Ever wonder what it takes to keep a community safe? Today we spotlight the Freiwillige Feuerwehr Kirchwerder Nord. It is a place of dedication and service.
The Freiwillige Feuerwehr Kirchwerder Nord has a rich history. It stretches back over 148 years. This makes it the second oldest fire department in Hamburg. But it is housed in one of the city’s most modern fire stations.
In 1877 the foundation was laid by farmer Hermann Heitmann. He was chosen as the first commander. Heinrich Peters became his deputy. The first hand-operated pump was stored on the Holake. It was on Kirchwerder Hausdeich. Farmers who were also firefighters provided horses. They were needed for pulling the equipment.
By its 25th anniversary the Feuerwehr had 30 members. The annual number of call-outs rarely exceeded 15. A second hand-operated pump was added in 1913. It was stationed near the church on Hausdeich.
The “Hitscherberger Feuer” on July 3 1914 was a major event. A fire started at Anna Gladiator’s home around 2 p.m.. Due to lack of water the fire quickly spread. It engulfed eleven nearby houses. It took twenty-eight hours to control the blaze.
In 1919 Hermann Heitmann stepped down after 42 years. Heinrich Peters took over as commander. Heinrich von Hacht became the new deputy. By September 5 1925 the Feuerwehr acquired its first motorized pump. It cost 3333 Reichsmark. The Freiwillige Feuerwehr Kirchwerder Nord celebrated its 50th anniversary on May 26 1927.
The fire station on Norderquerweg opened on November 10 1928. It is still in use today. The building cost 25719 Reichsmark. August Kahl replaced Ernst Kleibeler as deputy commander on August 2 1930.
Progress came in 1932. The Feuerwehr bought its first fire truck. It was a used Opel. It cost 2750 Reichsmark. Nikolaus Michaelsen succeeded August Kahl on April 7 1937.
After World War II the Feuerwehr resumed its duties. They were dedicated to protecting lives and property. Karl Kähler led until January 1951. August Scheel followed him. Ernst Neustadt served as deputy. Walter Scheer replaced him in 1953.
The Freiwillige Feuerwehr Kirchwerder Nord marked its 75th anniversary in 1952. The community showed great support. People were optimistic despite the past wars. Walter Scheer became area leader in 1956. Hans von Deyn took his place in the Feuerwehr.
A severe storm caused a major flood on February 17 1962. The Feuerwehr worked all night. They filled sandbags to repair breaches in the dike. The flood had a devastating impact. The Freiwillige Feuerwehr Kirchwerder Nord hopes that such a catastrophe never happens again.
Heinrich Wobbe replaced Werner Klüver in 1964. The Feuerwehr responded to three major fires between 1964 and 1966. These included the Heinrich Grube shipyard Willi Lüttens house and the Ohde bakery. In 1966 the Feuerwehr acquired a second large vehicle LF 16 Ts.
The Freiwillige Feuerwehr Kirchwerder Nord continues to serve. They protect the community. Their modern equipment and dedicated members stand ready. They answer the call whenever needed. The firefighters exemplify commitment and courage. They ensure the safety of Kirchwerder Nord.