AIMS OF THE ASSOCIATION
It must be clearly understood that any volunteer organization is under a handicap, not only in the matter of ways and means, but also in its demands on the time and action of its members. The matter of discipline, essential for perfection, depends on the willing spirit of the members, and it cannot be enforced for the reason that its members are not under such deep obligation as to neglect private business expect for one cause-fire. It is without recognition and at a personal expense. This is especially true in this vicinity, where many are working to establish homes of their own and where, fortunately, the call to fires are few and far between. Unfortunately, one fire needs to be extinguished just as quickly as many fires of frequent occurrence. But long periods of inactivity must certainly affect the efficiency and enthusiasm of the men. This is borne out by the periods of inertia and activity shown by our history.
It is the aim of the organization to overcome this fluctuating enthusiasm by realizing that its members cannot be expected to maintain a constant high order of discipline such as exists in a municipal company. It is the object of the officers to exact all that can be cheerfully given and to increase and maintain the necessary enthusiasm among the members by providing social affairs whereby the town can come in contact with the members and also to obtain gymnastic apparatus so as to give the men an object in spending an evening at the fire-house, whereby they are unconsciously trained for their work.
What the company needs most of all is the confidence of the people. To err is human, and in any body of men there are always some who fail to please. It should be realized that the acts of the individual should not be permanently held against an organization to which he belongs, and also that it is very easy to injure when no injury is really intended.
The necessity of a fire company is absolute. Though its main object is to fight fires, entertainments, drills and other forms of amusement are a necessity in order to provide funds and interest in the organization. Efficiency is our aim, and you, friends, must not only be our friends, but show us that you have confidence in us. We want to expand our usefulness and give you protection against fire, better ourselves and our apparatus, improve out home and our standing. "Let's pull together!"
