Washington, D.C. witnessed a grand celebration on June 15, 2025, as the DC Fire Emergency Medical Services (DC FEMS) commemorated a century since the department transitioned from horse-drawn fire engines to motorized vehicles.
Hundreds of locals lined North Carolina Avenue SE for a nostalgic procession that retraced the original route taken by the first engine-powered fire truck.
The event mirrored the historic parade of 1925, when three horses named Martin, Gene, and Tom pulled Engine 18 down to Lincoln Park, marking the end of an era for equine service in the fire department.
On this occasion, three new horses — Wally, Coyote, and Gracie — were brought from Benchfield Farms to recreate that historic ride, linking past and present in a heartfelt homage.
The surroundings have changed significantly in the last century. For instance, the Rumsey Pool now occupies the former site of Engine #8, demonstrating the evolution of the community and its facilities.
Lincoln Park too has undergone transformations, with its original curved pathways being replaced by geometric designs in 1934, embodying the changes that have taken place over the years.
The procession took a different pace, however, than the lightning-fast sprint of 1925.
The 2025 event featured a more leisurely trot, ensuring visibility and crowd safety, a necessary adjustment appreciated by many attendees.
Will, a local father who attended the event with his family, remarked on the pace: “I thought the speed was a nice safe rate.”
The turnout was impressive, with attendees resembling the crowds of 1925, filling the plaza and lining North Carolina Avenue to Lincoln Park, immersing themselves in a local community event that combined history and modern-day celebrations.
DC FEMS Assistant Chief Anthony Kelleher highlighted the importance of this transition, explaining that it was more than just a farewell to the era of horse-drawn fire engines; it mirrored the evolution of firefighting technology, leading to reduced response times and enhanced service efficiency.
Kelleher reflected on the bond between firefighters and horses, stating there was something inherently human in their partnership, one built on trust and a mutual understanding of urgency in battling fires.
Tiffany, whose husband is a career firefighter, attended with her sons, expressing her excitement about the historical aspects of the event. “It’s cool to see historic pieces brought out,” she noted, while her sons echoed her sentiments, one declaring, “it’s cool,” and the other simply stating, “I liked it.”
Kelleher invoked the original run’s tradition, recalling the fire bells that rang in firehouses to honor the horse team, a memory that continues to evoke respect for the values of duty, honor, and sacrifice.
As DC Fire Commissioner Frederick Fenning stated in 1925, when a firefighter’s service culminated in retirement, proper acknowledgment was due, extending that sentiment towards the horses who likewise served the community faithfully.
The legacy of these firefighting horses was preserved by the Friendship Fire Association, which maintains the memory of the sacrifices made by firefighters of DC FEMS. Attendees were welcome to take photographs with the historic engine, displayed at DCFEMS Engine #3, where the museum honoring their service is located.
The event was further enriched by the attendance of several Dalmatians, known as traditional companions of firefighters. While some of the dogs were associated with volunteers, others belonged to local families like Victoria and William, who brought their Dalmatians, Diesel and Moxie, to observe the proceedings.
Victoria shared her connection to the horses, having previously ridden them near Chicago, and remarked on the historical bond between firefighters and Dalmatians, often serving as protectors of horse-drawn fire engines.
Children flocked to pet the horses, bringing joy to the animals and delighting in the educational experience offered by the celebration.
Families enjoyed snacks such as lemonade and popcorn balls, provided by the Friendship Fire Association, which actively supports firefighters on-site with services catered to their needs in extreme weather conditions.
In a nod to nostalgia, the DC Fire and EMS Foundation’s Executive Director, Amy Mauro, donned period attire, celebrating the event’s community spirit. Mauro noted the significance of gathering together to honor local history while supporting contemporary firefighters.
As she surveyed the crowd, Mauro expressed appreciation for the community’s coming together in love and joy, further emphasizing the importance of unity in honoring those who serve the District.
In sum, this remarkable celebration not only highlighted a pivotal change in firefighting history but also reflected on the enduring legacy of service, community, and the unbreakable bonds formed in the face of adversity.
image source from：hillrag
