About Us

Pearce’s Mill Fire Department: Our History and Evolution

Founding and Early Years

Chartered on October 6, 1955, Pearce’s Mill Fire Department was established to address a critical need for fire protection in Cumberland County. Prior to this, fire protection services had been discontinued; prompting local residents to form Pearce’s Mill Township and establish the fire department. 

In its early days, the department operated from a modest shed in Massey Hill, equipped with a 1946 American LaFrance Ford fire engine donated for its use. The fire engine was stored at a local service station. Under the leadership of Fire Chief Perlie A. Reeves, volunteers were alerted by phones or a horn mounted on a pole, and responded promptly to calls for help. 

Growth and Development 

By 1956, thanks to successful fundraising efforts, the department constructed a new two-story, three-bay fire station at 1722 Gillespie Street, built by the firefighters themselves. The community’s continued support allowed for the acquisition of additional equipment, including a new Dodge D500 Howe Fire Engine in 1961, purchased for ten thousand dollars. During this period, a fire tax was introduced to further support the department’s operations. 

Modernization and Expansion 

A growing need for a more centrally located fire station led to the construction of a new five-bay facility in May 1979, equipped with modern amenities of the time. In 1972, the introduction of a fire tax enabled the department to hire its first paid firefighter, who worked from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., while volunteers covered nights and weekends. Over the years, staffing increased to two firefighters per shift, with an average annual call volume of 500-600. 

In January 1988, Fire Chief P.A. Reeves retired, and Ronnie A. Marley was appointed as the new Fire Chief, a position he still holds today. The early 1990s saw further expansion, with the hiring of six full-time shift firefighters in 1993, who worked 24-hour shifts in a rotating schedule. This period also led to the addition of a drive-thru bay, an administrative wing, and a maintenance bay to the fire station. By 1998, the addition of a Deputy Fire Chief enhanced the department’s response capabilities. 

Expanding Services and Infrastructure

In the early 2000s, the department expanded its services to include full-scale EMS calls, significantly increasing its call volume. The department began handling over 1200 calls annually, a number that has continued to grow. Today, Pearce’s Mill Fire Department responds to an average of 1600-1800 calls each year. 

Staffing levels have also evolved, with five firefighters on duty during the day and three at night, comprising both full-time and part-time personnel. In 2016, the fire department underwent a major remodel, adding three new drive-thru bays, additional sleeping quarters, a conference room, and a larger training room. 

A New Era 

As we look back on our history, it is clear how far Pearce’s Mill Fire Department has come. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a vital community service provider, we remain committed to protecting and serving our community with the highest level of professionalism and care.

On January 1, 2025, Fire Chief Ronnie Marley retired after 51 years of devoted service to the Pearce’s Mill community. Tracy Smith was appointed as interim fire chief and, on January 6, 2025, was officially named the permanent fire chief.

Fire Chief Tracy Smith began his career in the fire service in August 1984 at Pearce’s Mill Fire Department. Over the years, Chief Smith advanced through the ranks, eventually promoting to Deputy Chief in 1994, in which position he served until his appointment as Fire Chief. 

In February 2025, Chief Smith implemented a new full-time shift schedule of 48/96, where full-time employees work a 48-hour shift followed by 96 hours off. This scheduling change, which has gained popularity in the fire service, aims to enhance firefighter wellness, improve operational efficiency, and increase overall job satisfaction.