Quincy Fire #2
Returning to the firehouse Forty-nine years later in preparation for my 50th Anniversary Visit in 2025
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In 1975 and 1976, photojournalism was an art of observation, storytelling, and patience. My camera was my closest companion, an extension of my hand and eye, capturing moments the world might never see otherwise. As a young, aspiring photojournalist in college, I was drawn to document the Quincy, Massachusetts, fire department—not just for the action but for the humanity behind every call.
Living in the main firehouse, I was guided and trained to ensure my safety. Those two summers, I set out to capture the lives of firefighters, preserving moments of camaraderie, bravery, exhaustion, and resilience. I didn’t shy away from the harsh realities; my work took me behind the scenes of burning buildings, tragic car accidents, medical emergencies, quiet pauses between calls, and the solemn aftermath of each incident. These weren’t just photographs—they were pieces of history, revealing the grit and spirit of those who ran toward danger. I called this collection “Trial By FIRE.”
If your interested in seeing my original body of work you can go to this link and purchase the book or a downloadable PDF: PREVIEW-Trial by FIRE Book
Fast-forward nearly 50 years, and my camera remains my faithful companion. In the summer of 2024, I returned to Quincy with decades of experience, a lifetime of wisdom, and a commitment to honor the legacy of those early years, now side-by-side with the new faces of the fire department.
This time, I’m combining my old images with new ones to create a photographic exhibition series, “Then and Now.” Much has changed: equipment has evolved, and fire and rescue challenges are different, yet the heart of the job—the courage, the commitment—remains steadfast, perhaps even more vital. One striking example of change: fifty years ago, people had about 17 minutes to escape a house fire. Today, with most furniture, fabrics, and building materials made from synthetic products, that time has shrunk to just three minutes—barely enough to reach safety. Thankfully, smoke detectors, sprinklers, and advanced monitoring systems now buy precious seconds, alerting residents early and controlling flames. Firefighting has transformed with technological advances, protective gear, and tactics for faster, safer rescues.
My project is more than just photographs; it’s a tribute to 50 years of courage and sacrifice. Through my lens, I’ve bridged decades, capturing the timeless nature of the work, the faces of old friends and new heroes, and the stories that have shaped the Quincy Fire Department. This journey is a way to immortalize the past and present—a testament to my path as a storyteller and the enduring spirit of those who dedicate their lives to saving others.
In 2025, I’ll celebrate the 50th anniversary of my first time photographing Quincy’s firefighters in action. Plans are coming together for a photo exhibition within the city and a new book capturing what it was like to document firefighting from the summers of 1975-76 to 2024. My event will be part of a more significant celebration, as 2025 also marks Quincy’s 400th anniversary—a milestone commemorating four centuries of history, diversity, culture, and community that have shaped America. Look for more stories, including mine, as we honor this extraordinary place with a year of celebrations and events. I’m honored that the city of Quincy wants to include me in this celebration!
Here are a few images from this summer in 2024.
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Until next time, thank you! Robert