direction.

In 1844 what is known as the Fire District was organized. Its territory
consists of about two square miles of land, having the Park as a centre,
and includes most of the buildings of the town. It originated from the
unwillingness of the outlying districts to help support a suitable fire
department, of which they, themselves, felt little need. Nevertheless,
at its formation the town granted land and a sum of money. A Chief
Engineer, with seven assistants and a prudential committee were
constituted officers. Subsequently the care of sewers, sidewalks,
water-works, and lighting of streets were assumed by the Fire District,
and the duties were performed by commissioners. A curious controversy,
now settled, arose with the town as to which should look after the
street crossings. The fire department from the start has been sustained
by the zeal of its members, and now, directed by its Chief Engineer,
George S. Willis, enjoys an enviable reputation for efficiency.

[Illustration: THE PARK IN 1876.]

[Illustration: ACADEMY OF MUSIC.]

During the civil war the State and County are found to have acted in
harmony. The old militia system had died out many years before; in 1860
the Pittsfield Guards of 1853 was re-organized under the name of the
Allen Guard, and in January of the following year declared its readiness
to respond to any call from the government. On April 19, within
twenty-four hours from the time of receiving word, the company was on
its way and became a portion of the Eighth regiment. Its Captain was
Henry S. Briggs, later Brigadier General, and after the war elected
State Auditor. Then, at short intervals, until the close of the war, the