Fire Department History

Over 100 Years of Service

Fire Department Organization

The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department traces its roots back to July 1913 when it was officially organized following a series of devastating fires that struck downtown, resulting in the destruction of several wood frame buildings. The dedicated founding members included A.B. Ames (Fire Chief), M.Y. McMillan (Assistant Chief), and Firefighters Ben Ewing, G.T. Raden, O. Reams, Leo Bogard, Frank Roper, R.E. Waterman, and O.A. Dunaway.

The First Fire Station

During the challenging times of the Great Depression, Winter Garden's original fire station was constructed at 127 South Boyd Street. This significant milestone was made possible through funds secured by Mayor George Walker from the Works Progress Administration (WPA), initiated under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Mayor Walker, together with Fire Chief Hoyle Pounds, enlisted the help of Franklin Cappleman, a talented college student who had just completed an architectural drafting class at Georgia Tech, to draw up the plans for the new fire station. The construction of the building was completed in 1938, standing as a testament to the resilience of the community. The original fire station is now home of the SOBO Art Gallery, providing public access to art and culture.

Sound The Alarm

In the early days, the Fire Department's siren was mounted on the water tower adjacent to the fire station. It could be activated by a switch from either the fire station or the Pounds Motor Company, formerly located at 162 West Plant Street. The two locations shared a telephone party line, so both were promptly notified when a fire was reported. Interestingly, long-time Winter Garden residents fondly recall that the siren went off every day at noon, signaling lunchtime for the community. As the city grew, the Fire Department evolved, transitioning from a volunteer-based organization to include career and paid-on-call members as the need arose.

Present Day

Today, the Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department has grown into a four-station, 72-personnel career department, serving the city residents, businesses, and visitors with fire suppression, advanced life support, and specialized rescue services. Beyond emergency response, the department prioritizes community risk reduction through proactive measures like public education, fire prevention initiatives, and various community programs. The department's commitment to enhancing the quality of life within Winter Garden remains its top priority.

The City of Winter Garden and the Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department take immense pride in our rich history, recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of those who have served the community over the past century. While remembering the past, the department continues to embrace opportunities that ensure Winter Garden remains the best small city in the State of Florida.