The Union Fire Company marked its 106th anniversary last week, celebrating more than a century of volunteer fire service in Hopewell Valley and the surrounding region.
The company was founded on Jan. 15, 1920, bringing together volunteers from Titusville, Washington Crossing, and neighboring communities under a single organization. The name “Union” reflected its early mission to serve multiple communities and to work across municipal boundaries — an approach that continues today through mutual aid and regional response.
In its early years, the fire company operated out of temporary locations, including a local garage and the Washington Crossing train station, before establishing a permanent firehouse. The company’s facilities have been rebuilt more than once over the decades, including after fires in 1923 and 1992.
Union Fire Company’s role expanded beyond firefighting during World War II. In 1943, members helped establish a local rescue squad after recognizing the need for organized water rescue and emergency medical response in the area, particularly along the Delaware River.
Over the years, the company’s equipment, training, and responsibilities have evolved as emergency response standards changed, while remaining a volunteer-based organization supported by the community. The Women’s Auxiliary, founded in 1925, has played a long-standing role in supporting the company through fundraising and community involvement.
Today, Union Fire Company continues to provide fire protection and emergency response services throughout Hopewell Valley and surrounding areas, carrying forward a tradition of volunteer service that began more than a century ago. Learn more at the company’s website.
This story was adapted from the Union Fire Company’s 100th anniversary brochure and from Mike Chipowsky. All photos courtesy of the Union Fire Company and Mike Chipowsky.
