Newtown Fire and Rescue Demonstrates 1796 “Old Washy” Hand Engine
Photo by Courtesy of Newtown Fire and RescueThe Washington Fire Company 1796 Philadelphia end stroke hand engine.
Photo by Courtesy of Newtown Fire and RescueOld Washy being supplied water via hose.
Photo by Courtesy of Newtown Fire and RescueOld Washy being supplied water via hose.
Photo by Courtesy of Newtown Fire and RescueThe invited junior volunteer bucket brigade supplies water to Old Washy.
Photo by Courtesy of Newtown Fire and RescueGroup photo of the personnel that helped make an interesting fire service day.
On August 8, Newtown celebrated its 250th American anniversary with 18 activities that highlighted the history of the neighborhood.
From noon until 3:30 p.m., Newtown Fire and Rescue Station 45 held an open house and fire museum. At 1:30 p.m., the department also showcased its venerable "Old Washy" hand engine. Patrick Lyon of Philadelphia created the Philadelphia-style end-stroke hand engine known as Old Washy in 1796 for the Washington Fire Company. Although six firefighters were used during the demonstration, twelve firefighters could operate the engine.
After giving a brief overview of the device's history, firemen used water delivered via a hose to explain how it worked. After that, kids helped supply the engine by participating in a bucket brigade.
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