In 1959 a group of men had a dream that the community of Churchville would have a fire protection agency. Today that dream is a reality. Many hours of thought, planning and labor was given to make this reality come true.
Approximately 25 men gathered on August 6th, 1959, to determine the feasibility of organizing a fire department for the community with Harold Wright as Chairman. There was much interest and desire to make this available to the community. It was organized on Sept. 6th, 1959, with 41 charter members. A charter was granted October 4th, 1959 and the department was incorporated on November, 14, 1959.
Randolph Siron sold them the land in 1960 for the original building, which consisted of 2 bays, a kitchen, and restroom. The building measured overall 30x80 and was constructed by Donald Allison. A dedication service was held May 27th, 1962, with the Dr. T.G. Shuey, Chaplain of the Augusta County Fire Department, delivering the address. A note burning ceremony was held October 5th, 1963, with Rev. Thomas E Henderson, Pastor of Loch Willow Presbyterian Church, Speaker.
In 1975 the Fire Department upgraded its property they purchased the adjoining land from Mabel Wilson and Mrs. Randolph Siron. In 1979 the Garnet (Buck) Vaught property, which joined the Wilson property was purchased. Then an addition measuring 70x80 was added in 1979, it consisted of a new kitchen, a dining room, additional restrooms, and more bays for the emergency vehicles.
Dr. Eugene Nolley encouraged the organization to state a First Aid Crew which was formed at the same time as the Fire Department.
Prior to any Fire or Rescue apparatus leaving the building when responding to a call each unit must have a minimum of a Firefighter or E.M.T. and Driver on board. To qualify for any of these positions a member must have numerous hours of required training. The members also attend training classes throughout the years to keep up to date on the latest training, latest techniques and proper uses of all the equipment. They also purchase new uniforms and much of their own needed equipment throughout the year.
A variety of fundraisers are held throughout the year which include our four-day carnival with our chicken dinner and parade, our weekend fund drive, Christmas Tree Sales, Food Stands, Bingos, Cakewalks, Community Dinners, Car-Truck-and-Motorcycle Show and The Letter Fund Drive to collect donations from the community which help run our organization.
Our organization thanks you and expresses our sincere appreciation to the many people in the community and outside the community for supporting us during the last and past years of operation.
Thanks for all of your continued support,
Churchville Volunteer Fire & Rescue Members