On Sunday, August 27, 2000 the "Court of Honor" was dedicated. It was constructed to remember all the men and women, past and present who dedicated their time and talents to make Richfield a wonderful place to live. This project was organized by the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company and the Richfield Lions and Lioness Clubs.

A very special thank you to all those that donated their their time or material to help make this possible:

Dan Pepprock Masonry
Glen & Mark Guenther Masonry
Gary Stuettgen Masonry
Rob Kraetsch Masonry
Norb Kohl Masonry
Ron Schneider Masonry
Merv Rafco Masonry
Erin Electric
Licitar Excavating
Schmitz Redi-Mix
Zignego Redi-Mix
Quality Block
Bob Wilfer Welding
Messig Wood Crafting
Wissota Sand & Gravel
Schulteis Top Soil
Scott Construction
Al Wolf & Associates
D & L Specialties

Richfield Volunteer Fire Company

Serving the Community Since 1900

The Century Unfolds 1900

With the turn of the century, a commitment to serving and protecting the community was affirmed. Twenty-one men gathered on June 2,1900 to convene the first meeting of the Richfield Fire Company. The first order of business was to declare their existence to local communities. The meeting on June 2nd was spent planning parade attire for the Tournament at Schlesingerville (now known as Slinger). All volunteers would need to pay for their own uniforms. The festive day arrived. Richfield was proudly represented by modern, turn-of-thecentury apparel. Blue checkered shirts and white pants secured with red belts marched through the dusty streets. Three meetings were held that first June. Besides planning for the parade, other decisions needed to be made. By the end of June, the first fire chief was elected, Edward Schwamb. Meetings were held in the homes of the volunteers. Much time was spent planning social events that could subsidize the expensive needs of a developing company. The original members who pledged their devotion to the greater needs of the community that summer evening in 1900 were:

Official Richfield Fire Company minutes of the early 1900s recorded the growth of a small community volunteer department. For a fee of $1.20 and a desire to serve, anyone could join. In the early years, the company was equipped with buckets and axes. There was no protective gear, fire equipment or engines. Even finding a water supply was problematic. The surrounding communities of Maywille, Kohlsville and Germantown offered mutual aid to the town.

Extending the Commitment

On the evening of July 9,1917, twenty-three men met at Jacob Schwamb's hall to confirm their commitment to the residents of Richfield. A committee had been formed to review constitutions and by-laws from area fire departments. Based on the contents in the Germantown Fire Company documents, by-laws and an official constitution were drafted. As documented in the minutes on this historic night, each man signed his name beneath the heading, " In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and agree to same, this 16 day of July 1917." in addition to the original twenty-three men that signed that evening, thirty-seven men signed their allegiance over the next eight months.

A motion was made that the name of the company be Richfield Volunteer Fire Company. The motioned was carried. William C. Meyer, previously the First Assistant, was elected as Fire Chief.

Trustees were directed to purchase two extension ladders, two single ladders with hooks, six hook and pike-poles, one dozen fiber pails and three rubber coats with hats. A committee was established to investigate purchasing a new engine. All members were instructed to assist in choosing a new location for the fire station.

The summer was spent planning a fund-raising Labor Day dance. Richfield businesses agreed to close at 8:00 p.m. on Labor Day so that the whole town could celebrate at the dance together. The activity was a success with a profit of $304.58.

A special meeting was called to order on October 18,1917 to vote on the purchase of a new engine. The Howe Fire Apparatus Company sent Mr. Johnson as their representative to Richfield to explain the specific features on Engine No. 38. On February 18,1918 the engine was delivered. The motion was made, "all in favor of purchasing this engine, please stand". All firemen rose to their feet. With a unanimous decision, $750.00 was spent on the apparatus. Obtaining a new engine ignited the desire in the firemen to forge ahead. There were cisterns to build, a new fire station to acquire, and with the addition of new members, there was more equipment to purchase. The fire company worked diligently the entire year raising money to afford all the advancements they were committed to.

The fire company sponsored card parties, talent shows, dances andbazaars. The entire community became involved in raising money.

New Fire House

In August, 19L8, the department purchased the old saloon property known as the Nick Werner Place for $675.00. A new flag purchased by donations from the firefighters proudly waved over the new firehouse. The next spring, electric lights were installed in the house.

Cisterns

To best supply Richfield with water, the department decided to build two cisterns. One of the cisterns would be on the south side of town, just north of the Laubenheimer's Garage and one on the north side of town, across from Jacob Schwamb's place,

Originally, it was hoped that the township would feel obliged to contribute to the construction of the cisterns. When no financial support was agreed on by the township, the fire company sought alternate plans. The company considered charging every Richfieid resident that lived in town one dollar every month until the debt was covered. After two months of debate, this idea was overturned. Elevated considerably from original estimates, the final cost of the cisterns was $1278.50.

The firemen were anxious for the cisterns to be excavated. Multiple delays hampered the construction, Minutes from the February 3,1919 meeting stated, "rf we do the excavating ourselves we will get the cisterns built easier (faster)", There are no records indicating the exact date the cisterns were functional. However, completion occurred about eight months after the initial estimates were acquired.

The year was spent creatively designing fund-raisers to pay off the note on the cisterns.

In addition to the usual dances and picnics, a poultry tournament/raffle was initiated. Each member needed to donate a foul of any kind. In keeping with tradition, area businesses closed whenever the fire company held activities. In the summer of 1919 a local businessman offered a $15.00 donation if he could keep his business open. "All the members were very much worked up about it and did not seem to like it a bit that he keep his place of business opert," recorded the secretary. TWenty-one, out of the twenty-five in attendance voted not to accept the donation. The business in question closed for the August 3'd picnic.

And Then There Was Fire

Although there are not written accounts in firehouse records describing the details of early 1900s firefighting in Richfield, it is easy to envision what it would have been like. Picture a hot August night, a flurry of sparks and cinders threatening a sleeping family. Out for a late evening walk, two neighbors view black smoke billowing into the night air. One neighbor frantically runs to the house to alert the occupants, while the other screarrrs "FIRE, FIRE, FIRE" as he runs toward the firehouse. Others soon take up the chant in shrill and compelling voices. The bell in the tower of the engine house sounds a continuous ring shattering the stillness of the night. A team of horr", from the livery stable is hooked up to the hand pumper. The once blackened street now is illuminated by countless lanterns of panicking friends. Heartbeats pound that gut-wrenching beat only felt when unmistakable disaster is at hand. Intoxicated on adrenaline, fire fighters mount the hand pump engine. Hoofs pound the ground as horses race to the checkered flag of heroism.

The two hose carts are pulled to the fire with the strength and sweat of additional fire fighters. The newly excavated cistern on the north end of town serves as a 25,000 gallon reservoir of hope. A suction (drafting) hose is lowered into the cistem as the foreman commands, "all hands on the spritz". Six men stand on each side of the hand pumper, their attention fixated on the task at hand. Firmly grasped onto the hand rail they b"g* the teeter-tottering motion to pump water through the hose.

Like a giant torch, flames soar to the heavens as the wood frame is eaten alive by the famished fire. The crackling and roaring of the blaze echoes above the cries of the town. There is no calming the infemo giant until every last timber is destroyed. Without tumouts the fire fighters have no protection against the scorching evil they battle. Could a medieval warrior ever conquer an army without a suit of armor?

Charred faces and singed overalls retreat from the battlefield. Despite genuine commitment to the cause and every bit of strength the town could muster, defeat is at hand.

Advancements

The 1920s brought about a decade of advancements in managing the Fire Company. Chief Meyer appointed auditors to inspect financial records. Insurance was purchased on the engine house and its contents.

Weekly fire practices were required for all volunteers where the latest fire fighting techniques were taught. A representative from the Electric Company in-serviced the men on, "never throwing streams of water on electric wires because it would mean death to the men holding the nozzle"

The Richfield Volunteer Fire Company joined the Badger Fireman Association. The latest trends in fire technology were available by being a member of the association. Keeping in step with local departments, fireman badges were purchased.

By spring, 1921, the Richfield Brass Band joined in efforts with the fire company to organize fund-raisers. This seemed like a natural camaraderie since many of the men participated both in the band and on the fire department. In February, 1922, with the permission of the fire department, the band officially changed its name to the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company Band.

Under the direction of the Industrial Commission of Wisconsin, the fire company began inspecting newly constructed chimneys. At the annual business meeting, two inspectors were elected to serve a one-year term. This position was compensated $2.00 for each inspection completed.

With the growth of the community, another cistern was purchased in1924. This time the fire company could afford to pay without borrowing money as in previous years. Fundraisers continued to play a vital role in the expansion and modernization of the company. A Booster Club was organized to assist with planning fund-raisers.

Years of Transition

Official fire department records from 1925 through 1945 do not reside with the department. Therefore, precise fire company operations are not available. During this time frame, under the leadership of Chief Herman Wolf, the department traded horse power for horsepower. Equipment upgrades continued as community fund-raisers supplied the capital.

Fire company records from 1945 depict the largest membership to date with the fewest attending the meetings. It is speculated that the travesty WWII inflicted around the wor1d, affected Richfield's corner of the world also. Minutes from January 7, 1946 state that the midwinter banquet which had been dispensed with for the duration of the war could now resume.

Fire calls were now being recorded at monthly meetings. Poor response to an evening fire on February 79,7946 prompted the need to improve the outdated bell tower. The new alarm system involved a wire running from the siren to the chief's house. The operator would place one long continuous "fire-ring" to all fire-fighters. The siren mounted on the Richfield State Bank was also sounded for those firemen that may have been out in the fields.

It was evident by 1947 that the fire company had outgrown its quarters. Land was purchased from the Laubenheimer estate to build a new fire station. A committee was appointed by Chief Wolf to investigate the purchase of a new truck and tanker. Membership that year rose to 88 volunteers. By 1948, membership escalated to 108 firemen. In the days of the department's infancy, every penny earned was quickly spent. There was no money for uniforms, equipment, or an engine house. Most of the company's energy was spent on sponsoring fund-raising social events. In 1949, as if an adolescent with his first full-time job over summer vacation, the department had a substantial cash balance. The official vote was to invest the surplus. The department was not only becoming larger each year, but fiscally stronger.

A New Fire House for the Volunteers

In May of 1950, the topic once again surfaced that a new fire house was needed. Volunteers requested that the structure be at least 100'by 40'with an attached hall. Chief Wolf instructed all firemen to gather information. The target date for completion was autumn.

Lengthy discussions and indecision plagued the department the following month. The chief appointed an official committee comprised of officers, trustees and four firemen to decide the building details. The company asked that it go on official record that they wanted the fire house to be 120'by 40'.

Decisions regarding the design of the structure were finalized in September. A building permit was obtained and construction began. Volunteers supplied much of the labor over the next several months. This greatly decreased building costs. As in days of old, great dedication to the department was evident. It was a dedication of the heart and soul, not one that a price could be put on.

The volunteers and contractors worked through the winter and then through the spring. Summer months were spent completing the final touches. It was a whole year later, the following September, before the new fire house was completed. The brand new, spacious, modern engine house was welcomed with open arms by the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company.

The old fire house was sold for $3300.00.

Ladies Auxiliary

For decades the wives of the firefighters stayed quietly in the background. There is no mention of the work they did at any of the social events held before the 1950s. In reading official fire department records it would appear as if all social events were planned and implemented solely by the men. However, tradition would suggest the contrary.

Funds were running low in the spring of 1952 due to the costs of building the new fire house. Three of the wives offered to host card parties to raise money. They suggested that the first profits be put into improving the kitchen facilities so that subsequent events could benefit from that initial refurbishing. The card parties were so profitable that they became monthly events over the next several decades.

In early June, 1955, it was suggested at the monthly fire company meeting that the secretary officially invite the women to the annual meeting. The response was gratefully received. Approximately twenty wives and girlfriends attended the June 28, 1955 meeting. The invitation was an acknowledgment of gratitude for years of all the work done behind the scenes.

During the meeting, a motion was made that the ladies form an organized auxiliary to assist with hall maintenance and social functions. The motion was quicklv seconded and carried. From that year forward, women attended the annual meetings.

Growth in the 50s

The town of Polk requested ihat the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company handle fire calls in designated sections of the town. In1952 the contract was signed. The town of Erin requested the same in 1955.

Additional land was purchased in 1956 adjacent to the fire house. This is now Herman J. Wolf Fireman's Park. The fire department was continuously growing. They owned land, equipment, fire apparatus and an engine house. On Mav 6,7957, six short years after the loan was obtained, the fire station was paid off. The company celebrated with a ceremonial "burning of the mortgage" leaving the department free of debt.

Expanding the Rescue Services

It all started with the purchase of a resuscitator in December, 1958. Official fire company records indicate it was purchased after a convincing demonstration by the manufacturer. However, there is no record of further training or even use of the resuscitator. Then, in October, 1959, one lone entry in the Company's book of minutes states, "resuscitator call in Colgate". Resuscitator calls were logged nearly each month for the next several years. Throughout the 1960s, fire calls exceeded rescue calls at a 4:1 ratio.

The Richfield Volunteer Fire Company Rescue Squad was formed in the early 1960s.

Initially armed with only a first aid kit and resuscitator, the rescue squad served as emergency personnel at the scene but could not transport. An ambulance was haled from neighboring Slinger to provide additional medical services and transportation. Although this was a suitable arrangement, precious time was lost because of the distance the ambulance traveled to Richfield. It would be another ten years before the Bark Lake ambulance service would be available to improve response time.

The 1960s; loss and gains

By 1967, the department was obtaining bids to expand the fire house. Picnics, socials and card parties continued to bring in additional revenue. Like previous years, equipment was updated, vehicle maintenance completed. Electric apparatus bay-doors were installed. The year was like any other until December 30, 1967.

Robert C. Pickhard lost his life early that Saturday morning while fighting a house fire in the town of Colgate. Pickhard is the only Richfield fire-fighter to have given his life in the line of duty. At the annual department meeting in June of 7968, all members and guests stood in silence, respectfully remembering Pickhard. The true danger of the job and reality of its commitment was never more apparent as that day when they stood together in silence.

Chief Herman Wolf was elected President of the Washington County Fire Chiefs Association in 1968. His thirty-nine years as fire chief earned him the respect of his peers. His small, local, volunteer company emerged as a fiscally sound, well managed fire department.

Fire inspections were being conducted on local businesses. A practice night included a scheduled car fire. By the spring of 1969, a greater focus was directed to drills and training. Instruction books on fire training were purchased. The department was gaining insight into the value education and training played in all fire companies. The decade came to a close on a note of invigoration for the future.

Advancements in the 1970s

The annual meeting of the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company was called to order by Chief Herman Wolf on June 30, 1970. Chief Wolf offered his appreciation to all present for the many donations of time, labor, money and talent given to the department during the past year. Chief Wolf then announced his retirement after 41 years in this position. He expressed his gratitude to past and present residents who helped during his term of office. A standing ovation ensued for the man who guided the department through more than four decades of continuous change. Assistant Chief Kenneth Wolf became his successor, following in his father's footsteps.

An open house was held during National Fire Prevention week. Over 400 local residents attended. The department had discovered a successful method of educating the public on fire safety. An open house has been hosted nearly every year since.

During 1971, the department participated in a disaster drill. Advanced first aid instruction was offered. A radio communication class was held as Washington County standardized the radio communications for fire departments county wide.

Communication was further enhanced with the arrival of ten new 10-10 monitors and two pocket Pagers.

Advances continued throughout the early 1970s. OSHA compliance was the new buzz word as departments needed to meet requirements mandated. Operation yellow ball; to save a child's life was initiated. Volunteers were encouraged to enroll in an EMT class which ran for twenty-five consecutive weeks. In keeping with the times, liability insurance was increased. After more than a year in planning, two stand pipes were installed on the cisterns.

A study committee was organized in 1974 to determine the feasibility of building an additional fire station. While the committee was gathering information, Chief Dale Sutherland from the Lake Five Volunteer Fire Department requested financial assistance from Richfield. The two departments decided that a merger wouid create a more efficient and economical service to the community. The committee recommended that a new station be built 1/2 mile north of Elmwood on State Hwy 164 (Hwy J at that time). It was suggested that Lake Five Volunteer Fire Department equipment and manpower be used to run the station.

The two departments had frequently worked together on fire calls in the. past. They would now both benefit by forming one department. Ground was broken in August, 1971 for Station No. 2. The grand opening of the new station was hosted on Sunday, October 5, 1975, the first day of National Fire Prevention week.

1975 brought about a few other changes. The fire department became incorporated. At an October meeting, a motion was made and carried to order engine 1961 in lime yellow. "Red" fire engines across America were being replaced with bright coiors to increase their visibility at night.

Fire training continued to evolve during the mid 7970s. To become recognized as a firefighter an individual needed to complete six months of apprenticeship, pass the standard firemen's training course and complete the standard and advanced first aid courses. Meetings and practice sessions were held weekly, to maintain competence.

An ever increasing emphasis was put on education. There were three EMT classes to choose from: EMT, Advanced EMT, or Multi Medic. Voiunteers were encouraged to enroll in Firemanship I and II.

Purchasing of apparatus, upgrading equipment and improving communication were areas of focus. In 1975, a pumper was purchased. A park was landsiaped behind Station No. 1. The parking lot at Station No. 2 was blacktopped. Two-way radios were purchased along with Motorola pagers.

In 1977 the department had access to the county's Jaws of Life, a tool used in extrications. Fifteen scanners were purchased as a more efficient method to alert all active members. The department ordered 220 Richfield emblems for uniforms.

Chief Dick Becker from the Bark Lake Fire Department met with Richfield on December 13, 1977. He expressed their desire to purchase additional land, possibly building a new fire house. He questioned whether their department with its current location was an important annex to Richfield. Chief Wolf confirmed that the Bark Lake Fire Department should continue to expand and it was a definite asset to the community. He felt that upgrading equipment was the right direction to go. The two leaders agreed on joint department training programs for EMTs. Richfield EMTs were invited to work on the Bark Lake ambulance

Ending the Decade

There was an ever increasing availability of classes to choose from. Chief Wolf encouraged the members to take advantage of any classes they could. Advanced Fire Training was offered at Thiensville, while Fire Apparatus Operation was given at Port Washington. Moraine Park Technical Institute held Fire Fighting with Foam, Hazardous Materials and Arson Detection. Flamable Liquid School was offered in Hartford. Lakeshore Technical College in Sheboygan sponsored a seminar on "Confrontation by Professional Persons on Dying and Death". Four fire company members attended scuba school and were certified as divers.

Interest also grew in emergency medicine. The Lions Club donated a Resusca-Annie with the latest recording equipment. There was much debate over expanding the fire department's rescue service. Recommendations by some members to purchase a rescue vehicle were met with initial resistence. However, a rescue/equipment truck was eventually approved, arriving in February, 1979. New rescue kits were obtained. Fourteen orange EMT jackets were purchased for Richfield and four jackets for Bark Lake.

Women's involvement in emergency medical services was greatly increasing in urban, suburban and rural communities. Three women officiallv ioined the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company as EMTs.

Attention was given to the grounds surrounding Station No. 1. A concession building and park shelter were erected. Within a year a cooler was purchased, "to keep the beer cold", and a water and telephone line were installed. Bleachers were purchased. A baseball diamond was created. The tanker was used to flood the infield in the winter to make an ice rink. Two months preceding the annual business meeting of 1979, Chief Ken Wolf requested that he not be considered as a candidate for chief. He suggested that the department consider dividing the duties between a fire chief and a president. A representative from the Germantown Fire Department attended the Richfield Board of Directors meeting in April of 1979. He explained that the by-laws could be amended to include two separate positions. The president would be in charge of administrative duties of the corporation. The chief would be responsible for all fires and fire apparatus.

The amendment was explained to the membership. Chief Wolf requested a ballot, voting comrnenced ; 23-yes, 19- no. The ayes had it, For the first time in the history of the department, a president and vice president were elected. Ralph Kohl became the first president. Dave Haertel was elected chief. Chief Wolf served his community and lead the department throughout the decade. He was the catalyst for the advancements and improvements that were desperately needed to keep up with the ever changing fire fighting technology. He was a strong advocate for fire prevention education in the community. He arranged for his officers to attend officers' training. He highly encouraged all fire-fighters to attend local technical colleges to learn advanced fire tactic skills. His tremendous push for higher education for firemanship became the new standard. Like his father before him, Chief Kenneth Wolf was acknowledged for his dedicated service on his final day as chief with a standing ovation.

Improvements Continue Throughout the 1980s

Chief Haertl met with Chief Becker from Bark Lake and Chief Kramer from Friess Lake to discuss the need for consistency between the departments. It was decided to have everyone train under one department.

Internal processes were becoming more fine tuned in the early 1980s. Members were taught the importance of accurate records of who was on scene. Firefighters who came directly to the scene were instructed to check in with the officer in charge. A policy was initiated that required a member to have at least two years of service in the department before being allowed to drive an emergency vehicle unless authorized by the officer in charge. Chief Haertl stressed that it was the responsibility of each department member to secure a replacement if they were not available on the weekend they had call. This premise was essential for the department to run efficiently.

The Washington County Sheriffs' Department was instituted as dispatcher. A new radio tower was installed allowing the radio base and alerting system to function out of Station Washington County No. 1. An alerting back-up system was installed in case there was a power outage. TWo Motorola 2-way radios with a 100 watt unit were purchased. The outdated alerters were replaced with Motorola pagers.

For the first time in the history of the department, there were more "nonfire" calls than "fire" calls. At the annual business meeting held on June 30, 1981., 119 runs were reported throughout the year. Of these, 59 or just under 50% were fire calls. One year later, the percentage of fire calls fell significantly. In 1982, only 35% of the calls were fire related. This was a dramatic difference when compared to earlier years. Seventeen years earlier, 85% of the calls were fire related (out of 52 runs, 44 were fire calls). This trend of ever increasing rescue calls would continue throughout the next twenty years.

By 1982, the teamwork between the Richfield and Bark Lake fire departments grew. Chief Haertl requested that both departments be alerted to all fire and rescue calls by the dispatcher. He further recommended that Bark Lake ambulance automatically respond to all major structural fires in Richfield.

Chief Haertl was appointed Deputy for the Department of Industry, Labor and Human Relations. He was responsible for the fire inspectors and inspections.

For the past several decades, insurance coverage and costs had been an ongoing discussion. Rates were continuously increased as more expensive equipment was purchased. Additional risk coverage for fire, theft, wind, etc. was needed for both stations.

Insurance coverage was a major expense and topic of discussion over the years. By the early 1980s, insurance coverage expanded into the many facets of liability. Coverage was now needed on everyone from the EMTs to the bartenders that worked at the firemen's hall. Liability insurance was dramatically increased on the park, the hall, the concession stand and both stations. Liability of officers was also in the forefront. Officers were responsible to ensure that all fire-fighters were in full turn out gear at fires.

Fire fighting training expanded in the 80s. A semi trailer was donated to the department to be set up as a smoke-training- unit. Drills were held for firefighters during the summer. Educational offerings were diversifying. The Badger Firemen's Association held courses in; Cold Water-Near Drowning and Rural Fire Fighting Tactics. Moraine Park Technical Institute offered Air Mask Maintenance. Fire-fighters attended an Auto Arson seminar, a Swift Water Rescue seminar and an inservice on Radiological Equipment. There was a Command Post seminar for officers.

In January, 1983, the by-laws were amended to change the operating year from a fiscal year of July 1 through June 30, to a calendar year. All officers kept their positions for an additional six months to establish the new calendar year.

ISO Rating

In April of 1982, Chief Haertl explained to the membership the importance of an Insurance Service Organization (ISO) rating. The Insurance Rating Bureau issued a rating of "nine" for Richfield. In order to improve the rating, Richfield would need to supply, a 250 gallon per minute continuous flow for a minimum of two hours in at least 40% of the town. After much preparation, a water movement test was scheduled for December 13th. It took nine months to obtain the long awaited results. The department went from an unprotected Class Nine to a protected Class Eight. This constituted a savings in insurance premiums.

Although pleased with the new rating, Chief Haertl sought a lower one. He corresponded with the Insurance Rating Bureau for specifics that Richfield would need to accomplish in order to lower the rating. He was given a list which included:

1. Telephone directory listings needed to be listed for both emergencv and nonemergency under the community and the fire department
2. Fire stations needed to be listed separately
3. All pumpers should be service tested annually with records kept
4. Tanker capacity needed to be increased by 2,000 gailons with decreased tanker fill time

In an address to the membership in 1984, Chief Haertl confirmed his desire to reach Class Six within the year. However, it would be another decade before this feat was accomplished. In February, 1986, the department achieved a Class Seven rating. The department currently holds a Class Six ISO rating. This is a very distinguished rating considering Richfield must truck all the water.

The Continuing Evolution in the Mid 1980s

Chief Haertl promoted education as feverishly as his predecessor. He required all members to attend at least four training meetings per year. The chief directed that all new fire-fighter applicants pass a Firemanship I class along with the State Certification Test for Firemanship I in order to be accepted into the department.

1984 saw many accomplishments. The department purchased a 3,000 gallon tank truck. With this purchase, previous equipment and Bark Lake's truck, the fire company had the capacity of 11,700 gallons of water on wheels. With the new filling appliance, tankers could be refilled at 1,000 gallons per minute. During the year, remodeling of Station No. 2 added an office, meeting room and kitchen. Training Officer, Assistant Chief Roger Danner, received the Instructor of the Year Award from Morraine Park Technical Institute.

By-law changes occurred in 1985 to greater increase the involvement of the volunteers. Active members were required to attend six business meetings and six drills annually unless excused by the board. Once a member served for twenty years he could request to be excused from the requirements.

Following in the footsteps that Chief Herman Wolf walked in 1968, Chief Dave Haertl was elected President of the Washington County Chiefs' Association in 1986.

Chief Haertl continued instituting advancements and improvements. In 1987, he oriented the volunteers to a disaster plan. He provided all members with written Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure consistency. He educated the department on proposed laws and the impact they would have on fire departments. He promoted confidentiality of local residents by enforcing that fire calls, inspections, and fire department business should not be discussed outside of the department. The chief ordered that there would be no further riding on the tail boards of any apparatus to ensure safety. Persons riding in the jump seats and in the back of the grass fire truck must wear seat belfs and straps provided.

Although a minor notation in the history of the department, a significant trend in EMS was instituted in July 1987 when volunteers were instructed to wear rubber gloves on all rescue calls. Health care workers across the globe were responding to the need for protection against blood borne pathogens.

The Washington County Sheriff's Department was no longer going to provide the Jaws tool. Upon hearing the news, Richfield immediately put fund-raisers inio place to purchase their own. A donation from the Richfield Lionettes, donations from private individuals, profits from the annual baseball tournament and the fourth of July picnic enabled the department to purchase a Hurst Jaws of Life Tool.

In February of 1989, Bark Lake Fire Department and Friess Lake Volunteer Fire Department were asked to join the Richfield Department. Costs of functioning independently were elevating, especially insurance premiums. Although the departments were already holding drills together and responding to each others calls, an official merger was a huge step and thought-provoking decision. A committee was formed as the debates ensued. There was a sense of pride associated with having a fire department formed out of the sweat and passion of ones own commununity. After all the struggles, all the accomplishments, it would be difficult to lose the identity established after so many years of hard work.

On December 1,1989, Friess Lake merged with Richfield. On May 1, 1990, Bark Lake merged with Richfield.

Fred Wolf became the second president of the department in 1989. Chief Dave Haertl was appointed Deputy Director of the Washington County Emergency Operation's Plan. Richfield leadership was once again recognized on the greater playing field.

In the late 1980s, Chief Haertl reminded the membership that the duties of the fire department were not only to respond to emergencies, but to take an active role in fire prevention training. He envisioned a tool that could be used to provide fire simulation training using a fog machine to produce the blinding effects of smoke and train people how to escape. The chief received approval, and bought a 1960 used mobile home. Lt. Don Block was assigned the task of converting the home into a training tool. With the help of a local carpenter, the extensive project was underway. Plumbing, heating, interior, walls and floors were removed. The transformation that ensued created one of the first Survive Alive Training trailers. The trailer was used throughout the 1990s at fire prevention open houses, fairs, churches and for private groups.

The Role the 1990s Played in Fire Fighting History

The changing times brought new issues for the department. There were Hepatitis inoculations necessary for EMTs and first responders as the company was viewed as an employer needing to provide protection to its employees. The department needed to enforce no full beards on men as the Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) could not be secure properly. One fireman quit to avoid shaving his beard. Cameras were available on the scene to take pictures of anything suspicious or for use in court. Volunteers were now paid a per hour rate for fire and rescue calls, school or drills. The latest search and rescue techniques were instituted. A computer system was installed to maintain more accurate records.

Chief Dave Haertl ended his twelve years as chief for the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company. His well defined knowledge of fire fighting and his leadership skills created an atmosphere for the department to soar.

Chief Roger Danner served from 1991 through 1993. Chief Danner brought his knowledge of being an EMT and his experience of being the previous training officer. His committment to the importance of education was evident as he assisted with the training of surrounding fire departments on weekends. Dave Frailing served as president during this term.

In 1993, Terry Kohl was elected chief. Lt. Donald Block was elected as president of the corporation. The primary focus in these years of continuously advancing technology was to promote training and education. Only through a strong foundation of knowledge could a department flourish. Chief Kohl advocated that all volunteers further their education through courses offered at technical colleges, local seminars, department sponsored inservices, training sessions and drills.

The variety of programs a volunteer could attend greatly increased throughout the 90s. These included: haz-mat training on flammable liquids and foam, vehicle extrication, disaster drills, child abuse detection classes, a farm injury class, farm accident drills, blood borne pathogen classes, MPO classes and advanced airway schooling. The local technical college offered an Incident Command Course, while the Milwaukee Safety Academy sponsored a Mass Casualty Incident Seminar. Area hospitals conducted lectures on diseases and injuries, such as; spinal cord injuries, Diabetes and neurological disorders.

Richfield hosted the Wisconsin State Fire Apparatus Driver Operator Course and the State Certified Driver Operator Class for Pump Operators. The National Fire Academy sponsored a class on Instructional Techniques for Company Officers.

In 1995, a manual was created to provide company members with complete information regarding the rules, regulations, suggested operating guidelines and general knowledge for proper conduct and behavior as a member of the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company. The manual was preficed with the department's goal, mission and objective.

Although Monday evenings had been set aside for department business nearly since the department's inception, they had now become even more structured:
1^st Monday - Monthly business meeting
2^nd Monday - Apparatus Maintenance
3^rd Monday - Fire drill / EMS personnel station maintenance
4^th Monday - EMS drill / Fire personnel station maintenance
5^th Monday - Additional drill or maintenance

The On Scene Accountability Program started in June of 1995. This program required that all I.D. tags be fastened on the ring on the back of the helmets. They would be taken off and left with the vehicle that the fire-fighter arrived in.

On September 1, 1995, the department earned an ISO rating of Class Six. Twenty years earlier Chief Haertl envisioned that with enough persistence and hard work this could be possible.

Emergency medicine was making great advances. Richfield was committed to continuously improving the services they could offer to the community. The EMTs learned how to administer Epinephrine for anaphylaxis. Combi-tube placement training was completed. To maintain competency, recert classes were held every six months on Epi administration, combi-tube insertion and defibrilation with the Medical Control Doctor present.

Chief Kohl's view on education encompassed not only his volunteers, but the community at large. The Learn Not to Burn Program was initiated in September of 1995. Fire-fighters presented fire awareness and prevention information to three county schools that fall. The program was expanded in later years to include all grade schools in the response area.

The Richfield community not only benefited from the fire department, but financially supported it. In the early 1900s, businesses closed when a fund-raising event was held so that everyone in the town could attend. As years went by, the Jaycees, Lions, Lionettes (later known as Lions Wives) and the Lionesses raised countless dollars to support the expensive cost of running a fire department. Their dedication to the fire-fighters is admirable; volunteers helping volunteers.

In 1998, the company held a cash raffle to raise money to purchase a video- imaging camera. The camera would be used to locate people in a burning or smoke filled building. The raffle was successful, but additional capital was needed. Once again, the Lionesses came to the rescue. Their generous donation made the purchase of the high-tech camera possible.

Official department records from the mid 1990s carry a theme of recruitment, retention and the desperate need to obtain on-call help during the weekday, day-trme hours. Like a migraine, pounding at the temples of the department, it exacerbated each year. Retention efforts included year long activities for the members. Years earlier, bowling leagues and softball teams were established. Although major fund-raisers, the Spring Dance and Annual Picnic became social functions for the membership. Working side-by-side at the concession stand or beer stand strengthened the kinship of the volunteers. There was food, rides, music and even fireworks igniting against the black night sky. Each year an appreciation dinner was provided for the volunteers. Amidst streamers and balloons a buffet dinner was served, followed by a guest speaker, an awards presentation, a live band for the dance and games. Other activities provided by the department included golf outings and scotch-doubles bowling outings. Each year was ended with the fire fighters and their spouses singing holiday carols. The caroling concluded at Station No. 1 with chili and cheer. The tradition will probably live on forever.

Creating fun activities for the department was more than just for the sake of retention. From the first days of the department's existence, socializing, working and playing together, was the adhesive that bonded the members to each other. This tradition solidified as the decades progressed.

Although the Retention and Recruitment Committee was successful with bringing new fire fighters to the department, few were available during the daytime. Scheduling daytime EMTs was becoming more difficult. In October of 1997, Chief Kohl reiterated the problem to the company. By June of 1998, it became apparent that volunteers alone could noi staff the department. The decision was made to hire full time EMT/Fire-fighters for daytime, weekday hours.

President Block, Chief Kohl and the Board of Directors needed to investigate how other area departments set up their programs. Much time and research was needed to establish a wage and benefits package. Job qualifications and an interviewing process had to be decided. Target date for completion of all preliminary work was December, 1998. The fulltime workers would begin in January, 1999.

Kindred Spirits Unite

The present day Richfield Volunteer Fire Company is comprised of four fire departments all merged in recent years to create a strong, cohesive response team. These departments include: the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company, the Lake Five Volunteer Fire Company, the Friess Lake Volunteer Fire Company, and the Bark Lake Fire Department.

Lake Five Volunteer Fire Company

Although there was not an official fire department established in the 1960s, the Lake Five Advancement Association decided to raise money and purchase fire equipment as its first step in organizing a department. By the surruner of 1961, the Association had raised over $2000.00. Serving as a consult, the Menomonee Falls Fire Department Chief and a representative from the General Fire Equipment Company offered advise and demonstrated various pieces of equipment. The Association purchased a Gorman Rupp portable pump three 2 1/2" hoses, eight 1 1/2" hoses, two hard suction hoses, one floating strainer, two nozzles, one "Y" valve, one axe, one double action pump-type water extinguisher, one dry chemical fire extinguisher, one commando light, warning flares and a small siren.

With the purchase of these two dozen items, the Association now had the equipment needed to fight lake fires. Ed Rintelman Sr. became the first fire chief. He donated a trailer for the PumP and his garage to store it in. Thus, Rintelman/s garage became the first unofficial fire house. The trailer was retired in 1963 with the purchase of the first motorized fire vehicle in the area, a Ford station wagon.

Fire sirens for the community were located at Hensler's Service Station (currently Lake Five Service), one on top of a boathouse and one on Rintelman's garage, the fire house. Notification of fire calls was achieved through a "calllist". The first volunteer on the list, contacted the next name, continuing until the list was completed.

Over the next several years, multiple used fire vehicles were purchased by the Lake Five Advancement Association. The goal had always been to establish a Lake Five Volunteer Fire Department, Now, the dream could be fulfilled. The equipment and vehicles had been purchased. Dedicated volunteers were already running the day-to-day operations, even the chief was in place. Ln7966, the fire department officially was formed. On November 24,1969, the Lake Five Volunteer Fire Department was incorporated. With the initial financial assistance from the Association and multiple fund raisers they owned an impressive fleet for fire fighting:

• pumper from Richfield
• 1946 Ford 150gpm truck carrying 600 gals of water
• 1957 Ward LaFrance 750gpm truck carrying 500 gals of water
• Chevrolet tanker carrying 1000 gals of water
• Chevrolet panel truck serving as a rescue vehicle complete with a resuscitator, splints, spine board and first aid supplies.

It was time to house all this equipment in a new fire station. Fund-raisers and donations supplied the capital as volunteers supplied the labor. In the fall of 1969, the roof was raised on a 36' x 24' one story frame building.

The department was expanding. There were fifty-two dues paying fire-fighters with twenty-five active members. These active fire-fighters included six area women who had gone through fire-fighting courses. It took a commitment from the entire community to staff the department. The term "fireman" was being replaced with "fire-fighter" as a wave of females across the nation answered the call to service.

The times were changing. Supporting a small lake fire department was becoming more difficult. Insurance rates were steadily increasing. Updating equipment and modernizing fire vehicles was costly. The best solution was to combine efforts and resources with the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company. Late in 1974, under the leadership of Fire Chief Dale

Sutherland the merger was official.

Friess Lake Volunteer Fire Department

Like Lake Five, Friess Lake also had an Advancement Association in place to meet the needs of the lake community. The Association appointed a committee to observe the type of equipment and the functions of the newly formed Bark Lake Fire Department. On July 25, 1949 the Association purchased their first fire truck from the Murdale Sanatorium for $300.00. They negotiated with the Friess Lake Fish and Game Association to remodel a small building in the community park to house the new vehicle. The board of Directors appointed Harry Michelson to serve as the first chief.

Monday nights were designated as drill nights and the whole community was invited to participate. During the extreme cold nights those first winters, Assistant Chief Donald Kroening, would spend the night in the fire house to start the fire truck engine everv couple of hours to ensure it would start if needed.

There was no doubt that a fire house was needed. So the fund-raisers'began, one after another for a community determined to build a station with their bare hands if needed. There were picnics, box lunch socials, the fireman's ball, and harvest dances. The tor.r'n of Richfield provided some funds by drawing money out of the Utility District Fund that was charged to residents on the south and west side of Freiss l,ake. The Association was only short $1,500.00 to build the station; a loan was secured. The fire house was ultimately built by the hands of the volunteers. On Sunday, May 29, 1955 the Advancement Association hcld an open house for their new fire station. There was free beer, food, music and dancing to celebrate the house that Friess Lake volunteers built.

Manpower shortages during the weekdays also plagued the Freiss Lake department. Ten women were taught how to drive and use the pumper and tanker, how to refill the tanker and how to use all the equipment. These women were credited in extinguishing marsh, grass and kitchen fires before the Richfield fire-fighters arrived.

Chief Jim Kramer was instrumental in having the department sponsor the first official Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) class in the area in April of 7976. The chief also obtained bunker coats and boots from the Lannon Fire Department. He purchased twelve MSAs and top guard helmets to wear as protection when fighting fires.

Over the next decade, the department continued to modernize. Fire equipment was updated as newer vehicles were purchased. Community fund raisers supported much of the advancements. The department would often mutual aid with other local fire companies. They performed disaster drills together and attended joint training sessions. By 1987, every active member was issued his/her own turnout coat and helmet. Although the coats were once used by the Lannon Fire Department, they were a welcome sight for Friess Lake, replacing old black duck coats.

From 1967 to 1990, the department responded to 232 fire calls and 512 rescue calls. Approximately 120 men and over twenty women served as fire-fighters in the 1960s and 1970s.

On December 1,1989 the Friess Lake Volunteer Fire Denartment merged with the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company. The high cost of running the department, especially insurance coverage, and day-time staffing shortages took a toll. Richfield Station No. 4 currently houses the lake volunteers.

Bark Lake Fire Department

In 1944, six volunteers organized the first fire department at Bark Lake. Chief Ed Lierman Sr. and his men had only a hand-pulled suction pump to use on scene. The lake was high enough to be used for the water supply.

A fire station was built in 1952 at 790 Lakeview Road to house the department's first fire truck, formerly a milk truck. The next year, the department incorporaled and received state recognition. Under the leadership of Chief Elmer Pfister, the next twenty-rwo years were spent purchasing equipment and developing the department. An Edsel station wagon served as the first rescue vehicle. In 1967, the department built its own fire truck at a cost of $1,000.00. The department served mostly as a backup for the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company.

The commitment to serving neighbors grew. In 1975, the newly elected Chief Dick Becker supported expanding their emergency medical services. Bark Lake Fire Department became the first licensed ambulance service in the town of Richfield. This meant the rescue service had to provide twenty-four hour coverage seven days a week with licensed EMTs.

Within a year it became evident that staffing an ambulance service was going to take creative measures. The volunteers had day-time jobs and weren't available to take call until the evening. The women of Bark Lake stepped forward. Four women took the thirty week EMT training course. Two ladies became first responders. This commitment to the community included being on call four out of five days every week. Neighbors and relatives would babysit at a moments notice if there was a call.

The women were soon averaging nine ambulance runs each week. It was time to exchange the station wagon for an ambulance. In March of 1977, Chief Becker traveled to Burnsville, MN to purchase a used 1971 Ford ambulance. The volunteers assisted with the necessary painting and maintenance needed to bring the vehicle up to code. The EMS calls increased significantly. Richfield and Friess Lake supplied EMTs to assist with on call coverage. This partnership was beneficial for the EMTs who needed to be affiliated with an ambulance company to stay current with their licenses.

Within three years, the old Ford became obsolete. The town board granted the department a $10,000 loan to purchase a 1980 Ford ambulance complete with all the modern technology available. In a show of support the entire community pitched in. Local businesses held raffles and donated a percentage of the day's profits to the department. The Lionettes, Jaycees, Jaycettes, both shopping centers and area churches held fund raisers. The entire loan was paid back within six months.

A reorganization in 1986 divided authority between three positions; the president, the fire chief and the rescue chief. The first female chief, Rescue Chief Donna Bastian was elected to head EMS efforts.

May 1, 1990 marked the merger of Bark Lake Fire Department with the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company. As with the other lake departments, combining resources would benefit both departments as they struggled with scheduling shortages and astronomical insurance costs. Scraping the Bark Lake Ambulance logo off the side of the ambulance must have been bittersweet. An exciting new era was about to begin, yet a successful venture was ending.

The Bark Lake fire station was remodeled. It currently is called Richfield Station No. 3 and houses one of the Richfield ambulances.

Tribute to Robert Pickhard

It all started with a "glow in the sky" a passing motorist noticed early one Saturday morning in the winter of 1967. Forty fire fighters from Lake Five, Merton, North Lake and Richfield responded to a house ablaze in the surrounding town of Colgate. Fortv firemen battled the blaze, but only thirty-nine returned home. Richard Pickhaid bravely gave his life.

The fire started in the garage about 5:00 a.m. and spread through the upstairs bedrooms. A local resident was driving past the home when he disiovered the fire. He awakened the family. The homeowners, four children and a guest fled the house.

By the time fire fighters arrived at the scene, the garage was a total loss, according to Fire Chief Herman Wolf. It was a fight against time to save the rest of the house.

Among the volunteers was Robert Pickhard, a 43-year-old electrical contractor and President of the Richfield Businessmen's Association. Pickhard had been battling the fire in the upper level. Chief Wolf stated that Pickhard had been noticed "missing". Four men searched for him through the heat and intensity of the fire. Pickhard was found in the attic of the house. He had suffocated after apparently being knocked unconscious from falling debris.

The Richfield Volunteer Fire Company memorial monument, which features the firefighters original bell, bore silent tribute to a departed comrade on the weekend following the tragedy. The flag flew at half-mast signifying that a deeply appreciative community was mourning the loss of a brave man.

Pickhard is the only Richfield Volunteer Fire Company fire fighter to date to lose his life while on duty. His courage is forever acknowledged.