Caldwell's volunteer fire department was organized as The Caldwell
Hook & Ladder Co No.1 on July 22, 1886, five years before the city
of Caldwell was incorporated. The original 22 members of the
association obtained their first pieces of equipment -- a four-wheel
truck (pulled by manpower) complete with extension ladders, axes and
leather buckets for holding water-- through membership dues and 
donations from citizens.

Reorganization as The Caldwell Fire Company took place in 1907, 
providing for election of officers and directors and limiting 
membership to 40 persons. Membership over the years has averaged
20 to 25.  

After its incorporation in 1891, the City of Caldwell gradually 
took over supervision of the fire company. Giving its first $250
for the purchase of a new fire truck in 1916. The volunteer fire 
department has historically answered calls for assistance both 
inside the city limits and in the neighboring rural areas.

Throughout its history, The Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department has
been a community service - oriented organization, sponsoring
circuses, maifests, first aid classes and safety programs, and
maintaining Fireman's Park from 1889 to 1910. The company's 1937
fire truck was restored as a city preservation project.