new members were obtained and a few drills held so as to instruct them; and no more has been heard of them.

Now sir, it is well known that practice makes perfect in all things, and therefore, so that the Brigade men shall be able to carry out their respective duties in a proper way in case of an emergency, it is necessary that they must be drilled.  The engine etc., should not be kept locked up in the Market to rust, and when called out for service only one man in the Brigade be able to put the engine in order and he to be sent to turn on the water, such as has been the case now recently.  

Hoping that the Captain will take the necessary steps for having drills without further delay.

I am dear sir, yours etc.,

                           EXTINGUISHER