Between 1864 and 1947 the City of Hartford utilized a board of fire commissioners to run its fire department. These commissioners provided direction to the Fire Chief who transformed the policies of the commissioners into direct action. The most well-known of all the commissioners was Horace B. Clark.
Commissioner Clark had more than just an interest in the H.F.D.; he was passionate about it, and he had all of the modern day resources necessary to help serve his passion. It must have helped greatly that when he decided to marry in 1898, his bride was worth 3 million dollars.
With his position and wealth, Commissioner Clark was able to have a fast time tape installed in his home on Garden Street in Hartford. A fast time tape was a portion of the alarm system usually found only in firehouses. Therefore, whenever the Hartford Fire Department was called to a fire, Commissioner Clark was notified. And when he responded, he brought his camera. Today Commissioner Clark’s photograph collection, consisting of over 3000 photographs and negatives is at The Connecticut Historical Society where it provides a comprehensive photographic history of the City of Hartford and its fire department.
Commissioner Clark did much more than merely take photos. He helped establish the Training Division, took the lead in motorizing the department and helped hire Hartford’s first African American Firefighter, William Henry Jacklyn, who served from 1898 until 1914. (See photo) http://www.hartford.gov/fire/history/williamhjacklyn.htm
Even after Commissioner Clark retired, he maintained his love for the fire service. He moved to Granby, where he purchased land and founded the Lost Acres Fire Department. The name commemorates that fact that although he paid for 50 acres of land, a survey showed that he had only acquired 48 acres. The Lost Acres Fire Department continues to serve the people of Granby to this day, a testament to Horace B. Clark and his love of the fire service.
