PhilaStories

Clarence Brogden - Desegregation in the Philadelphia Fire Department Begins in 1949

Clarence Brogden, 86 years old, was born and raised at 21st & Montgomery Sts. in North Philadelphia. His mother was born on an Indian reservation in South Carolina. I spoke with Clarence at the Club Valiants meeting hall in Mount Airy. Shortly after serving in the armed forces during WWII Clarence joined the Philadelphia Fire Department in 1946. He was assigned to Engine 11. In this story he tells us that Engine 11 fireman were starting to be transferred to formerly all white firehouses.

From 1919 - 1952 Engine 11 and Fireboat 1 were manned by African-American fireman only. Clarence is one of five surviving retirees who worked at Engine 11 before the Philadelphia Fire Department was desegregated in 1952.

Here are a few more Engine 11 photos.

Google Maps: Engine 11

Clarence Brogden: Joins The Philadelphia Fire Department in 1946

Clarence Brogden, 86 years old, was born and raised at 21st & Montgomery Sts. in North Philadelphia. I spoke with Clarence at the Club Valiants meeting hall in Mount Airy. Shortly after serving in the armed forces during WWII Clarence joined the Philadelphia Fire Department in 1946. He was assigned to Engine 11. In this story he talks about his early days in the fire department.

From 1919 - 1952 Engine 11 and Fireboat 1 were manned by African-American fireman only. Clarence is one of five surviving retirees who worked at Engine 11 before the Philadelphia Fire Department was desegregated in 1952.

Here are a few more Engine 11 photos.

Google Maps: Engine 11