For emergencies, please call 911.

The Fire Department was formed in 1911 as the Central Hose Company with Sulon B. Stedman as Chief, using only hand drawn carts; a water system was just installed in part of the City. The original fire station stood just a few feet north of the current City Hall.

Original Officers and Members:
W.J. Armfield, President
Sulon B. Stedman, Fire Chief

J.H. Kivett W.A. Coffin C.M. Hayworth Duke Smith L.B. Lambert F.F. Brittain W.A. Hinshaw Cary Lovett

W.H. Dickens D.K. Lockhart Fred McPherson John Grey A.J. Craven D.M. Sharpe O.V. Woosley

In 1920, a Republic hose wagon was purchased and Clarence Rush became Fire Chief. In 1923, a 750-gallon per minute American La France pumper was purchased for $12,000. This historic truck has been restored and is maintained by the City.

In 1939, the current city hall was built, including space for the fire department. Chief Rush and two firefighters became the first paid personnel. In 1955, the paid force was increased to a Chief and six firefighters, and in 1956 an upstairs addition was added for dormitory, living, and kitchen space.

In October 1961, Chief Rush died while driving the Chief's car on Sunset Avenue, having served 41 years as Chief. Many still remember and mention his distinguished appearance, the smell of his cigar, and his white hair. There are still rumors of him being seen around the stations or sitting on a fire truck or even harassing some of the newer members, especially at night.

John A. McGlohon was appointed to succeed Chief Rush and served as Chief until retiring on December 31, 1985. Chief McGlohon's tenure saw much growth and improvement in stations, equipment, personnel, and the services of the department, including:

1966	First aerial apparatus
1968	First fire prevention code
1970	Bond election for a station and pumper
1970	Merger with North Asheboro-Central Falls Sanitary District and Fire Department
1971	Occupied two new fire stations with a force of 26 paid members, 25 volunteers and 4 dispatchers
1981	Obtained the current Class 4 insurance rating for the City

On January 8, 1986, James W. (Jim) Smith became Chief and since that time the department has strived to maintain the high standard of service set by previous administrations.

In 1991, the department joined a countrywide dispatch system which became a "911" dispatch center on March 17, 1993.

Proclamation Honoring 1923 American La France Pumper Fire Truck

WHEREAS, the Central Hose Company, volunteer fire department of Asheboro purchased a 1923 American La France Pumper Fire Truck; and

WHEREAS, this fire truck served the City of Asheboro and its citizens from 1923 to 1962; and

WHEREAS, many structures and lives were saved through its service to the citizens of Asheboro, and

WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Asheboro City Council that the 1923 American La France Pumper Fire Truck be restored to commemmorate and honor the firemen who have served the Asheboro Fire Department, and

WHEREAS, many individuals have contributed their time and energies into restoring this fire truck; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that these individuals and companies be recognized. Public recognition to the following is given.

Tim Allred Tommy Fox Jerry Barnes Alvin Voncannon Premier Powder Coating Draughn Brothers Radiator

Jerry Williams Frank Rose Steve Filarsky Campbells Body and Paint Goodyear Tire and Rubber Asheboro Firefighters

NOW THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAIMED by the City Council of the City of Asheboro that this 1923 American La France Pumper Fire Truck be bestowed the honor of being recognized as the City of Asheboro Bicentennial Fire Truck.

This, the 9th day of January, 1997.

W.J. Trogdon, Mayor