Horsham Fire Company No. 1

History, Service, and Community Commitment

Executive Overview

Horsham Fire Company No. 1 has served Horsham Township since its founding in 1914, following a devastating barn fire in 1913 that exposed the community’s need for organized fire protection. From its origins as a small volunteer brigade to its current role as a modern combination fire and EMS organization, the department has remained dedicated to protecting life, property, and the community through emergency response, training, and public outreach.

Today, the department responds to approximately 700 fire-related incidents and more than 3,200 emergency medical service (EMS) calls annually, reflecting both the growth of the township and the expanding scope of services provided.

Founding and Early Development (1913–1920s)

The origins of Horsham Fire Company No. 1 trace back to a 1913 barn fire near the Horsham Friends Meetinghouse. Without a local fire service, residents relied on neighboring communities, highlighting the urgent need for organized protection.

Community leaders, including Leroy Forker and other early advocates, organized meetings to establish a fire company. Despite initial skepticism, support grew quickly. Funding began with small contributions, including an early donation of $10, and land for the first station was donated by O.P. Smith.

In 1914:

• The fire company was formally established
• The first firehouse was constructed on Meetinghouse Road
• Initial apparatus included a borrowed hand-pumper and a used motorized vehicle

Early operations relied entirely on volunteers and improvised equipment, including a steel railroad tire used as an alarm system.

Growth and Modernization

Fire Stations

Horsham Fire Company operates from two stations which are both staffed 24/7 by career staff:

• Station 15A (Headquarters) – 315 Meetinghouse Road
  • Three-story facility with six apparatus bays
  • Administrative offices, training space, and living quarters

• Station 15B – 1023 Horsham Road
  • Three-bay substation
  • Provides enhanced coverage to the northern and western areas of the township

The addition of Station 15B significantly improved response times and operational readiness across the township.

Apparatus and Equipment

The department has evolved from hand-operated equipment to a modern fleet capable of handling diverse emergency scenarios. Current frontline apparatus includes:

• Engine 15 – 2024 Pierce Enforcer Pumper
• Ladder 15 – 2018 Pierce Velocity 107' Aerial 
• Squad 15 – 2004 Pierce Enforcer Rescue Pumper
• Quint 15 – 2020 Pierce Impel 107' Aerial
• Advanced Life Support Ambulances – Multiple units supporting EMS operations

Additional support vehicles include command units, utility trucks, and specialized response equipment.

Emergency Services and Operations

Horsham Fire Company provides a full range of emergency services, including:

• Fire suppression
• Advanced life support EMS
• Technical rescue operations
• Fire prevention and public education
• Mutual aid response with neighboring jurisdictions

The department assumed responsibility for ambulance services in 1941 and has since developed a robust EMS division, now staffed with career personnel to ensure continuous coverage.

Notable Incidents

While the department responds to a wide range of routine emergencies, significant incidents highlight its operational capability. In March 2026, crews responded to a major apartment fire at Blair Mill Village, resulting in multiple injuries and a large multi-agency response.

Such events underscore the importance of training, coordination, and modern equipment in protecting the community.

Organization and Staffing

Horsham Fire Company operates as a combination department, integrating:

• Volunteer firefighters – Providing additional staffing for fire responses
• Career personnel – Providing 24/7 Fire and EMS staffing

Leadership is structured through:

• Elected operational officers (Fire Chief, Deputy Chief)
• Administrative leadership (President, Board of Directors)

The department maintains rigorous training standards aligned with local, state, and national requirements to ensure operational readiness.

Community Engagement

Beyond emergency response, Horsham Fire Company plays a vital role in community life through:

• Fire prevention education programs
• School visits and public demonstrations
• CPR and first aid training
• Participation in community events and township celebrations
• Support initiatives for special populations, including sensory kits for individuals with autism

The Ladies’ Auxiliary continue to support fundraising efforts and community outreach.

Funding and Support

The department is funded through a combination of:

• Municipal support from Horsham Township
• State and local grants
• Fundraising and community donations

This partnership between the township and residents ensures the continued delivery of high-quality emergency services.

Timeline of Key Milestones

• 1913 – Barn fire prompts need for organized fire protection
• 1914 – Fire company established; first station constructed
• 1941 – EMS services incorporated
• 2004–2024 – Progressive modernization of apparatus fleet
• 2019–2022 – Expansion to full-time staffing at Station 15B
• 2026 – Major multi-unit apartment fire response

Continuing the Mission

For more than a century, Horsham Fire Company No. 1 has adapted to meet the evolving needs of its community. Through a combination of tradition, innovation, and service, the department remains committed to its core mission: protecting the lives and property of Horsham Township residents.