Our history is a work in progress, so please check back as we add to this section.

Narrative History

In 1960 Michael Athey, Richard Brown, and Harold Busey wrote an excellent article entitled Organized Fire-fighting in Shepherdstown which covers the period of 1793 to 1960. This article, which is now history itself, captures the time and trials that led up to the mid 20th century. We have included the article here in its entirety for all to enjoy.

TimeLine

		1793
		Tax levy passed to fund first fire engine.Shepherdstown was Mecklenburg at this time.
		1803
		Fire engine purchased
		1804
		First fire house Built
		1885
		Silsby Steam Engine Purchased. This engine is still owned by the department
		1888
		Bell tower erected. Ringing the bell indicated a meeting. Ringing it quickly indicated a fire.
		1914
		New Firemen's Hall Completed. This is what most today would refer to as the old fire hall.
		1928
		Siren replaces bell as alarm system.
		1945
		# of fire calls: 9
		1959
		# of fire calls: 49
		1960
		Ladies Auxiliary formed.

If you know of an important part of the department's history that we've
overlooked, please let us know by e-mail at: info[at]svfd.us

A few years ago, a documentary film was produced about the Shepherdstown Fire Department. It was produced by one of our members as a college school product. The original documentary is :40 Minutes, here it has been condensed to about :8 minutes. Enjoy.