Our History: A Legacy of Service and Commitment
From humble beginnings to a cornerstone of community protection, Station 34 has served with unwavering dedication since 1940.
OUR HISTORY
The Pocono Township Volunteer Fire Company was founded on May 16, 1940, by a group of dedicated citizens who were committed to protecting the community from the devastating effects of fire. Prior to its establishment, fire protection in the area was provided by the Stroudsburg Fire Department and the Pocono Mountain Volunteer Fire Company.
The company's first President, George Raish, and its first Chief, Edward Metzger, who served from 1940 to 1963, laid the foundation for what would become an essential part of the community.
Although the fire company was established in May 1940, it wasn't until September of that year that it received its first piece of apparatus—a used 1931 Dodge pumper purchased for $600 from a fire company in New Jersey. Originally a chemical wagon, the members of the Pocono Township Fire Company added a water tank to the truck to better meet the needs of the area. Affectionately known as "Old Number #1," this truck responded to numerous fires across both Pocono and Jackson Townships.
The fire company continued to serve Jackson Township until 1952, when Jackson Township residents formed their own fire company, the Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company.
Today, "Old Number #1" still takes part in local parades and events, a beloved symbol of the fire company's rich history and enduring community spirit.
NOTABLE FIRE CALLS
Since the company was formed in 1940, it has responded to numerous significant fire calls, showcasing the bravery and dedication of its members.
HIPSY GAP- SPRING 1984
A forest fire swept through over 400 acres in the Hipsy Gap area of Big Pocono, posing a significant challenge to local firefighters.
BARTONSVILLE INN- February 1985
The Bartonsville Inn, a hotel and restaurant (now Ertle Powersports in Bartonsville), was destroyed by fire. The incident nearly resulted in the tragic loss of life among its residents.
CAMELBACK SKI AREA LODGE FIRE
Firefighters faced unique challenges battling a blaze at the main lodge of Camelback Ski Area. In addition to the fire, "die-hard" skiers complicated efforts by skiing over fire hoses.
tractor trailer explosion
A tractor-trailer carrying 55-gallon drums of solvent exploded at the Warner Road bridge crossing on I-80, leading to a fatal accident west of the scene involving a truck, car, and bus in the traffic backup. The highway was closed for 23 hours, causing region-wide traffic gridlock.
Alpine Inn Fire- June 1999
The historic Alpine Inn, a stagecoach stop from the 1700s, was severely damaged by fire. The property, a once-beautiful landmark, was eventually demolished and replaced by the Tannersville CVS Pharmacy.
Tannersville Learning Center- February 2000
On a bitterly cold winter morning in 2000, the Tannersville Learning Center, formerly known as Pocono Township High School, was destroyed in a devastating fire. The blaze consumed the building that had stood as a beacon of education for generations, leaving the community in shock. For many long-time residents, including members of the fire company, the school held cherished memories, as it had been an integral part of their upbringing. Despite the firefighters’ valiant efforts in extreme winter conditions, the flames proved uncontrollable, marking a significant loss for the township. Elementary school students were especially affected, as they were displaced by the fire, which further underscored the profound impact on the community.
In the aftermath, the township rebuilt, constructing the Swiftwater Elementary Center to continue its legacy of education. Additionally, the grounds of the former school were repurposed into TLC Park, a vibrant community space that now features a pond, sports fields, a playground, pickleball court, and ice skating in the winter. The park stands as a poignant reminder of the school’s legacy, symbolizing the community's resilience and its ability to create something meaningful out of tragedy. Today, it serves as a hub for families and residents, blending the memory of the past with the promise of the future.
hazardous materials truck- September 2008
A truck accident on I-80 west of Tannersville highlighted the risks of hazardous materials transported through the region. The truck carried ammonium nitrate and dynamite, emphasizing the potential dangers to the community.
Camelback Village Explosion- July 2009
An explosion and fire destroyed a townhome in the Village of Camelback. Workers were injured in the blast and required hospitalization.
Big Daddy's Restaurant Swiftwater- April 2010
An early morning blaze devastated Big Daddy’s Restaurant in Swiftwater. Pocono Township assisted Pocono Mountain Fire Company in extinguishing the fire.
POCONO MANOR- NOVEMBER 2019
In November 2019, a massive fire consumed the historic Pocono Manor Resort, a cherished landmark that had stood for over a century. Known as "The Grand Lady of the Mountains," Pocono Manor was more than a resort; it was a vital piece of the region’s history, hosting countless weddings, family vacations, and events since its opening in 1902. The blaze, one of the most significant in Monroe County's history, required a massive response from fire companies across Wayne, Pike, Luzerne, Lackawanna, Carbon, Lehigh, and Northampton counties, as well as from New Jersey and Delaware.
In total, over 20 fire companies and more than 40 fire trucks worked tirelessly to combat the flames for over 24 hours. Despite their valiant efforts, the fire engulfed much of the property, leaving the community mourning the loss of an irreplaceable piece of local heritage. The Pocono Manor Fire underscored not only the bravery and dedication of the firefighters involved but also the deep emotional connection the community had to this historic site.
Photo courtesy of Tony Bendele Photography
FOUNTAIN COURT- JUNE 2023
In June 2023, a massive fire engulfed the Fountain Court complex in Bartonsville. Over two dozen fire stations from Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including units from Northampton, Lackawanna, Wayne counties, and Warren County, N.J., responded to the scene. Crews spent the morning and afternoon battling the flames, facing the challenge of a fire that reignited just as they thought it was under control. The incident underscored the dedication and resilience of the firefighters who worked tirelessly to protect the community.
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