The earliest records of the organization of a fire department in Monroe was the German Hook & Ladder Co in 1858. Equipment consisted of ladders, pails, chains, ropes, a wagon, bell and four brass trumpets, uniform shirts, belts and helmets. In case of fire, one man was stationed at the fire house to ring the hand bell, and four men were sent to each corner of the Square with a horn which he sounded by yelling: FIRE!
Celebrating Our Past: Oct. 14, 2020