The Bowmanstown Volunteer Fire Company was first chartered on May 10, 1935 with H. E. Sander as their first president and fire chief. On May 21, 1935, the newly formed fire company purchased its first fire engine for $100.00. By this time, the fire company had 23 members.
On September 14, 1951, the fire company purchased 1 1/2 acres to build a new meeting hall and engine room. This served the community very well for 25 years. In 1976 a new garage was added to the fire house, making it possible to house an additional four units. By this time the fire company had already purchased its first new fire engine, a 1971 John Bean on a Ford chasis. The cost of this unit was $30,000.00
In March of 1979, a 1600 gallon tanker was added and in November of 1980 a used quick attack mini pumper was also added to the fleet.
By 1985, the old used tanker had seen its last days and a new tanker was then purchased to replace it. The cost of the 1985 Ford F.M.C. tanker was $60,000.00
In the early 90s, we then purchased a 1951 Chevy Rescue Truck from Washington Township, New Jersey for $100.00
Later on, the fire company wanted to add another a piece of apparatus to the fleet. So in 1995, they decided on a Pierce Saber Rescue Engine. This replaced the aging 1971 engine and 1951 Rescue truck. The cost of the Pierce was $200,000.00
In the late 90s, RCN donated a 1995 Chevy van to be used as a fire police vehicle and to carry extra equipment.
As the years rolled by, in the summer of 2004, Lehighton Fire Department donated to us a 1981 Schwab Rescue truck on a Ford Chasis. This generous donation was greatly appreciated because at that time, the Pierce was running out of room. At this time, the van has been retired.
Spring of 1995
The arrival of Engine 211
1st Prince Fire
2nd Prince Fire 1999
Approximately 15 fire companies from Carbon, Northampton, Lehigh, and Schuykill Counties fought this early Saturday afternoon fire.
