Clay Volunteer Fire Department is more than a fire station — it's a community institution. Founded after a barn fire in 1915 and incorporated in 1917, we've operated as a fully volunteer department for more than a century. Today we run two stations, seven pieces of frontline apparatus, and an active roster of trained firefighters and EMS providers.
Clay Fire was formed by a small group of citizens after a barn fire on the Sponable property in 1915. They held their first meeting at Schnieder's Hall on October 16, 1916, with Calvin Bonstead as Chairman. The department was incorporated on February 19, 1917 — and the principle that drove its founding has not changed since.
That principle is simple: when something burns, when someone is hurt, when a neighbor calls for help, somebody has to answer. Today we operate two stations, seven pieces of frontline apparatus, and a full roster of trained firefighters and EMS providers — every one of them a volunteer.
This is who we are. This is what we do.
The job is broader than most people realize. On any given week, members of Clay Fire are doing some combination of all of these — and most of them happen far away from the public eye.
Fires, medical alarms, vehicle accidents, hazardous materials, mutual aid — every call gets the same level of preparation.
Apparatus and equipment are checked, tested, and kept in a constant state of readiness. Vehicle checks, equipment inventories, station upkeep.
Continuous learning is non-negotiable. Weekly drills, certifications, and outside training keep skills sharp and standards high.
Public education outreach — fire prevention, safety presentations, smoke alarm programs, and community engagement.
From a handful of volunteers in the late 1800s to a full-service department serving twenty square miles today.
Meet the officers, firefighters, EMS providers, and support members who make Clay Fire what it is.
Honoring the members of Clay Fire whose service to this department, and to this community, will never be forgotten.