1897

After several false starts, the Ferndale Fire Department is formed. This is the organization that later is renamed the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department.

1898

The department acquires a Hook & Ladder wagon, and forms the Hook & Ladder Company to manage it. They also acquire two hose carts, and Hose Co. 1 and Hose Co. 2 are formed.

1899

A third hose cart is acquired. We’re not sure, but it appears at first the hose cart was attached to Engine Co. 1. In 1904 a third hose company was started with membership of boys and the cart was assigned to them.