Sunday, October 21st, 1956 @ 14:00

Nature: Mortgage Burning Ceremony

City: Oak Orchard

Mortgage Burning Ceremonies - October 1956

Some 60 years ago, on Sunday, October 21st, 1956, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company hosted a mortgage burning event to celebrate the paying off of the building mortgage for then Station #1 in Oak Orchard. 

Mortgage burning events were a common occurrence in the earlier years and are nearly unheard of in the present-day United States for a few reasons. Mortgage burning parties are still held by non-profit entities such as churches, fire companies, and other charitable entities.

This event was hosted by the fire company and ladies auxiliary and included a program with guest speakers being the like of the Honorable J. Caleb Boggs, Governor of the State of Delaware and other local dignitaries.

As reiterated in the event program “We want to thank all friends and contributors that have helped make this day and fire possible.”

A brief synopsis is illustrated herewith...

Facility Construction and Acquisition

In 1954, the organization committee borrowed money and built our first new building at the current site in Oak Orchard. The initial building was a 30’ x 60’ structure that included two engine bays, a kitchen area, and restrooms. John T. Rogers Construction Company built the structure of $6,500 and the building was paid for within two years. The fire company membership raised funds by hosting dinners, pigeon shoots, oyster ears, carnivals, 50-50s, stock car races at Georgetown Speedway, and numerous other activities.

Additional information can be reviewed via the following link:  http://www.irvfc.com/gallery/detail?id=23075

Included are photographs of the event program and photo.

Photograph information…. Attendees (left to right) Granville White, President – Delaware State Volunteer Firemen’s Association; Elisha Steele, Vice President – Millsboro Trust Co.; Ray Price, Past President – Indian River Volunteer Fire Co.; J. Caleb Boggs, Governor – State of Delaware; Thomas Whitledge, President – Indian River Volunteer Fire Co.; Rev. Thomas Mulligan, State Fire Chaplain; and Owen Davis, President – Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association.