Diseased
Phoenix Society, Inc.
MEMBERS
PHOENIX SOCIETY, INC.
Founders:
March 1966
> Nelson K. Carter, Sr.,
Frank Carter Sr.,
Fire Commissioner: Robert
O. Lowery,
John B. Stewart, Jr., Carl G. Booker, Sr.,
and Cecil W. Alston >
PHOENIX SOCIETY, INC.
HISTORY
In August, 1965 Deputy Chief's Aide John B. Stewart, Jr. and Firefighter Frank Carter, Sr., Carl G. Booker, Sr., Cecil W. Alston and Nelson K. Carter, Sr., prompted by their knowledge of the civic and charitable work of the Vulcan Society, Inc. of New York City, conceived the idea of forming a similar organization in Hartford, Connecticut. They met formally for the first time in October, 1965. In December of that same year, they sent correspondence to the President of the Vulcan Society, Lieutenant Vincent W. Julius. President Julius, in his reply stated that, "The Vulcan Society would offer any advice, support and guidance that might be desired by the Hartford Firefighters." In March, 1966, these five men attended a regular meeting of the Vulcan's, where they met Commissioner Lowery, a long active and founding member of the New York organization. Ideas and suggestions were given to the five visitors from Hartford, enabling them two months later, to hold their own organizational meeting, thus establishing the Phoenix Society, Inc. At this meeting goals and purposes were established which were as outstanding as the young men evolved. It was decided that this organization should be dedicated to helping brother Firefighters toward promotional aspirations, attending to raise funds for needy persons and charitable organizations, establishing a scholarship fund for the children of Firefighters and creating a closer relationship and a feeling of fellowship among all brother Firefighters. |
The name and emblem of the Society was conceived by Carl G. Booker, Sr., one of the original members. The name Phoenix, is derived from the Egyptian bird which had a life span of 500 years, after which, it consumed itself in fire, only to arise again as a young bird. The incorporating officers were:
John B. Stewart, Jr. -- President
George B. Hayes -- Treasurer
Carl G. Booker, Sr. -- 1st V. P.
Cecil W. Alston -- Chaplin
Frank Carter, Sr. -- 2nd V.P.
William Butler -- Chairman, Trustees
Nelson K Carter, Sr. -- SecretaryThe Phoenix Society was honored to be one of the sponsoring organizations of the first "Conference of Black Professional Firefighters." The aim of this Conference was to work with brother Firefighters throughout the country in order to help make the Fire Service more professional. The Phoenix Society felt then, as we do now, the experience of the present Black Firefighter, will help to recruit and advance the Black Firefighter When a Black man in search of a profession can feel free to walk into any station, anywhere and be accepted on his own merits, then we can say that our American Dream is nearing realization.
The Phoenix Society hosted the first National Convention in of Black Professional Firefighters was born. The Society feels this is another milestone reached by Black Firefighters in our efforts to improve and advance the standards to the fire service throughout the country.
The International Association of Black Professional Firefighters, named by Aaron O. West, is nearing its mark of 100 participating organizations. The Phoenix Society has played a a significant role in this great endeavor.
The Phoenix Society continues to strive toward a closer bond between the Fire Service and the Community we serve.
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