Irving T. Bartlett

9

With the passing of Irving T. Bartlett, on Monday, June 12, 1972, the Association has lost a loyal member and Councillor. A native of Nantucket, graduate of the Nantucket High School and Wentworth Institute, and a veteran of World War II, Mr. Bartlett was appointed Chief of the Nantucket Fire Department in 1954, holding that important post until his death. His work with the department made him an outstanding Fire Chief in not only Nantucket but throughout New England. Active in Boy Scout work, a Trustee and member of the North Congregational Church, he also was a valued member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows Lodges, and Rotary Club. He was highly respected throughout the community.

Always interested in the Historical Association, he accepted an appointment as a Council member in 1971, but had previously assumed the chairmanship of the Committee on the Gardner FireHose-Cart House in 1967, and supervised its maintenance from that time. A regular attendant at all Council meetings, he was always willing to share his knowledge in the programs for protection of the various exhibit structures. On that memorable night when the Old Mill and Old Jail were set afire by persons as yet unknown, it was Chief Bartlett who quickly dispatched firemen and apparatus to the unprotected Oldest House, and stood guard personally there and in other places throughout the hours of darkness. His devotion to the welfare of the community will continue to be a tribute to his memory.