ROBINSON TWP VFC - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Lt., Robert Monyak Asst. Chief, Joe Bruni Lt., Dick Story Chief
Fire companies in the area at the time consisted of just six; namely Ambridge, Sewickley, Coraopolis, Stowe Township, Neville Island and Robinson Twp VFC. Applications for active members were taken from Stowe Township applications. Due to World War II, membership was opened for the first time to auxiliary fireman to replace active members called to service. Pen and pencil sets were presented to each member entering the armed services.
The first fire truck was purchased from Imperial in June 14, 1925 (Chevy) $2,075 and delivered in the August 1925. On Septenber 10, 1928 the firemen voted to form the Robinson Twp VFC Ladies Aux. On Jan 5, 1931 Robinson Twp VFC Relief Association was formed and organized. In November, 1939, a bid was submitted for the purchase of a second fire engine, the American LaFrance from Coraopolis Borough. The truck was purchased in December, 1939. The first squad car was purchased in June, 1940. In March, 1945, action was taken on securing a new American LaFrance ($6,078)engine which is still owned and housed in the current fire station on Hayes Avenue. The first truck, American LaFrance was donated to Forest Grove's newly organized department in 1947 and in April, 1948, the members donated a bell for the fire truck to Forest Grove. Newer squads, engines and specialty trucks have been purchased throughout the years.
In 1927, land was purchased and immediate plans were made to build a garage for the fire truck. Funds for the project were solicited from the residents of Groveton and with the help of numerous individuals, the garage was built. With the addition of a second engine, an addition to the garage was completed in 1944. In 1945, land was purchased and the garage completed in 1949. The new addition was built in 1977 next door and included large bay doors with concrete block walls. Another addition ways built on to this building in 2001 to accommodate the 2000 American La France Tanker. It included a full kitchen ,Hall and weight room with lounge for all firemen.
Robinson joined the Allegheny County Fireman's Association in December, 1925. In January, 1945, the Allegheny County Fire Chiefs held their meeting for the first time in the fire hall in Groveton. Two members of the department attended the Western Pennsylvania Fireman's Convention in 1926.