The Triesen Volunteer Fire Department celebrated its 125th anniversary on Saturday with an impressive exhibition and the presentation of a new anniversary book. The Gasometer not only looked back on the eventful history, but also set an example for the future.
The roots of the fire department go back to 1901. After decades of devastating fires, especially in the “Winkel” area between Gabont and Storfstrasse, the people of Tries decided to take action. Disasters such as the fire of March 3, 1859, in which five buildings were destroyed and 44 people were left homeless, had left their mark. After the tragedy of 1868, it became clear that organized firefighting was essential. Head Xaver Bargetzi received the order to found the company – the first captain was the plumber August Sprenger.
Today, 125 years later, Commander Florian Kindle is at the head of 63 fellow firefighters. Having been in the service himself for two decades, he emphasized one value above all at the opening: “One thing has always stayed with me – the word togetherness.”
More than a classic exhibition
The exhibition in the Gasometer surprises with its modern and experience-oriented approach. A multi-layered project was created under the title “Fire Water” that combines technology, history and human aspects. In addition to Florian Kindle, his deputy André Ogg as well as Fredy Kindle and Fabian Bürzle are responsible for this – supported by numerous helpers.
In addition to historical equipment and impressive insights into operations, the focus is primarily on people: 63 portraits show those who carry the fire brigade today. Concepts such as commitment, camaraderie and cohesion are made tangible.
Gasometer manager Petra Büchel was impressed: “I have been able to experience what the fire department is here in the last few weeks and days: community, cohesion and commitment – and the ability to put on such an exhibition.”
A book as a bridge between generations
The new anniversary book was presented parallel to the exhibition. Author Hans-Rainer Miller and his editorial team have documented the past 25 years – as a supplement to the existing chronicle and as a legacy for future generations.
The work highlights key developments such as the construction of the new fire depot, the purchase of modern vehicles such as the tank fire engine in 2006 and the turntable ladder in 2018, as well as the founding of the youth fire department. Formative events such as major fires in Gapont, at the Garnetschhof and at the Schurti sawmill also find their place.
The book also takes a look back at the beginnings: from simple hand sprayers and hose carts to historical regulations such as the fire extinguishing regulations of 1790, which strictly prohibited open lights in stables.
