The Beckwith Volunteer Fire Department is marking its 60th anniversary, celebrating decades of service and dedication to the community. Formed in 1964, the department started with just one pumper truck and minimal gear, relying on 30 local volunteers.
Before its creation, Beckwith Township depended on Carleton Place’s Ocean Wave Fire Company for fire protection.
In its early years, fire calls were received through a fire phone system, with volunteers’ families spreading the word. The department switched to a pager system in 1974, still in use today. Over the years, the department expanded its equipment, now boasting three pumper trucks, two tanker trucks, and an equipment van.
Beckwith has had only five Fire Chiefs, with Ian Jackson appointed in 2022. Gary McEwen, who joined in 1964, is still an active member.
The community thanks all past and present volunteers for their bravery and service.
Photograph of the once Newly Formed Beckwith Volunteer Fire Department in 1964
1st Row: Finley McEwen, Gordon Presley, Deputy-Chief Herb Butterworth, Chief Robert Brooks, Captain Duncan Dakers, Orval Cooke, Warner McDiarmid
2nd Row: Percy Leach, Jack Briscoe, Arthur Nesbitt, Carl Lewis, Cornell McRae, Herb Gardiner, Willard Legree
3rd Row: Andrew McRae, Gary McEwen, Keith Brunton, John Kidd, Howard Bennett, Alex Stewart, Bill McCauley, Harold Shail