Over 130 years of dedicated service to Prospect Park and surrounding communities
Our story began in the late 1800s, shortly after Prospect Park became an incorporated borough in 1894. After a serious fire destroyed two homes on Thirteenth Avenue, then known as Carolina Avenue, local citizens recognized the need for an organized fire company to protect their growing community.
That tragedy sparked a movement that led to the formation of Prospect Park Fire Company No. 1, officially chartered in 1895. The fire that inspired our founding reminded the community that protection requires preparation—and that lesson has guided us for over a century.
1895
Hose Carriage
Stable Quarters
Volunteer Members
Community Support
In the beginning, firefighting in Prospect Park looked very different than it does today. Early members relied on basic equipment, community support, and sheer determination. The company's first firefighting facilities included a combination hose carriage, and its earliest quarters were located in a stable near Lincoln Avenue.
Like many volunteer fire companies of the time, the department was built by neighbors helping neighbors. Residents supported the company financially, and many borough men were expected to take part in its work in some way.
"Neighbors helping neighbors—that was the foundation of everything we built."
As Prospect Park grew, so did the fire company. A dedicated firehouse was erected in 1909, giving members a true home for apparatus, meetings, training, and community gatherings.
Historic accounts describe the building as one of the finest firehouses in Delaware County at the time, complete with space for equipment, company functions, and civic use.
The first firehouse stood at 10th and Lincoln Avenues and served the community for decades before being replaced in 1964 by the current building that houses our department today.
10th and Lincoln Avenues
Finest firehouse in Delaware County
1964
Fire company officially chartered
First dedicated firehouse built
Current building constructed
Station 8 continues to serve
Through every decade, the mission has remained the same: to protect life, property, and the community we call home.
From the days of bucket brigades and hose carts to today's modern apparatus, training, and emergency response, Prospect Park Volunteer Fire Department No. 1 has continued to answer the call.
Today, the department operates from 10th and Lincoln Avenue in Prospect Park and is recognized as Delaware County Company 8. Our members continue the proud volunteer tradition established by the founders in 1895, serving Prospect Park and supporting neighboring communities whenever needed.
10th and Lincoln Avenue, Prospect Park
Delaware County Station 8
Engine trucks, ladder trucks, and rescue vans
State-certified programs for all members
Serving neighbors since 1895
Our history is more than a record of buildings, equipment, and dates. It is the story of generations of volunteers who gave their time, energy, and heart to protect their neighbors.
We honor those who came before us by carrying that same spirit forward every day.
"Prospect Park Volunteer Fire Department No. 1 remains proud of its past, committed to the present, and ready for the future."
