HISTORY
Originally called Cadyville, the town of Snohomish was established
when white settlers staked claims at the confluence of the Pilchuck and Snohomish Rivers
in the late 1850s. The first move to provide fire protection was taken in 1883 with the installation of a force pump along the river bank with 100 feet of hose.
By July 1888 the city had a system of water lines, and serious consideration was given to establish an organized fire company. In August of 1888 an official volunteer department was organized with a hose cart and 1000 feet of hose, paid for by citizen donations.
In December of 1890 the city purchased a steam fire pumper.
The pumper cost $4,200 and is on display in the lobby of Station 43,
our Headquarters Station.
Fire fighting methods and the needs of the Snohomish Community
have changed greatly since 1890.
Here are some highlights of the journey:
1911
The first motorized wagon for carrying
fire equipment was purchased by the City.
1927
Fire Station
at 2nd and Avenue A
completed.
1958
FIrefighters received individual radios to call them to fires.
1981
Aid Car purchased from BIckfor Motors.
1985
First Chaplaincy
for Fire Department.
2003
City of Snohomish annexed into Snohomish County Fire Protection District and property for Ray Lee Brown Training Facility dedicated.
2011
Ray Lee Brown Traning Facility completed.
2020
Outbreak of COVID-19 necessitates widespread use of face masks, vaccinations, social distancing and alternative public education strategies.
1920
The old bell and Cascade Mill whistle alarms were replaced with an electric siren to announce fires.
1938
Traffic light installed at 2nd & A to allow fire engines to respond to calls more safely.
1965
Commissioners agree District will pay for the cost of fire hydrants and person asking for the hydrant will pay the cost of installation.
1981
Aid Car purchased from BIckfor Motors.
1990
Stations 40 and 42 were built.
2007
Advanced Life Support Paramedics added to
District Staff.
2014
Fire Crews return to
Station 41
after extensive roof repairs.
2021
Discussions begin
on the feasibility of a
Regional Fire Authority
with Everett Fire.
1925
Talks began to replace the "Fire Shed" on Avenue A with
an actual building.
1942
Snohomish Fire Protection District established by vote of the people, and 3 fire commissioners elected.
1973
Snohomish joined the COunty Dispatch network in March.
1984
Station 43 was built.
1995
Station 41 built.
2009
Two new ambulances purchased by the District.
2020
Fire Chief Ron Simmons retires and new Cheif Don Waller
is appointed.
1933
1960 High School Fire
1956 Mel's Service Station
1974 Mill Fire
1984
1950 Parade
