Welcome to Hummelstown Chemical Fire Company!

The tradition of fire protection in Hummelstown has a long and proud history, dating back to 1819. Recognizing the growing need for fire safety, local citizens convened a meeting to establish a committee tasked with raising funds to purchase a fire engine. Their efforts led to the acquisition of the first fire engine, known as the Citizen engine, which was crafted in Philadelphia by the renowned Perkins & Jones in 1798. This engine arrived in Hummelstown by canal boat, marking the beginning of formal fire protection in the area.

Upon the engine's arrival, the community swiftly organized Hummelstown Fire Co., the town's first fire company. In 1882, the company underwent a name change, becoming Citizen Fire Company No.1.

The acquisition of a second engine, the Washington engine, occurred through a subscription drive. However, historical records do not indicate whether a formal company was established to operate this engine. Eventually, it was sold to the neighboring town of Linglestown.

In 1837, Hummelstown saw the formation of its second fire company, Niobe Fire Co.2. This company underwent several reorganizations, first in 1850 and again in 1865, before being officially chartered in 1872. Niobe Fire Co.2 raised $1,100 to purchase a new engine from Philadelphia, which was transported via the Pennsylvania Railroad and later delivered to Hummelstown by canal boat.

The citizens' dedication to fire safety was further demonstrated in 1869 when they decided to construct an engine house. Initially, a property tax was authorized by the legislature to fund this effort, but the community raised $2,000 before construction began and an additional $800 during the building process, negating the need for the tax. The engine house, located at 39 East Main Street, was built on land purchased from the Nancy Wooliston estate, with trustees David Hummel, Richard Fox, and G. T. Hummel overseeing its construction. This historic building, though no longer associated with the fire department, still stands today.

Niobe Fire Co.2 was the first company to occupy the new engine house. In the fall of 1881, the community purchased a suction engine, known as the Vigilant engine, from Pumsey & Co. of Seneca Falls, NY, for $300. This marked the formation of the Vigilant Fire Co., adding to Hummelstown’s growing tradition of fire protection.

Our fire department’s rich heritage reflects the unwavering commitment of Hummelstown’s citizens to ensuring the safety of their community, a legacy that continues to inspire us today.