The engine house built in 1891 on Grafton Street, near Blowers Street, was constructed to accommodate the expanding hook and ladder companies in Halifax’s South End. It housed four horses used to pull No. 1 Truck and No. 1 Sleigh in winter, allowing the Union Axe Company to transport its extensive ladder inventory, including sizes ranging from 26 feet to a 50-foot Bangor-style ladder. This facility served as the southern division for the Union Axe Company, which had approximately 40 members split between the Gerrish Street station in the North End and the new Grafton Street station in the South.
Development & Approval Process:
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January 27, 1890: The Board of City Works reviewed the need for better accommodations for the Union Axe Company and recommended purchasing land and constructing a suitable building, with a total budget not exceeding $5,000.
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January 29, 1890: City Council approved the recommendation and instructed the Recorder to draft an act allowing the city to borrow the necessary funds.
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October 27, 1890: A loan of $5,000 was secured from J. C. Mackintosh at an interest rate of 4% per annum.
Site Selection:
Several sites were proposed, including:
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John K. Bent (Brunswick Street) - $1,530
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Peter Doyle (Old Reform Club) - $3,400
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B. G. Gray (Grafton Street) - $1,200
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C. W. McGinn (Grafton Street) - $1,000
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A. Lamphier (Present site) - $3,000
After inspections, the committee recommended purchasing the 40 x 60-foot lot from C. W. McGinn for $1,000.
Legacy:
The fire station remained an integral part of firefighting operations in Halifax’s South End for years. The building still stands today and is currently occupied by Bearley's House of Blues.
This expansion significantly improved the city's fire service infrastructure, providing dedicated space for ladder operations and horse-drawn equipment, which played a vital role in fire response efforts in the late 19th century.