Start of Boylston St. to the right going west; lower Washington St. toward Boston to the left. The structures to the left of the fire station were collectively known as “White’s Block”. To the right is the shop of Royal Woodward, Blacksmith.

In the early 1870s the town was progressing to an organized fire-fighting system after years of more haphazard efforts. It created a Fire Department Board of Engineers. It funded this brick building, constructed at significant cost, that was completed in January 1872. In these early years fire houses were designated according to the piece of equipment they hosted. On the left is the Good Intent Hose Company which was organized in 1865 and disbanded May 11, 1875. On the right is the Thomas Parsons Steam Fire Engine (the steam wagon is pictured in front).

Courtesy, Brookline Public Library. From Photographs of Brookline: taken about 1876 / Richard Hills. Call No.: BROOKLINE/Special (CAGE B.R. 974 H6).