“Under Fire”
Pennsylvania’s Volunteer Fire Departments and
Post World War II Social Change
Abstract:
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has a long history of volunteer fire service, dating back to the formation of Philadelphia’s Union Fire Company in 1736. But despite early successes, volunteer fire departments today are not performing well and many even question their existence. This project explores what factors led to the downfall and stagnation of volunteer fire departments in Pennsylvania, specifically in the post-World War II era. Beyond analysis of the historical foundations of volunteer fire departments and subsequent social changes, this project also incorporates how potential improvements could be achieved, considering Pennsylvania’s political and social climate.