William W. Spencer, December 27th, 1953
On Sunday, December 27, 1953 at 2:30 PM, Engine 19 (at that time located on the south side of Chelten east of Germantown Avenue), responded to a grass fire located in the Blue Bell Picnic Area, south side of Walnut Lane directly opposite Kingsley Street.
During this fire, Captain William Spencer of Engine 19 collapsed. He was treated by Rescue Squad 4, taken to Roxborough Memorial Hospital, and pronounced dead on arrival.
It may be interesting to note that Captain Spencer’s father had been a Hoseman in Engine 19 from October 2, 1903, until he was transferred to Truck 17 on March 16, 1922. He died 3 years later on January 6, 1926, 3 years before his son joined the fire department.
William W. Spencer, December 27th, 1953
On Sunday, December 27, 1953 at 2:30 PM, Engine 19 (at that time located on the south side of Chelten east of Germantown Avenue), responded to a grass fire located in the Blue Bell Picnic Area, south side of Walnut Lane directly opposite Kingsley Street.
During this fire, Captain William Spencer of Engine 19 collapsed. He was treated by Rescue Squad 4, taken to Roxborough Memorial Hospital, and pronounced dead on arrival.
It may be interesting to note that Captain Spencer’s father had been a Hoseman in Engine 19 from October 2, 1903, until he was transferred to Truck 17 on March 16, 1922. He died 3 years later on January 6, 1926, 3 years before his son joined the fire department.
Career History
Appointed Hoseman Engine 59 - June 1, 1929
Promoted Lieutenant Engine 59 - October 22, 1946
Transferred Lieutenant Engine 51 - March 23, 1947
Transferred Lieutenant Engine 19 - August 16, 1952
Promoted Captain Engine 19 - January 1, 1953