Page 3 - August 2016

FROM THE MASTER
This August issue of the Salamander comes at a time of some significance in the cementing of the relationship of the Worshipful Company of Firefighters with
the City of London. This September marks the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London in 1666, which devastated almost two thirds of the City and the impact on the many livery companies, churches and City of London institutions at that time was considerable. It can be argued that the event was the prime instigation of, firstly, the Fire Insurance industry and, secondly, the formation of more formal and improved fire fighting methods, leading eventually to the creation of the London Fire Brigade, this year celebrating its 150th anniversary.
Although in itself a young 28 year organisation by City standards, the Worshipful Company of Firefighters has, over the past few years, proved itself as a valuable contributor to the continuing resilience of the City. Its promotion of fire safety issues via its annual City fire lecture, communication through its annual City fire dinner and, in espousing relationships with the UK wide fire industry via its annual Fire Industry Chariry Ball, which helps fund its charitable activities such as the encouragement of the fire cadet movement within the London boroughs are snapshots of some of the ways our Company now gets positively involved within the City.
Although 350 years ago seems a long time ago, most of us can still relate to the impact such a City fire would have had on the ordinary lives of people living in the city. There are a large number of events happening across the City to commemorate the 350th anniversary from a special exhibition at the London Museum, displays and talks at the Guildhall Art Gallery
COMPANY BUSINESS
and Library, City of London Heritage Gallery and Library, as well as special services of commemoration in St. Paul’s and St.Mary-at- Hill. On the anniversary of the fire itself (2-4th September), you can climb the Monument for free, there will be a light display event beamed onto the dome of St. Paul’s church and a large scale representation of the 17th century London skyline will be floated on the River Thames. The City of London has also provided a self- guided walking tour of the key parts of the City affected by the fire - the WCoFF have been involved in this project, said to be one of the most popular guides the City has published.
To commemorate the event, the WCoFF has been very active in its own right as well. Not only has this year’s Fire lecture been focussed on the 1666 fire, but the Company has set about publishing its own forensic analysis, undertaken by Dr Peter Mansi, a livery member of the Company, wrapped up in a commemorative book which also provides good information on earlier London fires, the impact of the fire on churches, livery halls and the formation of the insurance industry - it is definitely a book you should buy. There are also prints to purchase of the famous Holler view of the City in 1666, a special plate depicting one of the amazing paintings of the fire and a set of commemorative stamps, signed by your Master and dated on the anniversary - a real investment opportunity for you.
I hope you enjoy this issue of news about our Company and the stories presented on the Great Fire of London. Please pick up a leaflet on the Great Fire 350 (visitlondon. com/greatfire350) or get one on the Great Fire of London trail - our future lies in better appreciation of our past and our commitment to the present. Your involvement in the life of the Company is important.
Bruce Hoad Master.
Worshipful Company of Firefighters
Follow us on twitter @LondonFire1666
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