Sacramento Volunteer Fire Department
1850 – 1872
The Mutual Hook and Ladder Company, formed on February 5, 1850, was the first fire company in the State of California. It served with distinction until disbanded October 30, 1859.
On June 23, 1858, a grateful city donated this plot of ground to its Volunteer Fire Department for the internment of its deceased members. It is the only known maintained firemen’s plot west of the Mississippi.
Sacramento’s Fire Department consisted of six Engine Companies, one Hook and Ladder, and a Hose Company. The Volunteer Fire Department gallantly served the city until April 1, 1872 when an act by the state legislature established paid departments.
Courtesy hmdb.org
