IAFF Local 3059 Thompsonville and Hazardville Professional Firefighters Union Participates in Black History Month and Honors Chief Raymond

In 1854, Chief Raymond, an African American, was appointed to the city department. In 1862, he left to join the Federal Navy and fight in the Civil War. Nine years later, in 1871, he was appointed the first black chief engineer (chief) in the United States. He assumed command of an integrated city department featuring 75 drivers, engineers, telegraph operators and firefighters.

By the end of his tenure in 1879, Chief Raymond tripled the budget, added two new engine companies and built three new stations. He went on to become a member of the Executive Board of the International Association of Fire Engineers (now the International Association of Fire Chiefs) and was a charter member of the Logan Post Grand Army of the Republic Veterans in Boston.

The IAFF Local 3059 Thompsonville and Hazardville Professional Firefighters Union is proud of the important role Chief Raymond played. Representatives of the Union have visited schools in Thompsonville, donating the book "Hold the Flag High," about the Massachusetts fifty-fourth regiment. During their visits, they also talked with 5th graders about diversity in the fire service and everyday life.