Cumberland's First Fire Chief
Before there was a Fire Chief position assigned in the town, fire protection was managed by a Fire Warden, the first one being Merle Willis in 1913.
The first official Fire Chief was Lester B. Bragg, a firefighter at the India Street Station in Portland, elected by the Selectmen of Cumberland in 1914-1915. He served in that capacity until his untimely death in 1921 at age 62. Although the position was established, it was a title only; there was very little equipment, and no department, budget, or organization of manpower as such.
In 1928, a group of 18 men formed a volunteer fire company, with by-laws and officers established. Gilbert Strout was elected Fire Chief.
Cumberland's First Fire Chief
