Early Beginnings: 1923-1925

The idea for the Community Fire Company No. 1 of North Whitehall Township began in the fall of 1923 at a meeting of the Odd-Fellows Lodge. Instead of building a hall for their lodge, members decided that the community needed a fire company. Inspired by the Greenawalds Fire Company, they began organizing efforts.

On January 17, 1924, citizens gathered in a local schoolhouse to officially form the fire company. A twenty-man committee was appointed to solicit funds and secure members. The newly formed organization quickly raised $1,300 in pledges and recruited 115 members. By May, they had purchased their first fire truck, a Hahn Fire Truck, for $5,289. Land was acquired from Oliver Gross for the token price of $1, and by the end of the year, a Ladies Auxiliary was formed and chartered in 1925.

Building the Foundation: 1925-1944

The fire company faced its first major test on March 6, 1925, with a fire at the Walberts Hotel. The same year, their fire truck was involved in an accident, leading to the tragic death of Victor Gangwar. Despite these challenges, the company completed its building at a cost of $18,600 and secured a $14,000 mortgage.

During World War II, the community's needs evolved. In 1942, a siren was installed on the fire hall roof to serve as an air raid warning system. By 1944, the company spearheaded efforts to improve firefighting conditions in Lehigh County, leading to the formation of the Lehigh County Volunteer Firemen's Association. That same year, they purchased a Howe Fire Apparatus for $6,735 and expanded their facilities by acquiring the J. P. Deibert property for $3,950.

Growth and Innovation: 1945-1972

The post-war years saw significant growth for the fire company. In 1945, they welcomed a new fire truck and sold their old one. In 1957, they acquired a tank truck capable of hauling 1,000 gallons of water, marking the beginning of their water hauling service. As the community expanded, so did their equipment and facilities. A new Mack fire truck was added in 1964, and a more advanced phone system for receiving fire calls was installed in 1966.

The company faced its largest fire in 1966 at Trexler Orchards Packhouse, which required assistance from all Northern Lehigh County fire companies. This event underscored the need for ongoing advancements in their capabilities, leading to the acquisition of a new Dodge tank truck in 1967 and the donation of a Scott air pack by the Lions Club in 1969.

Modernization and Expansion: 1972-1997

The 1970s and 1980s brought further modernization. In 1972, a new Mack Diesel tanker/pumper truck was introduced, and the company acquired additional land from Charles J. Snelling in 1979. They also added a '74 International mini-pumper to their fleet and responded to significant fires, including the Zee's Hotel fire in 1979 and an arson fire at the Ziegler Pallet Company in 1988.

A new building was dedicated in 1988, signifying a major milestone in the company's history. The following years saw continued enhancements, including a contract with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission in 1990 to respond to emergencies on the Turnpike and the purchase of a '97 Swab/International Rescue Truck for $195,000.

Throughout its history, the Community Fire Company No. 1 of North Whitehall Township has remained committed to serving and protecting the community. Their legacy of dedication and service continues to this day, supported by the unwavering efforts of their members and the community.