Arlington Fire Department Marks 100 Years with Community Celebration

BENNINGTON, Vt. NewsWK — The Arlington Fire Department is set to celebrate a century of service to Arlington and neighboring communities with a special carnival event. Typically held each summer, this year’s carnival will take place over two days, from Friday, July 17, to Saturday, July 18, and will commemorate the department’s 100th anniversary.

The fire department, officially organized in 1921, has deep roots in the community. Jamie Paustian, a member of the department and former fire chief, noted that the department started with a steam pump in East Arlington and has grown significantly since then. Originally planned for 2021, the centennial celebration was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this year’s festivities particularly significant.

Celebration Details

The event will kick off on Friday at 5 p.m. at the Arlington Recreation Park on Route 7A, featuring carnival rides, hayrides, games, and prizes until 9:30 p.m. On Saturday, July 18, a parade will start at Arlington Memorial High School at 2 p.m., culminating back at the Recreation Park. The day will include additional carnival activities and a raffle for a Blackstone barbecue grill, ending with fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Challenges Ahead

While this celebration is a time of joy, it also highlights ongoing challenges for the department. Paustian indicated that the department is currently short on volunteer firefighters, a common issue in many communities today. With a full roster ideally consisting of around 45 volunteers, they are currently operating with about 30. This shortage is compounded by an increase in call volume, with annual responses rising from approximately 110-120 calls in 1990 to about 190 in recent years.

Darrin Jennings, president of the fire department’s board of directors, emphasized recruitment as a pressing concern. He noted that while the town supports the department with equipment, the need for more volunteers is critical. To maintain the all-volunteer model, Jennings suggested that the community may eventually need to consider hiring paid staff to ensure responsiveness.

Community Involvement

As the department prepares for its anniversary celebration, residents are invited to participate in the festivities. Donations of baked goods for the cake wheel at the carnival are welcomed, and Paustian expressed enthusiasm for the community gathering around rides, music, and the parade.

This event not only honors the rich history of the Arlington Fire Department but also serves as a reminder of the importance of community support in sustaining essential services. The challenges of staffing and increased call volume underscore the ongoing need for volunteer firefighters in our area.