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Edgewater
Volunteer Fire Department

History

Founding of the Department

The Woodland Beach Volunteer Fire Department was established to provide necessary fire protection for the community, addressing the issue of the nearest fire station being eight to ten miles away. The initial committee, consisting of Joe Fusco, Jim Hartman, Harry Sumner, Joe Wilmer, and Lou Wright, tackled the challenging task of organizing the fire department. Of the founding members, Joe Wilmer, at age 79, remains the sole living member of the group formed in 1946.

Black and white photo of the Woodland Beach Fire Dept. featuring vintage fire trucks parked in front of a brick fire station. Several firefighters in uniforms stand beside the vehicles.

Early Challenges and Solutions

The committee faced numerous challenges in setting up the department. A significant donation from the Bethesda Chevy Chase Fire Company—a 1919 American LaFrance chain-driven pumper named ‘Old Bess’—helped get operations underway. Initially, ‘Old Bess’ was stored in a garage behind Joe Fusco’s tavern, and committee meetings took place in members’ homes until a firehouse could be constructed.

Fundraising Efforts

To fund the new firehouse, the committee undertook various fundraising activities:

  • Collecting a fifty-cent parking fee at Beverly Beach Club on weekends, with proceeds going directly to the department.
  • Launching a highly successful bond issue, selling non-interest bearing $100 bonds redeemable in ten years, which raised sufficient funds to purchase land and materials for the firehouse construction between Quantico and Old Town Roads.
A vintage fire truck labeled "Highland Beach Vol. Fire Dept. Engine Co. 2 A.A. County MD" is parked in front of a large brick building with multiple windows and a gabled roof. The truck features side-mounted equipment and hoses.

Building the Firehouse

The construction of the firehouse was a community effort, with local businessmen donating money, time, talents, and services. Notable contributions included block laying by Jack Riley, flooring by Babe Luzi, plumbing by the Stansbury’s, and electrical work by Frank Duckett.

Recognition and Awards

The department has consistently excelled in fire prevention, earning local, national, and international awards. It has received certificates of excellence from governors including Tawes, Lee, Hughes, Mandel, Agnew, and Schaffer.

The Ladies Auxiliary

Formed in the early 1950s and active until the mid-1990s, the Ladies Auxiliary played a crucial financial role. Many members transitioned to associate members of the fire department, continuing their legacy of invaluable support.

Legacy and Recognition

In 1998, Curtis M. Dye and Joseph (Mac) Connell were named “President Emeritus” and “Chief Emeritus,” respectively, in recognition of their contributions. The department proudly boasts three members in the Anne Arundel County Volunteer Firefighters Hall of Fame:

  • Joseph M. (Mac) Connell
  • Curtis M. Dye
  • Roy L. Shirkey
  • Ladies Auxiliary member Marion Shirkey also recognized for her contributions.
Patch with a large blue number 2 surrounded by orange flames. Text reads "Woodland Beach Volunteers, Rescue-Fire EMS-Marine." The patch is shield-shaped with a red and gold border.

First Patch for the Woodland Beach VFD

A New Era at the Edgewater Volunteer Fire Department

Learn what the department has been doing during the 2000-2024

New Era