By Alan Keith, Guest Columnist
Unaka – The community is fortunate to have a well organized and functional volunteer fire department, and is proud to recognize our volunteers.
Thanks to former Fire Chief Lewis Jones, the history of the Unaka Volunteer Fire Department is being shared with Cherokee Scout readers.
As is the objective of volunteer fire departments throughout Cherokee County, the Unaka Volunteer Fire Department’s purpose is “to acquire and own firefighting equipment and other facilities in order to protect persons and property from injury, loss, damage or destruction by fire.”
This organization’s history reflects the dedication and selfless service of Unaka area neighbors for the past 46 years. When the department was formed in 1979, lacking a dedicated building, the retired forest service “deuce and a half” fire truck was rotated among the initial volunteers’ homes, including Guy Roberts, Robert McGrady and Lewis Jones. The fire department was incorporated in 1983. Founders include Fred Fenstermaker, Mark Horne and Lewis Jones.
The same year, equipment and operations were moved into the Unaka community building to avoid the 1983 truck water pump from freezing. The first 30’ x 40’ bay of today’s building was built in 1985. A second bay during 2001 expanded the building to a 2,100 square foot facility.
To facilitate meeting its objectives, the Unaka Volunteer Fire Department just completed a much-needed expansion to their building on Joe Brown Highway. In 2024, the department added 35-by-70 feet for a total of 3,650 square feet.
Future plans include a conference room and bathroom. Until this last expansion, there was no running water and a potbellied stove provided the heat.
Fire chiefs over the years include Fred Fenstermaker, Dallas McMillan, David Lovingood, Will Hayes, Lewis Jones, Tylor Dockery, Joe Ricker and Ann Lukens. Thirty highly trained community volunteers provide protection for about 700 homes in the Unaka Fire District.
Equipment is very well maintained and “rolling stock” includes a First Responder truck, a Class A 1,250-gallon pumper truck, a 2,000-gallon tanker and a 300-gallon mini-pumper/brush truck. Emergency tools and first-aid equipment include Jaws of Life, Cutter-Spreader, portable generator, self-contained breathing apparatus and medical supplies.
Young community members are encouraged to join this organization and volunteer their time for the good of their Unaka neighbors.
Donations to this non-profit organization are always welcomed and encouraged.
The writer is the official correspondent for the Unaka Community Development Club.