Looking for 1940's "School Boys" |
By NSFC History | |
September 18, 2024 | |
We are looking for past members, particularly those students who joined during WWII. During the war, with membership number dropping due to men being overseas to fight, the Newtown Square Fire Company voted to let Young Men aged 14 years and older join the Fire Company. This was a widespread practice for fire companies during that time. the common name for them was the "School Boys." These people would be in their mid-90’s by now, so if they are no longer with us, but a family member is, please reach out. William Pritchard, from Bishop Hollow Rd joined in 1943 at the age of 14. Was a member until 1947. Joseph R Bachlter Jr, from 3rd Ave joined in 1943 at the age of 14. Was a member until 1950. George Peel, no address, joined at age 15 and was a member after returning from the service, around 1948. Howard J Rainey from Media [line] Road joined at the age of 16 and was a member until he went into the service, and returned and was a member again? Henry du Pont joined at the age of 17 and was a member for a brief time before heading into the service and returned after his time in the service. We know what Henry did after the war and his time at Newtown Square Fire Company, moving to Delaware, starting SCI TEK, Inc., a computer serving company. He also had extensive philanthropic endeavors in the State of Delaware, partially around abused mothers, and their children. But what happened to the rest of the “School Boy” members? If you have any information, or know of a person we have missed, please let know! |
|