45 TURNS 50! 

 

2009 marked the 50th anniversary of King County Fire District 45. On Saturday, September 19, the District held an open house and celebration of the anniversary and of the people who have been a part of the Fire District throughout its history. A number of former members attended including Frank Vanhulle, one of the original Fire Commissioners, and Dave Harder who was the Fire Chief for most of the first 30 years of the District. Former members and the public had the opportunity to tour the station, look at historical displays, and compare new fire apparatus to not-so-new. A dedication ceremony included a plaque presented by Mayor Will Ibershoff and Councilperson Elizabeth Walker and featured former Chief Harder telling a bit about the history of the department. Also, a commemorative art piece created by local artist Bruce Edwards was unveiled and is now displayed in the lobby of the headquarters station.

Also presented was the Fire District "Honor Roll"; this area of the lobby of the headquarters station is intended to list every member who has served the community as a part of the Fire District over its 50 years. Unfortunately, records for the earlier part of the District's history were not complete. If you are a former volunteer, employee, or commissioner, or a family member of a former member, we encourage you to come visit us and help us make this display as accurate as we can.

A commemorative booklet was created and can be downloaded here.