How It All Began

In the fall of 1973, a casual coffee meeting at the old Hyattstown Diner between Buddy May, Otis Norwood, Roger “Chick” Myers, and Ed Calloway sparked the idea to establish a fire department in Urbana. With initial support from Avon Chisholm, Buddy applied for a charter with the State of Maryland. On December 11, 1973, the Urbana Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., and the Urbana Volunteer Rescue Squad, Inc., were officially chartered.

Early Days and Growth

News of the new fire and rescue company quickly spread, leading to a surge in membership at the subsequent meetings. The company’s first quarters were generously donated by Mr. Joe Knott Sr., and after some improvements, they met the standards of the Frederick County Fireman’s Association. Early fundraising efforts included a carnival held on grounds donated by the Hyattstown VFD.

First Equipment and Service Milestones

The Fifth District VFD of Clarksville MD donated the first ambulance, a 1963 Cadillac, followed by a second ambulance from the Kensington VFD, a 1969 Chevrolet Suburban. By the end of their first year, the rescue squad had answered 71 alarms. In 1975, the department purchased 10.764 acres of land from Mr. Arthur Keyes for $53,820, marking the end of a long search for a permanent station site.

Acquisition and Expansion

Thanks to community fundraising and support, the department purchased a 1972 Ford LaFrance, 750 GPM pumper for $27,000 from Honeywell Corporation. By March, the department was officially accepted into the Frederick County Volunteer Fireman’s Association, and Engine 231 was placed into service on April 1.

Development and Recognition

The department’s mortgage was paid off within five years instead of the planned twenty, celebrated with a note-burning ceremony at the annual banquet. Urbana Fire & Rescue continues to grow and serve the community, emphasizing its commitment to excellence and service.