What is a "Fire Buff"?

Frank the Fireman
By Frank C. Schaper,
Deputy Fire Chief -
St. Louis Fire Department.
March 27, 1991

Do you know what a "Fire Buff" is?

A Fire Buff is a person who has a love for the fire department. Fire buffs love fire engines, fire houses and firefighters. They love to go to fires and watch the action. They buy scanners (special radios that pick up fire calls) so as not to miss any fires. They collect antique fire nozzles, alarm boxes, toys, helmets and other fire memorabilia. They buy books on fire departments and fire apparatus. They study fire department history. These guys and gals are really into fire departments. It is great having a group of people so interested in my job - a job I truly love. Whenever I am around the Fire buffs, I feel special. Not every occupation is blessed with this type of citizen support. And support they do give. Most buffs belong to clubs. These are an organized bunch. Clubs such as the Phoenix Society, Box 52 Association, Boston Sparks, The Bell and Siren Club, Gong Club and the Box 8 Club (my personal favorite) hold club meetings and go to conventions. They also have service projects like operating refreshment canteens at large fires and disasters. You haven't lived until you fought a large multi-alarm fire and then go on break to the canteen for coffee, a bowl of chili, and donuts. It's a special kind of heartburn - but much appreciated on a cold night.

The club in St. Louis is called the Box 8 Club, This club was founded in 1941 and has been both a social organization and a service group. The club serves the metropolitan area fire departments by providing historical information, photographs, and manpower at fire department events. Along with other volunteer club members operate a daily canteen service. The Vehicles are supplied by the Salvation Army. Terry Buchheit (resident "Tin Grin" maker) says the club has about 17 active members. Two I always see are Carl Velders (truck driver) and his bride AnnaMae, Man, can she serve a good hotdog!

The club derives its name from the old street corner fire alarm boxes in the old days, when assistance at a fire was needed, the number eight was tapped out using a telegraphers key from inside the fire alarm box. The name is appropriate for our club because they certainly do assist the fire departments area wide. This year the club is celebrating it's 50th anniversary. Happy Anniversary, Box 8 Club, and a tip of the old fire hat to all your members.