Heritage of a Noble Profession
The narrative of our organization is rooted in the commitment of individuals who have devoted their lives to serving others. The tradition of firefighting embodies courage, loyalty, and a deep sense of public duty. This vocation is not just a job; it is a personal mission that involves risking one’s life daily, making firefighting a profession to be honored and respected.
Establishment and Fees
The Orange Fire Department was established on December 14, 1905, during a meeting of the City's Fire and Water Committee aimed at forming a volunteer fire service. To join, volunteers were required to invest $100 in shares of the "Company." A total of twenty-nine men purchased shares and became members of the Orange Volunteer Fire Department. This group later evolved into the "Orange Volunteer Fireman's Mutual Association," which is a precursor to the current Orange City Fire Fighters. ET. Parker and Ed Cope were appointed as Chief and Assistant Chief, respectively. Weekly drills took place every Monday evening, and volunteers received compensation of 50 cents per call if no water was used to extinguish a fire, and $1 if water was necessary. Additionally, they earned $1 for responding to false alarms.
Competitive Spirit
In the early years, local volunteers, referred to as cowboys, engaged in fierce competition to see who would be the first to pull the ladder wagon or hose cart to the scene of a fire. Upon hearing the fire alarm bells, they would sprint to the fire hall, vying against one another to claim the lead.
The Early Years
The department was established in the Fire Hall located at 122 S. Olive St., constructed in 1906 at a cost of $467. A prominent feature of the Fire Hall was its impressive 40-foot bell tower. The volunteers owned the facility and contracted with the city for its operation, responding to emergencies with a horse-drawn hook and ladder along with two hand-drawn carts.
In 1912, the department experienced significant advancements with the acquisition of a Seagrave pumper, marking the introduction of the city's first motorized fire apparatus. By 1914, they hired their first paid firefighter, William Vickers, who served as a driver and resided in the fire hall for a monthly rent of $8. Vickers was on duty continuously until 1917, when D.C. "Doc" Squires was brought on to assist him.
Fire Alarm System
In 1913, the city implemented its first fire alarm system, featuring 15 telegraph boxes strategically placed throughout Orange. Residents could visit Dittmer's Mission pharmacy to receive a small chart detailing the locations of these fire alarm boxes. This system remained operational until 1964. The Fire Hall served as the fire department's headquarters until November 1935, when a new facility was established at 153 S Olive. Following this, the Fire Hall transitioned into a senior center, but unfortunately, it later succumbed to a fire. The current headquarters, located on Grand Avenue between Almond and Chapman, has been in service since its dedication on May 9, 1969.
Fire Engines & Other Vehicles
In 1921, the Orange Fire Department acquired Orange County's inaugural motorized fire engine, an American LaFrance truck with a pumping capacity of 1,000 gallons per minute, for $13,000. By 1934, the firemen constructed their first rescue truck and began its operation. During that same year, the Orange City Fire Department responded to a total of 18 fire incidents.
First Fire Chief
The city's inaugural full-time fire chief, George Horton, began his career as a volunteer firefighter in 1925 and ascended to the position of fire chief in 1952. Chief Horton played a crucial role in guiding the department through its initial growth and the transition from a volunteer-based system to a fully paid workforce.
First Paid Staff
The city's inaugural full-time fire chief, George Horton, began his career as a volunteer firefighter in 1925 and ascended to the position of fire chief in 1952. Chief Horton played a crucial role in guiding the department through its initial growth and the transition from a volunteer-based system to a fully paid workforce.
Current Training & Operation
The responsibilities of modern fire departments encompass a wide range of critical services, including fire suppression, advanced life support, and medical transportation. They also respond to hazardous materials incidents and conduct environmental monitoring, as well as engage in technical rescue operations such as urban search and rescue, swift water rescue, and confined space and trench rescues. Additionally, they focus on disaster preparedness, public education, fire prevention, and investigations into fire and arson cases. Training programs have evolved significantly over the years to address the current and future needs of our community.
