New Bern is the second oldest city in North Carolina, so it is no surprise that much of its history stands out. Among them is the rich history of the New Bern Fire Department, the oldest in the state.
The New Bern Fire Department is a unique organization, starting with the Atlantic Hook & Ladder Company, which was organized as a fraternal organization on May 14, 1845. The fire company became inactive during the Civil War because many members were away serving in the Confederate Army. Throughout most of the war, New Bern was occupied by Union forces. Union Army soldiers established the New Bern Steam Fire Engine Company No. 1 - the Button Company - as a fraternal organization on January 1, 1865. Upon their return from the war, members of the Atlantic Hook & Ladder Company reconstituted their fire company - the Atlantic Company - thus beginning a fierce rivalry that lasted for decades. Learn more about the rich, quirky history here .