Our History

The Central Fire Station, erected in 1911, stands as a testament to Brandon's architectural heritage, designed by the esteemed architect W. A. Elliott. Situated on the grounds of the city's inaugural fire hall, established in 1882, the station's construction was overseen by local builder A. E. Bullock, with an estimated cost ranging from $37,000 to $40,000. Notably, the station's design was enhanced by the suggestion of a tower from Elliott's own son, Egbert, adding a distinctive flair to the original sketches.

Characterized by a blend of Chateauesque and Italianate styles, the Central Fire Station boasts a striking facade, with red brick walls, a steeply pitched roof adorned with protruding dormers, and wrought iron balconies nestled beneath the brackets of its bell tower. Notably, the primary structure, rising 22 storeys, showcases innovative semi-fireproof construction, featuring 13-inch-thick walls atop sturdy concrete floors, with a basement anchoring its foundation. This pioneering use of concrete stands as a hallmark of early architectural ingenuity.

Dominating the skyline once held the "Coronation Bell," a majestic symbol of civic pride, cast in West Troy, New York, in honor of King George's coronation. Weighing a formidable 4,400 pounds, with a base spanning 62 inches and tuned to the key of "C," its resonance echoed through the city for decades. However, in 1971, recognizing the strain on the tower, the bell was carefully removed and now resides in storage, preserving its legacy while ensuring the structural integrity of the tower.

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