The Seattle Fire Department Relief Association was founded as a result of the tragic death of Herman Larsen, the first Seattle firefighter killed in the line of duty.  He died March 9, 1891 from injuries sustained during a drill three days earlier.  While raising funds for funeral expenses the idea of creating an organization among the firefighters that would provide for emergencies of this nature was born.  A meeting was then held in Chief Kellogg's office on May 12, 1891 to form such an association.  By the second meeting on June 15, 1891 there were a total of 59 members and assets in the amount of $177.  Today the Seattle Fire Department Relief Associaton has over 400 members and assets of 1 million dollars!

 

The purpose the Seattle Fire Department Relief Associaton is to provide assistance to its members and their families in the form emergency loans, medical & dental reimbursements and benefits upon death associated with the member, his/her named beneficiary and his/her dependent child.