On September 13, 2024, I had the opportunity to visit the new Fire Department and meet with Assistant Chief Brian Wenning. We discussed the Greensburg Fire Department’s 150th Anniversary which was August 20, 2024. Speaking with Brian at the new station it was apparent that he has enjoyed his research for his upcoming book that began in November 2023 and will include the history of the Greensburg Fire Department including many pictures and stories.
The city purchased a hook and ladder and 50 rubber buckets on August 17, 1871. Then on October 19, 1871, the city had residents place barrels at the downspouts of their homes.
The first Fire Department in Greensburg was established in 1874. On August 26 of that year, Arthur Hutchinson became the city’s first Fire Chief. That same year, the department purchased a state-of-the-art steam engine for $6,000 to combat fires. The steam engine model was Latta #3. It was named the Bart Wilson.
At the time, Greensburg did not have a city hall, so the fire department held its monthly meetings in various stores and businesses around the town square. However, the department quickly faced a major challenge—they had a fire truck but no place to store it. This prompted the City Council to begin searching for land to build the city’s first firehouse. After considering five potential locations, the council purchased a lot on South Broadway, owned by Augustus Lathrop, for $1,350 in 1874. They spent an additional $3,350 to construct the building, which would serve as the fire station. The department was named the Bart Wilson Fire Company #1 in honor of the prominent Democratic Chairman who played a key role in bringing the fire department to life.
By 1884, the need for more space became apparent, and the City Council purchased the adjacent lot to the south, owned by Augustus Lathrop’s son, Ezra Lathrop, for $700. An addition to the firehouse was constructed for $1,754, ensuring that the department could accommodate its growing needs. The firehouse remained the city’s primary fire station until 1975. The original site is now home to the Cobia Solar office, while the additional lot is presently occupied by the Decatur County Republican Office.
In 1975, the Fire Department relocated to 528 N. Ireland Street. This station would later be named Larry D. Filler Station 1 in honor of Firefighter Larry D. Filler, who tragically passed away on August 5, 1985, after suffering a medical emergency while on duty in the rear parking lot. For nearly 50 years, this station served as the heart of the Fire Department, housing countless moments of camaraderie, laughter, and even tears. If the walls of this building could talk, they would tell stories of dedication, sacrifice, and the strong bonds forged between the firefighters who called it home until 2024.
In 2008 with the addition of Honda Manufacturing coming into Greensburg. The Greensburg Fire Department expanded by opening a satellite Fire House located at Honda Manufacturing, which employs 1 Firefighter per shift 365 days per year.
In 2016, the Greensburg Fire Department expanded with the opening of a new station at 201 S. Broadway. On August 19, 2017, it was officially named Norman D. Stuart Station 2 in memory of Firefighter Norman D. Stuart, who tragically lost his life on January 18, 1988. Norman was responding to a vehicle fire in Engine 8 with Chief Clark in the officer’s seat when they were involved in a vehicle accident that led to his passing.
The Fire Department officially moved on September 7, 2024, to their new location located on Barachel Lane. This is approximately a 20,000 sq ft facility with state-of-the-art facilities. The Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will occur on 9/14/24. During the move the Greensburg Fire Department continued honoring Larry D. Filler by continuing with the name Larry D. Filler Station 1 for the new facility. More information on the new facility will be highlighted after the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.
As I toured the newly built station and spoke with Assistant Chief Brian Wenning, it became clear that being a firefighter is far more than just a job—it’s a way of life. Seeing Chief Stoermer hard at work this morning only reinforced my confidence that the citizens of Greensburg are in capable hands.
Brian shared so much about the department’s history during our conversation, and it’s obvious he has even more stories to tell. His passion for preserving the department’s legacy has culminated in an upcoming book, set to be released in November 2024, which will cover the department’s rich history, complete with photos and personal anecdotes. All proceeds from the book will go back to the Greensburg Fire Department to cover publishing costs. Brian joked, our conversation today was just a “teaser” for what the book has to offer—and I can’t wait to dive into it once it’s published.
During my visit, I also learned that the Greensburg Fire Department has had five service dogs throughout its history, each one a valued part of the team.
One of the highlights of my tour was discovering a hidden gem in the truck bays—a 1929 Dodge fire truck that is now owned by Brian Wenning. This historic vehicle has spent its entire life in Decatur County, having been previously owned by the American Legion and the Decatur County Historical Society. Below are some images of the truck, both from its early days in action and a recent photo taken on September 13, 2024.
Finally, we remember and honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty: Norman D. Stuart, Larry D. Filler, and Smokey. Their sacrifices are forever etched into the history of the Greensburg Fire Department.
Information for this article was gathered from my meeting with Brian Wenning and the Greensburg Fire Department website.
