The Legacy of Atascadero Fire Department
By The Atascadero News Editorial Board
Established in 1915, the Atascadero Fire Department has a storied history rooted in community spirit and volunteerism. It all began with the foresight of community leaders who, as construction started on the Administration Building, procured a Model-T Ford truck equipped with a soda-acid water tank to serve as the town’s first fire truck. This marked the inception of what would become a robust and essential community service.
In its infancy, the department relied entirely on volunteers. Among the early figures was Lew Cole, a pivotal character who was hired to be on duty during the dry summer months. Cole, who owned his own fire truck, played a crucial role by directing volunteers at fire scenes, ensuring organized and effective firefighting efforts. Volunteers were compensated $1.00 per fire, a token of appreciation for their courageous contributions.
A significant development occurred in 1922 following a catastrophic 5,000-acre wildfire near the Eagle Ranch property. This disaster underscored the need for a more structured fire response mechanism, leading to the creation of the Atascadero Fire Protection District. Initially covering a 7-square-mile area with a population of fewer than 3,000 residents, the district represented a critical advancement in local fire safety infrastructure.
The evolution continued on February 4, 1926, when Atascadero’s first paid fire department was established. The following year saw the construction of the original firehouse at 5815 Traffic Way, a building that still stands today, now serving as a mixed-use residential and retail structure. Designed traditionally with two engine bays on the ground floor and living quarters upstairs, it symbolized the growing professionalism and commitment of the fire service.
The Atascadero Fire Protection District was dissolved in 1979, coinciding with the incorporation of Atascadero as a city. This transition marked a new chapter, with the fire department officially becoming part of the city’s services. Over the years, the department expanded from one fire station to two, and from 10 paid members to 21, along with a staff of 12 reserve firefighters.
In 2022, Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services celebrated a monumental milestone: 100 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Atascadero. The centennial year was marked with various commemorative items, including special badges, belt buckles, and t-shirts designed to honor this historic achievement. Department members proudly wore these symbols throughout the year, reflecting on a century of courage, commitment, and community service.
References from the Atascadero Historical Society, City of Atascadero, and The Atascadero News Historical Records.
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