Fireboats of Portland, Oregon facts for kids
Fireboats are special boats used by the Portland Fire Bureau in Portland, Oregon. Their main job is to fight fires that happen on or near the water, like on ships, docks, or buildings close to the river. They also help with other emergencies on the water.
The Portland Fire Bureau has been in charge of these important boats for a long time. In 1973, the job of patrolling the harbor was moved from the Police Bureau to the Fire Bureau. This meant the Fire Bureau became responsible for keeping the waterways safe. At that time, two smaller boats, the Karl Prehn and the L.V. Jenkins, joined the fleet. These boats were ready for both fighting fires and helping with police duties on the water. In the 1970s, Portland had its largest fleet of fireboats, with seven vessels.
Contents
Early Fireboats: Protecting Portland's Waterfront
Portland's first fireboats played a big role in keeping the city safe from fires along its rivers. These powerful boats were designed to pump huge amounts of water onto fires.
The First George H. Williams
The very first fireboat in Portland was named the George H. Williams. It was launched in 1904. This boat was named after the mayor of Portland at that time. It served the city for many years, helping to put out fires until it was retired in 1928.
The David Campbell Boats
Portland has had two fireboats named David Campbell. The first one was launched in 1912 and served until 1927. It was named after a former fire chief.
The second David Campbell was launched in 1928. This boat was built to be very similar to two other fireboats, the Mike Laudenklos and the Karl Gunster. In 1976, this second David Campbell boat was rebuilt to make it even better and more modern for its important work.
Modern Fireboats: Fast and Ready
Over the years, fireboats have become faster and more advanced. Newer designs help them respond quickly to emergencies.
The Virgil Spencer
The Virgil Spencer was a smaller and much faster fireboat launched in 1972. It used special waterjets to move, which made it very quick. Sadly, it sank during its first official trip, which was a bit embarrassing! But it was repaired and served the city for many years after that.
The George Williams (Second Boat)
Another fireboat named George Williams also joined the fleet. This shows how important the name of Portland's first fireboat was to the city's history.
The Eldon Trinity: A High-Speed Responder
The Eldon Trinity is a modern, high-speed fireboat that was ordered in 2010. This boat was needed after a serious event showed how important it was to have very fast response times on the water. Its speed helps the Fire Bureau get to emergencies quickly.
Harbor Patrol and Rescue Boats
Besides fighting fires, Portland's fireboats also help with other important tasks on the water.
Karl Prehn and L.V. Jenkins
The Karl Prehn and L.V. Jenkins were added to the fleet in 1973. This was when the Fire Bureau took over harbor patrol duties from the Police Bureau. These boats were used for both firefighting and general police work on the water. The Karl Prehn served until 1984, when it was sold to Lewiston, Idaho.
Rescue Boat 17
The Rescue Boat 17 is another important vessel. It is based on the Columbia River, near a popular area called Jantzen Beach. This boat is ready to help with rescues and other emergencies in that busy part of the river.
