In the early months of the year 1959, a group of men gathered in the village of Tipton to form a Fire Department to protect the 300 homes and businesses. On November 5, 1959, the Fire Department was organized and was called Tipton-Antis Township Volunteer Fire Company District #2. Officers were nominated and an election was held. The original officials of the Fire Department consisted of President W.C. Peterson, Vice President B.L. Taylor, Treasurer A.T. Bland, Secretary John Green, Jr., and Fire Chief John Cooper.

In the early Summer months of 1960, land on which the Fire Company now sits was donated by Mrs. Stewart. A concrete block building was erected on this property, measuring 40' x 80'. The structure included a two bay garage, meeting and social room, and a kitchen. Much of the construction and finishing work was completed by the volunteer members. The building was appraised at $40,000.

On December 20, 1960, the building was dedicated to Dr. and Mrs. J. Sewell Stewart. Dr. Stewart died in January of 1954.

Several events were planned for the new company, including the lighting of the community Christmas tree in front of the Baptist church, a community Christmas party for the children of Tipton, and a visit from Santa Claus, who would arrive on the new Mack Fire Truck.

Since those early days, several notable improvements have taken place at the Fire Hall. The building is now 40' x 240' and houses 3 fire trucks. It has a fireman’s lounge, state-of-the-art kitchen, several offices and a social hall that seats over 300 people for bingo, community events, wedding receptions, and birthday parties. The estimated value is now $500,000.

We have come a long way in the past 47 years and owe it all to our founding forefathers and the men and women volunteers of our company who have given unselfishly of their time and their talents. The ongoing commitment of those serving today, as well as tomorrow, will keep the memories of our accomplishments alive.

It is the mission of the Tipton-Antis Volunteer Fire Company to provide the highest quality of service in the protection of life and property through the prevention and extinguishment of fires, the rescue of entrapped victims and/or any other type of incident in which this Company may be called into service.

Back To Home Page