Date of Award
4-1996
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Anthropology
First Advisor
Dr. Alan Jacobs
Second Advisor
Dr. Ann Miles
Third Advisor
Dr. Arthur Helweg
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
This thesis explores the social and cultural dimensions of volunteer fire departments (VFDs) in West Michigan. Through interviews and observations of four VFDs, important dimensions of social cohesion and variability within and between the departments and communities are revealed. An emphasis is placed upon the gender relations within the departments and their effect upon the relations in the larger community. From these companies, a sketch of a small West Michigan community is derived. If used as a companion with other research of Midwestern communities of a greater scope and sample size, an understanding of social organization and social structure may be achieved.
Recommended Citation
Akers, Michelle C., "Volunteer Fire Departments: A Neglected American Voluntary Association" (1996). Masters Theses. 4857.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4857