Jasper Indiana Strassenfest

This year the Jasper Fire Department celebrates 125 years of service to the City of Jasper. As our history book reminds us, in 1896 of the beginning times when an ordinance provided the Town of Jasper the ability to organize a ”Fire Company” which passed by a unanimous vote. The Fire Company was formed January 13^th 1896. In June of 1896 the town council purchased a fire bell and it hung in the county courthouse. Today the bell is permanently mounted in front of the Herman Kiefer fire station located on east 6^th Street.

In the early times members were notified of a fire in Jasper by the use of a Fire Bell to a Wildcat Whistle and then Motorola Pageboy radios in 1966. From those early times until today as we utilize modern radios and the ability to be notified by using an app to activate our cell phones.

Many members have joined the Jasper Fire Department over the years. Since 1896 approximately 242 members have joined to serve the department and they have all been a part of rich history to bring the department where it is today. Many of these individuals have donated their time and talents to have the best tools and equipment needed. Today we have 37 members that serve and protect the City of Jasper and Bainbridge Township.

The Jasper Fire Department will always strive to have the best equipment and training for our firefighters to protect and serve the citizens of Jasper. As we celebrate 125 years we look forward to a new fire engine arriving late this year or early next year.  As part of the rich tradition many families in Jasper have more than one member that serves or has served over the years. Although many things have changed over the years, we still provide the same great service today.

Kenny Hochgesang
Jasper Fire Chief