May 6, 2017
For
Information, contact Columbia Fire Protection District (209)532-3772
visitcolumbiacalifornia.com
Based on last year:
Friday Hospitality Night 6 p.m. Location: Columbia Fire House 11328 Jackson St. Food, Live Music and Silent Auction
Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Location: Lower Parking Lot
Promenade registration 9 a.m.
Promenade 10 a.m.
Children's Events 11 a.m.
Bucket brigade 12 NOON
Hand Pumpers 1 p.m.
Hose Cart race 2 p.m.
Motorized Hose Wagon Competition 3 p.m.
Motorized Pumpers competition 4 p.m.
Firefighter Shootout 5 p.m.
Tri-Tip Dinner 6 p.m.
A "Firefighter's Muster" is described as a firefighter's Antique Olympics, in which firefighting equipment and techniques are used in competition for trophies and Championships. "Muster", as defined in the dictionary, means "Gathering" or to "bring together." These gatherings have been taking place since the 1800's when New England fire departments mustered to compete and show off their various skills and ornate fire apparatus.
It was an honor and point of pride to have the swiftest horses, the quickest firefighters and hose carts, and the strongest pumpers. Firefighter's musters in California probably date back to the Gold Rush days of the 49ers when the fire companies of the diggin's would gather to have something to do during holiday celebrations and when things were dull at the mines.
In the 1960's, the firefighter's muster found new life at the historic Mother Load mining camp at Columbia and the event has been growing ever since. In 1974, Captain Ron Rice of the Benicia Volunteer Fire Department called a meeting of interested fire departments to form the California Fireman's Muster Association, which sets rules and regulations for sanctioned musters and announces a State champion at the end of each muster season.
Columbia Fire Department along
with Engine Company #1 holds the first Fire Muster of the year. This is a free
event and very family and community oriented. The Muster starts with a parade
through the historical Main St. Columbia with fun competitive events to fallow.
During the day participants and spectators may purchase a smoked trip tip
sandwiches from Columbia Fire to raise funds for purchase of life safety
equipment. Or stick around till the evening and enjoy a trip tip dinner prepared
by Columbia Fire Volunteers.