Township of Mantua Fire and EMS Museum

10/16/2025

View Lawrence M. Smashey's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

10/15/2025

10/12/2025

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of former Chief and founding member of the Township of Mantua Fire and EMS Museum, Lawrence M. Smashey Sr. Larry joined his beloved Frieda in glory on October 11, 2025. A true leader, Larry served many years as Chief and led his department to excel in many areas of Fire/Rescue and Confined Space Recovery. His efforts and driving force were instrumental in making the MTFEM a reality. It stands today as a testament to his commitment. A true example of volunteerism, Larry had served his community as a teenager in New Sharon and continued way into his retired years with Mantua Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 dedicating over 77 years of service. We will miss his leadership, knowledge and friendship.

The members of the Township of Mantua Fire and EMS Museum wish to offer our sincere condolences to the entire Smashey family during this time of loss. Funeral arrangements will be forthcoming as the family arrangements are finalized. Rest easy Chief, we’ll take it from here… 🚒

09/13/2025

Frieda, You are forever in our Hearts! 💔

08/10/2025

Please note:

Friends of the Mantua Township Historical Commission and the Mantua Township Fire and EMS Museum, we are postponing the Mantua Historic Walking Tour due to the recent passing of a dear friend and member of the MTHC, Michael DiGiamberardino, and the passing of a dear friend and member of the Fire and EMS Museum, Frieda Smashey. We will reschedule this event for next spring. We will keep you posted on a new date. We thank you for your understanding.

We invite you to visit the Mantua Township Historical Museum and Library. We are open every Saturday from 10 to noon. We also invite you to visit the Mantua Township Fire and EMS Museum. They are open every Tuesday from 6 to 8 pm.

08/09/2025

Remembering “Frieda Francis Smashey” 🚒 💔🧑🏻‍🚒 June 20, 1938 - July 5, 2025

07/12/2025

View Frieda Smashey's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

07/09/2025

It is with sincere sadness that we advise our readers on the passing of senior member, Frieda Smashey. Frieda was the true and leading force of our organization. Her loss is unimaginable to us. A true public servant for over 60 years, Frieda and her husband Larry Sr. were instrumental in bringing the museum to fruition. It stands today as a testament of her dedication and commitment. The members of the Township of Mantua Fire and EMS Museum wish to offer our sincere condolences to the entire Smashey family during this difficult time of loss…