A Century of Service: The History of the South Hempstead Fire Department

The origins of the volunteer fire service date back to 1648, when New York Governor Peter Stuyvesant appointed fire wardens to inspect chimneys and enforce fire safety measures. The first organized firefighting tools included buckets, ladders, and hand-drawn carts, and by 1731, the first fire engines arrived from England.

The South Hempstead Fire Department received its charter in 1905, and by August of that year, the organization was officially completed. With no central headquarters, early meetings were held at members’ homes. This practice continued until it became too inconvenient for their families. At that point, Seaman Chester, a local carpenter, provided a workshop as a central meeting place, creating a warm and practical setting for department business.

The department’s first piece of equipment was a hand-drawn, 30-foot hook and ladder, stored at the home of Maynard Torrington, who later became the department’s second Chief. Due to space constraints, members modified the ladder, reducing it to 20 feet and replacing the longer ladders with extension ladders for better efficiency.

Much of the historical record from these early years comes from a compilation written for the department’s 50th anniversary in 1955. Unfortunately, the document was not signed, and the original author remains unknown. Nevertheless, we extend our gratitude to the committee that carefully preserved our history for future generations.

As the department evolved, new equipment was acquired, ushering in the motorized age. The original hook and ladder was retrofitted with a tow bar, allowing it to be attached to the rear bumper of a member’s automobile for quicker deployment during alarms.

By 1922, the department underwent a major reorganization, adding several new companies, all housed at the headquarters on Linden Avenue in the Village of Hempstead. This was the only firehouse serving the district at that time.

In 1929, the district constructed a new headquarters on May Street, which remains the department’s home today. This expansion led to the formation of a fifth company, which elected a slate of officers—each with a strong history of leadership. These officers brought experience and dedication, shaping the department’s future and mentoring newer members.

This period marked a significant evolution in the department’s capabilities, laying the foundation for a century of dedicated service to South Hempstead.

The department continued to flourish, but in 1931, it faced an unexpected challenge—annexation by the Village of Hempstead. As a result, the Linden Avenue firehouse and property were taken over, and the existing companies were disbanded.

The issue of fire protection remained uncertain, but the Village of Hempstead appointed ten members from South Hempstead as temporary firemen to continue providing emergency services. Ironically, two of the original companies, Reliance Engine #3 and Eagle Engine #1, continue to serve the Village of Hempstead to this day.

After intense negotiations, the South Hempstead Fire Department was left with only three pieces of apparatus and $26 in cash from the department’s treasury. Despite this setback, the department persevered, rebuilding and re-establishing its role as the primary fire protection service for South Hempstead.

Fire is both a firefighter’s greatest tool and their greatest adversary. When controlled, it provides warmth, safety, and protection—but when unleashed, it can be devastating. In 1910, fire had already claimed all of the department’s early records, a tragic loss for the fledgling fire company.

Then, in February 1932, fire struck again. The South Hempstead Fire Department's newly established headquarters, once described as the only public building between Rockville Centre and Hempstead, was engulfed in flames. The fire, originating from a hose dryer, quickly spread and consumed the structure.

Despite heroic efforts from firefighters and assistance from neighboring departments, the blaze was uncontrollable. An inadequate water supply doomed the firehouse, reducing it to ruins. While the department’s apparatus was saved and even used to battle the fire, all records were lost once again.

This devastating event marked one of the most challenging moments in the department’s history, but true to the spirit of the fire service, the members of South Hempstead Fire Department persevered, rebuilt, and pressed forward, ensuring that their mission to protect the community would never be extinguished.

Recovering from the devastation of 1932 took time, but as the department began returning to normal operations, new challenges emerged. In February 1935, the Board of Fire Commissioners determined that Chief Louis Sichling and Second Assistant Chief Frank Eckert had failed to maintain harmony within the department. In a narrow vote, they were removed from office, sparking outrage among members.

The situation quickly escalated when one disgruntled member stripped a fire engine and drove off with it. The vehicle was returned the next day, but tensions had already reached a boiling point. Many senior members refused to acknowledge the newly appointed Chief Cornelious Ouwerkerk and Second Assistant Chief Hildig Hansen, leading to weeks of discord, false alarms, and police involvement.

To regain control, the Board of Fire Commissioners attempted to enforce new bylaws that transferred the authority to appoint the Chief of Department from the membership to the Board. The members strongly opposed this change, leading to their suspension from responding to alarms.

By July 1935, the Board took drastic action, removing 44 members from the roster, effectively cutting the department's firefighting force in half. This move alarmed residents, who questioned the department’s ability to fulfill its emergency response duties. Acting Chief Ouwerkerk reassured the public that coverage would continue, but community confidence had been shaken. In retaliation, the district banned local organizations from using the firehouse, further straining relations with the community.

Finally, in September 1935, all 44 members were reinstated, and leadership within the Board of Fire Commissioners underwent changes. By October 1935, normal operations resumed, and public access to the firehouse was restored.

This episode underscored the critical importance of maintaining a clear distinction between the Fire Department and the Fire District. While the District is responsible for funding and equipment, the Chief, officers, and members must ultimately oversee fire and emergency operations. Since then, both entities have taken significant steps to maintain a balanced relationship, ensuring efficient service to the community while preventing future administrative disputes.

As the community grew, so did concerns about delays in emergency medical assistance. Residents worried about their safety and security, leading some members of the South Hempstead Fire Department to recognize a need for first aid response within the department.

Determined to provide emergency medical assistance, members quickly established a fund of $600, which was used to purchase a 1934 Buick ambulance previously owned by Meadowbrook Hospital. This marked the beginning of the department’s ambulance service.

Firefighters underwent training in advanced first aid techniques, instructed by the American Red Cross. The newly equipped ambulance carried oxygen, resuscitation equipment, and standard first aid supplies, many of which set the foundation for modern emergency medical services (EMS) protocols.

This initiative not only improved response times but also laid the groundwork for the department’s continued commitment to medical emergency response, a tradition that continues to this day.

The Unthinkable Happens

On March 7, 1947, tragedy struck the South Hempstead Fire Department in a way it never had before. While responding to an alarm, Ex-Chief Richard Dewling, serving in his capacity as a warden, was directing traffic on Long Beach Road when a car failed to yield. Forced to move quickly to avoid the oncoming vehicle, Dewling tragically stepped into the path of a responding fire engine.

The engine, rushing toward the fire, was unable to stop in time, and Dewling was struck. His injuries were severe, and despite the best efforts of those on the scene, he succumbed to his injuries. His passing marked the first and only line-of-duty death in the history of the South Hempstead Fire Department.

Honoring His Legacy

The dedication and devotion demonstrated by Chief Richard Dewling remain unmatched, serving as a solemn reminder of the inherent risks firefighters face in their mission to protect the community. His sacrifice embodies the courage, duty, and selflessness that define the fire service.

In honor and remembrance of his supreme sacrifice, we dedicate this page to Ex-Chief Richard Dewling, ensuring his legacy lives on within the department and the community he served so faithfully.

As the community expanded, so did the capabilities of the South Hempstead Fire Department. Advances in water supply, alarm systems, and communications significantly boosted operational efficiency. To keep up with increasing demands, the community approved the purchase of two brand-new firefighting apparatus, positioning the department for the future.

A Game-Changing Opportunity

In the early 1950s, Ex-Chief William Johnston identified an opportunity to expand the department’s response area and revenue. The Birchwood neighborhood, located just beyond Stratford Road and outside the Village of Rockville Centre, was seeking bids for fire protection. Johnston presented this opportunity to the Board of Fire Commissioners, who were initially hesitant to compete for the contract.

However, Johnston was relentless in his pursuit, recognizing the long-term benefits of securing the fire protection rights. Eventually, the district submitted a bid, and to everyone’s surprise, South Hempstead was awarded the contract. This not only expanded the department’s jurisdiction but also provided critical additional funding, reinforcing the department’s growth and stability.

Expanding to Meet Community Growth

As new developments emerged east of Grand Avenue, Chief Johnston once again saw an opportunity to secure additional fire protection contracts. Understanding the challenges of securing funding for new equipment, he took a grassroots approach, personally visiting new homeowners as they moved into the area.

Johnston highlighted the advantages of having a firehouse nearby, even offering the use of the fire station for community meetings and events. His strategic outreach successfully gained public support, leading residents to advocate for South Hempstead Fire Department’s protection services.

Securing Permanent Fire Protection Rights

South Hempstead repeatedly won fire protection contracts for Baldwin Oaks and Birchwood through annual bidding. Eventually, the Town of Hempstead opted to make the agreements permanent, assigning full fire protection rights for both areas to the South Hempstead Fire District.

Attorney Ernst Marshall, representing the district, oversaw the legal finalization of the contracts, ensuring that the South Hempstead Fire Department would permanently serve these expanding communities.

A Failed Merger & Continued Growth

In the mid-1950s, the South Hempstead Fire District proposed consolidating an area north of DeMott Avenue, then under the jurisdiction of the Baldwin Fire Department. The proposal included a provision requiring Baldwin to provide necessary equipment for fire protection. However, the proposal was rejected without explanation, leading instead to the construction of the current Baldwin firehouse on Grand Avenue at Rose Boulevard.

Despite this setback, South Hempstead continued to grow. The department implemented a rotation system for apparatus acquisition, ensuring that new engines were purchased every 20 years.

• 1953: The district purchased two GMC fire engines.

• 1972: Two new Young fire engines joined the fleet.

• 1992: The department acquired two Pierce fire engines.

These strategic upgrades kept the department well-equipped, ensuring effective fire protection as the community expanded.

As South Hempstead prospered, the fire department expanded alongside the community. With growth came new challenges, including operational complexity and logistical concerns.

Modernizing Fire Chief Response Vehicles

During the early 1960s, it was common for fire chiefs to respond to alarms using their personal vehicles. This practice created equipment storage issues and limited operational efficiency. By the mid-1960s, the department recognized the need for dedicated response vehicles and purchased a used Chief’s car from the Uniondale Fire Department. Shortly after, a second vehicle was acquired, exclusively designated for the Fire Chief.

Meanwhile, the First and Second Assistant Chiefs continued to use their personal vehicles, which were retrofitted with crude radios and warning devices. This practice remained in place until the 1980s, when the department fully transitioned to department-issued response vehicles. During this period, Assistant Chiefs were given a monthly stipend of $10 to offset the cost of using personal vehicles for fire department duties.

Achieving Financial Stability

Despite its growth, the department struggled financially, frequently operating at a deficit. Bi-annual audits identified two key issues: insufficient funding and inefficient treasury management.

The lack of a structured budget made financial planning difficult. This changed when Chief Robert Beam took the initiative to draft the department’s first formal budget, providing a clear financial framework. Through his meticulous oversight and planning, the department achieved financial stability, ensuring operational readiness and sustained growth.

Thanks to Chief Beam’s efforts, the South Hempstead Fire Department has remained financially sound ever since—a lasting legacy of his leadership and dedication.

Throughout the 1970s, the South Hempstead Fire Department solidified its reputation as a trusted and reliable emergency service provider. Whether responding to fires or medical emergencies, the department became a pillar of support for the community.

Expanding Emergency Medical Services

As call volumes increased, the need for Advanced Life Support (ALS) services became evident. Recognizing this, several dedicated members took the initiative to enroll in advanced emergency medical training programs. This rigorous coursework included:

• EKG interpretation

• Medication administration

• Intravenous therapy

• Advanced airway management

These trailblazing members became the first Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMTs) in the department, setting a precedent for future generations. Their dedication and skill inspired many others to follow in their footsteps, ensuring that South Hempstead remained at the forefront of pre-hospital emergency care.

Equipping the Department for Advanced Medical Response

With the addition of advanced life support equipment, the department’s medical response capabilities dramatically improved. South Hempstead quickly gained a reputation for having highly trained personnel who could deliver critical care when it was needed most.

This commitment to training and innovation laid the foundation for the department’s continued excellence in emergency medical services, a tradition that endures to this day.

As membership applications increased, so did the need for additional storage space and improved facilities. By 1981, the department embarked on its first major expansion since the firehouse was built in 1932. Under the leadership of Chief Roger Johnson, who served an impressive seven years, the firehouse underwent significant improvements:

• Addition of a garage storage area

• Creation of a designated turnout gear storage and changing area

• Upgrades and renovations to the recreation room

The recreation room was an essential space, allowing members to unwind and decompress after the physical and emotional toll of emergency response. Though some may have viewed it as a mere leisure area, its impact on firefighter morale and well-being was immeasurable.

Memorable Fires & Personal Reflections

One firefighter’s journey into the department began in December 1981, driven by a desire to serve the community. His first working house fire occurred on Maple Avenue, where he experienced firsthand the adrenaline and camaraderie that define firefighting. The experience cemented his dedication to the brotherhood of the fire service.

However, nearly two years passed before the next major fire—a massive gas station blaze at Grand Avenue and May Street. This fire was particularly notable due to:

• Multiple fully involved vehicles

• Extreme heat that melted engine-mounted lights

• A long and grueling firefight without outside mutual aid assistance

Despite the challenges, the South Hempstead Fire Department handled the blaze independently, a testament to its strength, training, and commitment to protecting the community.

As a smaller fire district, South Hempstead saw relatively few large fires, leading the department to focus heavily on emergency medical services (EMS). With the department’s existing ambulance dating back to the mid-1970s, discussions began on purchasing a modern replacement. After careful planning, a new Horton ambulance was purchased, and the older unit was sold.

Leading in Emergency Medical Services

With upgraded equipment and enhanced training, South Hempstead quickly became an EMS leader in the region. At its peak, the department had:

• 11 Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMTs), representing over 25% of the department

• 85% of its members trained in basic emergency care

This commitment to excellence did not go unnoticed. In 1995, the Regional EMS Council (REMSCO) of Nassau County honored South Hempstead as EMS Agency of the Year. This award recognized the department’s reliability, professionalism, and commitment, including their response to over 150 mutual aid requests in the previous year.

New Apparatus & Expanding Firehouse Facilities

The 1990s also saw major apparatus upgrades. Two brand-new Pierce fire engines replaced aging units more than 20 years old, ensuring that South Hempstead remained well-equipped for fire suppression and rescue operations.

Meanwhile, membership soared, driven by a renewed excitement for the fire service. The department became a social and civic hub, with increased participation from both firefighters and the wider community. Events like the Memorial Day Parade, a Night at the Races, and public Sunday drills strengthened the bond between residents and their fire department.

However, the May Street firehouse was reaching its capacity. To address this, the Board of Fire Commissioners proposed expanding the facility. With strong community support, the district purchased an adjacent property, demolished the existing house, and expanded the firehouse. The renovations included:

• Three additional apparatus bays

• Increased office space

• An elevator for full accessibility

The project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget, solidifying the firehouse’s role as the centerpiece of the community.

Challenges & Leadership Transition

By 1998, an allegation of impropriety within the fire district caused significant turmoil, leading to community concerns and a departmental shakeup. In the wake of these events, several long-serving Board of Fire Commissioners members retired, making way for new leadership.

This transition ushered in a new era, with younger and more dynamic commissioners continuing to build on the department’s mission. Their dedication and vision ensured that South Hempstead Fire Department remained strong, respected, and prepared for the future.

To this day, we salute these former commissioners for their years of service and commitment to the department and the community.

As the new century arrived, so did new challenges for the South Hempstead Fire Department. Under the leadership of Chief of Department Steven Morelli and Assistant Chief Frank Russo, the department embarked on a mission of revitalization.

Their focus was clear:

• Restoring the department’s reputation and strength

• Strengthening relationships within the community

• Welcoming new members while honoring past traditions

Through dedicated leadership and unwavering teamwork, the department once again rose to the top. Chief Russo and Chief Morelli recognized that the true strength of the department lay in its firefighters—the men and women who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the South Hempstead Fire Department.

Their hard work and commitment made this resurgence possible, reaffirming the department’s role as a pillar of service and excellence in the community.

A Nation Under Attack

September 11, 2001, began like any other day—clear skies, perfect temperatures, and a quiet sense of normalcy. It was Primary Election Day in New York, and the city moved at its usual pace.

At 8:46 AM, the world changed forever. Terrorists hijacked four commercial airliners, launching an attack on the United States unlike anything seen since Pearl Harbor. Two planes struck the World Trade Center in New York, another hit the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and the fourth—destined for further destruction—was brought down in a Pennsylvania field by its brave passengers.

As chaos unfolded, New York City’s first responders raced toward the devastation. The New York City Fire Department (FDNY), New York City Police Department (NYPD), and Port Authority Police Department (PAPD) risked everything to save lives and evacuate buildings. In their heroic efforts, they helped over 25,000 people escape before the twin towers collapsed. Tragically, nearly 3,000 lives were lost, including 343 FDNY firefighters, 37 PAPD officers, and 23 NYPD officers.

A Loss That Hit Home

The South Hempstead Fire Department quickly shifted into emergency response mode, preparing for possible deployment. Members were relocated to Belmont Park, standing by for assistance at Ground Zero.

Among the fallen was one of our own: Firefighter Joseph Hunter, a 13-year veteran of the South Hempstead Fire Department and an FDNY firefighter for five years. Joseph died ensuring that others could live. His loss, along with that of South Hempstead resident and NYPD officer Robert Fazio, deeply affected our department and community.

Honoring the Fallen

In the days following the attacks, South Hempstead firefighters traveled to Ground Zero, joining the massive effort to search for survivors and recover the fallen. Back home, the firehouse doors remained open, serving as a place for comfort, mourning, and unity.

Three days after the attacks, a prayer service and vigil was held at South Hempstead Fire Department headquarters. Hundreds gathered to honor the fallen, express grief, and stand in solidarity as Americans. Though we were shaken, we were not broken.

A New Era of Preparedness

The events of 9/11 ushered in a new era for emergency responders, with increased training in terrorism response, hazardous materials, and weapons of mass destruction. South Hempstead firefighters met these challenges head-on, ensuring that the department remained prepared for any threat.

Meanwhile, the department continued to evolve, adding critical apparatus to strengthen response capabilities. This included:

• A second full-use ambulance to meet growing EMS needs.

• A combination engine/aerial ladder, enhancing firefighting and rescue operations.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

As we reflect on more than a century of service, we do so with pride, gratitude, and anticipation for the future. This history has been a privilege to compile—a testament to the dedication, resilience, and brotherhood that defines the South Hempstead Fire Department.

The next 100 years await. May they be just as impactful, inspiring, and unwavering in commitment to service.

To belong to the South Hempstead Fire Department is an honor. To work alongside these extraordinary men and women is a privilege. To serve this community is a responsibility we cherish—one we would not trade for anything.