History

On one Tuesday night, more than 125 years ago, Plattsmouth Volunteer Fire Department was founded and since that night its firefighters have been saving the lives and property of area residents.

According to a story in the February 1880 edition of the Plattsmouth Daily Tribune, the deparment, Fire Company No. 2, was formed in the courthouse February 1 with a full house attending.

Chairman V.V. Leonard called the meeting to order, attended by T.H. Taylor, secretary.

"Mayor Johnson and Councilman Leonard advised a speedy organization and both felt and extended the promise of aid from the city, as soon as the company could give some proof of their determination to work," the article states.

"Mr. President, the only way to organize is to organize!" was the recorded response.

Election of permanent officers followed and included John O'Rourke, president; V.V. Leonard, vice president; T.H. Taylor, secretary; A.W. McLaughlin, treasurer; EE. White, chief engineer; Geo H. Thompson, first assistant; and A. Ashley, second assistant.

When it formed, the fire company consisted of "44 good men, some of them too old for actual service, perhaps, but, as was suggested, will be able to do their share with their pocketbooks," the article states.

Although technology and equipment have changed over the years, there are many circumstances remain the same. The department currently has meeting minutes from 1931 and the issues that were faced in the 1930's, '40s, and '50s are still being faced today by the Plattsmouth Volunteer Fire Department.

Some interesting milestones for the department and contrasts them to today's operations.

  • In 1937, the department passed a rule that if firefighters didn't have telephones, they would need to get one by the next department meeting of "get kicked off the department". Today we have electronic pagers that alert us to a call.
  • In 1945, department members were given permission to put red lights on their vechiles at a cost of $3.75 each. Today a member can spend anywhere from $100 to $1500 per light.
  • In 1955, the PVFD established a mutual aid agreement with the Bellevue Volunteer Fire Department that still exists today.
  • In 1961, the fire department set training night for 7 PM the second Tuesday of every month. This is still valid in today.
  • In 1967, the departments aerial ladder collapsed in Nebraska City during a fire.
  • In 1969, the new fire station was dedicated.
  • In 1978, the first Jaws of life was purchased. This first set of Jaws is still in service today.