Operations & Training

Fire Chief's Memorial Bandshell in Norristown, PA, Sustains Heavy Damage

Aug. 29, 2024

Norristown firefighters found a trash can on fire hours before they responded to the century-old bandshell.

The Fire Chief's Memorial Bandshell at Elmwood Park in Norristown was damaged by fire early Wednesday morning.

The structure was dedicated more than 100 years ago to remember the hundreds of firefighters who have served the community.

Arson is suspected, Phil 17 reported adding that firefighters found a trash can on fire near the bandshell hours earlier.

“For over 100 years this structure stood to remember the hundreds of firefighters that have served our community. The building may be gone, but we will never forget,” a spokesperson for Norristown Fire Department wrote.

Firefighters removed the plaques on the bandshell that honors those who served in the fire department. It's unknown at this time if the rest of the structure can be saved, according to nbc10

The summer concert will go on as planned Sunday.

"Devastating. Everybody's asking what was the cause. Everyone in this community has really come together in the last six hours..." said Joe Staiber, who organizes the summer concert series.

About the Author

Susan Nicol | News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.