When Natick was Crowned Home of Champions, and Firefighting was an Olympic Sport

One of the original Champions! "Pooch" Donovan, Harvard Trainder. (Undated, NHS Collections)

Even though the summer Olympics have ended, we are still discussing sports at the Natick Historical Society. Inspired, some of us have picked up our old swim caps and goggles or hit the track running!

Many of you know Natick’s nickname, “Home of Champions,” but you may not know its origin story. Although Natick is home to many celebrated athletes, the original moniker dates back to September 3, 1891, specifically to a Hook and Ladder Competition at the New England Fair in Worcester. Hearty local crews from Natick, Westborough, Leominster, and Spencer squared off for what they called “The World’s Hook and Ladder Championship.” The event was based on firefighting skills that were important at that time. Team members had to run 220 yards and get their heavy ladder wagon rolling fast enough to put a man at the top of a 28-foot platform! Sadly, Spencer dropped their ladder and was disqualified immediately. Follow this link to read the rest of the article from the Natick Report.