Historical Allusions Established, 1790, to burn English-influenced books in the Colonies. First Fireman: Benjamin Franklin. This statement states that Benjamin Franklin was the first fireman to burn books, however, he established the first fire brigade in Philadelphia and did not burn books as the book says. He actually stopped fires. Even though fireman did burn some books, it was just a protest against Great Britain. Also, just like the book said, the first firemen were made in 1790. Why would the author include this allusion?