History of Union Fire Company
The Union Fire Company traces its proud history to 1898, when concerned citizens first organized to protect their community. The need for formal fire protection became tragically clear in 1905 when a devastating blaze destroyed the Radel Building in Tharptown, proving that bucket brigades were no match for serious fires. This catastrophe led to the company's official charter in May 1905.
"The courage and dedication of our early volunteers laid the foundation for over a century of service to Coal Township."
In its formative years, the company conducted meetings in the old Schaffer School until 1931, when the building was sold to the United Brethren Church. The Shamokin Packing Company then generously donated land for a permanent firehouse, recognizing the firefighters' valuable service in clearing water troughs, filling watercourses, and other community improvements.
The early firefighting equipment reflected both the challenges and ingenuity of the era. The company's first apparatus was a four-wheeled hose cart acquired from the Independence Fire Company of Shamokin. This sturdy unit, equipped with 1,000 feet of hose and two brass nozzles, was pulled by teams of horses to fire scenes. When speed was essential, firefighters sometimes hitched their cart to passing trolleys heading toward the fire location. The distinctive clanging of the cart's two large spring-operated bells would warn pedestrians and clear the way as the volunteers raced to emergencies.
A revolutionary change came in 1917 with the purchase of an American LaFrance motorized fire truck, replacing the horse-drawn equipment and marking the dawn of a new era. This was followed by newer apparatus in 1946, then an International Pumper in 1968. The company's current frontline engine, a modern International/KME model purchased in 1999, continues this tradition of progressive equipment upgrades.
Beyond emergency response, the Union Fire Company became woven into the fabric of community life. In 1937, it sponsored a 54-piece marching band that became a source of local pride under directors including George Hoover and Gordon Thompson. The company made history in 1948 by launching what was believed to be the nation's only fire department-sponsored radio program. The fire hall itself grew over time, with expansions adding a spacious social quarters that could accommodate 400 people for community events.
The company's legacy includes notable leaders like its first president, Casper A. Tharp, and the unique father-son chief combination of Earl Cupp Sr. and Earl Cupp Jr. From its beginnings with horse-drawn equipment to today's modern firefighting technology, the Union Fire Company has served Coal Township for over a century with unwavering dedication, constantly evolving while maintaining its core mission of community protection and service.
