Introduction
In 1965, in the Village of Maurice, Louisiana, the population was a modest 500, nestled within an ambiance of political division. This small but spirited community, divided by two opposing political groups, was symbolized by their respective gathering spots: City Bar and Comeaux’s Bar. Each bar was more than just a place for a drink; they were centers of political allegiance, one representing the ‘machine’ party and the other the ‘Home Rule’ party. However, a unifying force emerged in this divided landscape – the Maurice Volunteer Fire Department (MVFD), an institution that would become a symbol of community spirit and resilience.
Early Challenges
The need for a local fire department became painfully clear after two tragic fires in 1965. The first, at the home of Mr. Willie Broussard, was a devastating loss sparked by a child playing with matches. A second fire soon followed, claiming the house of Mr. Widley Hebert due to a water heater malfunction. These incidents highlighted a glaring vulnerability: the nearest fire departments were 9 and 10 miles away in Youngsville and Abbeville, respectively. It was clear that Maurice needed a local fire protection service.
The Founding Fathers
The MVFD’s origin story is one of community action and visionary leadership. Recognizing the urgent need, four residents, Wallace Broussard, Golden Landry, Fidney Trahan, and Lester Gauthier, stepped forward. They approached the Village council, only to find that financial constraints barred establishing a fire department. Undeterred, they took matters into their own hands, distributing flyers and organizing a meeting at the Maurice High School Gym on February 2, 1967, to discuss the formation of a volunteer fire service. This meeting, attended by 21 community members, marked the birth of the MVFD.
The original twenty-one attendees: Lester Gauthier, Homer Broussard, Cecil Picard, Paul Picard, Will Broussard, Widley “Soop” Hebert, Pressley Broussard Sr., Wallace Broussard, Jill Picard, Walter Broussard, Fidney Trahan, Eldridge “Son” Catalon, Nason Trahan, A. Bruce Mouton, Golden Landry, Carroll Comeaux, H. Fred Broussard, Alvin Picard, Joseph E. Catalon, Dallas Landry and Paul Ray Landry.
Early Days and Growth
The fire department’s infancy was marked by enthusiasm tempered with challenges. Without a fire truck, early members, including the passionate Carroll Comeaux, who would later become the first Fire Chief, had to rely on community support and inventive solutions. Fundraising efforts were initiated, ranging from door-to-door campaigns to hosting community events, laying the foundation for the department’s future.
Leadership and Structure
From the outset, Carroll Comeaux, as the first president, infused the department with a sense of purpose and a clear directive to steer clear of local politics. This was embodied in a gentleman’s agreement, barring elected officials from serving as fire department officers, a policy that remained until 1984. The various committees formed, including constitutional, finance, and nominating committees, further structured the burgeoning department.
The original officers elected on February 20, 1967, were President – Carroll Comeaux, First Vice President – Paul Ray Landry, Second Vice President – Wallace Broussard, Secretary – Golden Landry, Treasurer – Claude Broussard, Board Member – A. Bruce Mouton, and Board Member – Johnny Picard.
Later, on August 14, 1967, the fire fighting officers were elected Fire Chief H. Fred Broussard, First Assistant Chief – Will Broussard, Second Assistant Chief – Nason Trahan, First Captain – Sammy Picard, Second Captain – Perry Stelly, and Traffic Marshall – Ray Broussard.
Community Integration and Support
The MVFD’s relationship with the community was symbiotic. The department’s early fundraising strategies were a testament to this. The first significant community drive yielded over $500, with the first donation of $1 from Lester J. Gauthier, a symbol of community trust and support still honored within the fire station.
Community Donations
The MVFD has utilized several fundraising methods in addition to going house to house. On October 15, 1967, we held our first barbeque and sold over 1600 dinners at a cost of $1.50 per plate. Since then, we have had numerous barbeques, with the largest one serving over 3600 plates. These barbeques were held in conjunction with a trail ride that attracted over 2000 registered riders, making it the largest trail ride in Louisiana. We have also raised funds by selling jambalaya, holding auctions, selling address signs, staging dances, and hosting a successful annual mail-out campaign that has raised over $268,000 since its inception in 1987. The Maurice community has been incredibly supportive in the past, even purchasing fire extinguishers and participating in two skeet shoots.
Training and Development
Recognizing the importance of skill and knowledge, early members, even without a fire truck, completed an LSU Fireman Training class in May 1967. This commitment to training became a cornerstone of the department, with ongoing education and the development of facilities such as a smoke maze for training purposes.
Responding to the Community’s Needs
The MVFD’s scope of service rapidly expanded. Initially focused on structure fires and vehicle accidents, the department’s role grew to encompass various emergency responses, including hazardous material incidents and medical emergencies. The department responded to 18 alarms in its first year, which would grow significantly in the following years.
Technological Advances and Operational Strategies
Innovation was key to the MVFD’s operations. The department’s unique call-out system using strategically placed telephones and a siren activation device exemplified this approach. This system ensured efficient communication and rapid response, which is crucial in emergencies.
Overcoming Challenges and Loss
The department’s journey was challenging. The tragic loss of Chief Fred Broussard in 1999 during a response call was a profound moment for the MVFD and the community. This incident underscored the inherent risks of firefighting and the bravery of those who serve.
Legacy and Future
The Maurice Volunteer Fire Department is a beacon of community service, unity, and resilience. From its inception as a response to tragedy to its evolution into a well-equipped and highly respected institution, the MVFD’s journey is a testament to the spirit of Maurice. Chief Matthew Trahan’s reflections on the department’s history and impact underscore the enduring legacy of those who have served and continue to serve.
Conclusion
The story of the MVFD is more than just a chronicle of a fire department; it is a narrative of a community’s ability to come together in the face of adversity, transcending political divisions and personal differences. It is a story of ordinary people doing extraordinary things, united by a common goal to serve and protect their community. The MVFD’s history is not just about firefighting; it’s about the heart and soul of Maurice, Louisiana.
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Credit: This story is adapted from the original text written by Carroll Comeaux, with later additions by Matthew Trahan and Rod Broussard. It offers a brief historical look at the MVFD and provides a glimpse into the history and the Maurice community spirit. This author hopes it provides an engaging and comprehensive overview for “Maurice Today” readers. For readers who would like the full-length document originally authored by Carroll Comeaux with additions by Matthew Trahan and Rod Broussard, click the following link for a PDF download.
