“Volere è potere” Those words “to want is to be able” greet you in Genoese at the entrance of the Bomberos Voluntarios de La Boca. This isn’t just any fire station. This is the first volunteer fire department in all of Argentina.
Founded on June 2 1884 it’s a symbol of community spirit and resilience. It began in the heart of La Boca a vibrant immigrant neighborhood. The area was packed with flammable wooden buildings. Fires were a constant threat. The need for a dedicated fire service was clear.
Tomas Liberti a local resident saw the danger. He took action. He circulated an invitation in Italian. It called on his fellow citizens to join a volunteer fire brigade. The response was overwhelming. On June 2 1884 the Associazione Italiana di Bomberi Voluntarios de La Boca was born. This date is now celebrated as National Volunteer Firefighter’s Day.
Oreste Liberti Tomas’s son became the first fire chief. He led the brave volunteers. Their first real test came in November 1885. A massive fire broke out in a candle factory in nearby Barracas. Armed with just a hand pump and incredible courage they fought the blaze. Their actions earned them praise and recognition.
The early years weren’t easy. Equipment was scarce. The official Buenos Aires fire department initially viewed the volunteers with suspicion. They even tried to shut them down. A decree in 1889 prohibited the Bomberos Voluntarios from responding to fires. But the community needed them. After a devastating fire in 1890 the decree was overturned. The volunteers returned stronger than ever.
By 1900 the Bomberos Voluntarios had a new impressive headquarters. President Julio A Roca himself attended the opening ceremony. This building stands to this day. It houses not only the fire station but also a museum and a community center.
The Bomberos Voluntarios de La Boca have a long and inspiring history. They’ve faced adversity. They’ve shown bravery. They embody the spirit of La Boca and Argentina. They remain a vital part of their community. Their motto “Volere è potere” continues to guide them. Their legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire. They prove that wanting to help is the key to making a real difference.