This compilation of Fire Department stories and events was gathered over many years. Some of the facts from yester-years traditions, techniques and technologies don’t measure up to a modern fire department like ours. Fighting fire is a science in South Bend.

This is the end of the third and fourth volumes of the history of the South Bend Fire Department, sourced mostly from newspaper articles, City Council documents, and interviews with active-duty firefighters and retirees. It is a compilation of fire department stories wherever they could be found. Told from the perspective of the department gives it a human touch. It was a joy reliving what those who came before us did on and off the fire ground. I know those of you who are credited in this collection of stories will remember the events you were present at years ago. I still remember it like it was yesterday. There is something in this history for everyone, including kids (although some kids might be too young). You’ll find interesting statistics, day-to-day activity and events, as well as high drama in the fight for life and the living.