ST. LUCIE COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT HISTORY
 
  • The fire department formed in 1906 during a public meeting (Ft. Pierce Council) at the “Paxton” building to discuss the lowering of fire insurance rates (Ft. Pierce Fire Department).
  • W.E. Tylander was appointed the first fire chief during the meeting. It was said that Tylander was more of a figure head and politician than a true fire chief.
  • R.E. Mims, once thought of as the first fire chief, was appointed the first foreman (officer) of the new engine company during the meeting.
  • The first budget was set at around $1,000.
  • The first fire engine was ordered during the meeting (A Howe #38). The cost was roughly $2,000 made through payments of unknown description.
  • The first station was ordered, which was basically a large shed. Its location was thought to have been by the 2nd street power plant.
  • The new organization consisted of 33 volunteers (16 assigned to the engine company and the remaining on the two hose companies {reels}).
  • The firefighters were notified through a steam whistle located on the city power plant.
  • In 1910, the fire department was undergoing some setbacks and a reorganization meeting was held, where once again W.E. Tylander was appointed Chief. At this meeting, a second pumper was approved for purchase.
  • In 1913, R.E. Mims was appointed Chief.
  • During this time, R. E. Mims stored some fire equipment in his workshop in the area of Orange Avenue and the railroad tracks.
  • In 1924, the first Central station was built at Ave A and US1.
  • In 1939, Chief R.E. Mims was killed in an accident on his way to a convention in Georgia. He apparently had a relative on the department who was appointed to assistant chief in wake of his death. Hubbard was appointed Chief.
  • In 1954, the second Central was built at 7th and D.
  • In 1959, an act of Florida Legislature created the St. Lucie County/Ft. Pierce Fire District.
  • In the late 1960s, the Fire District began providing medical care in the streets. It is believed a shop truck was converted to hold some very basic first aid equipment.
  • In 1972, it was said that we began to provide EMS care and transport.
  • In 1996, we adopted our current name – The St. Lucie County Fire District.