Costa Mesa – From the Archives
Photo series courtesy of Costa Mesa Historical Society
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Before its incorporation in 1953, Costa Mesa relied upon volunteer fire departments for relief from fires. Costa Mesa’s first volunteer fire truck was purchased in 1924 responding to its final call in January 1933. Three years later in March 1936, Costa Mesa’s second volunteer fire department was established. In September 1939, construction of Costa Mesa’s volunteer fire station on Rochester Street was completed. It gave the department their first permanent home which strengthened emergency services for residents. This photo taken in 1947 shows volunteer firefighters conducting hose training near the Santa Ana River at the end of 19th Street. Their commitment to preparedness helped safeguard Costa Mesa during its formative years. Before Costa Mesa incorporated in 1953, the community relied entirely on volunteer firefighters for fire protection. Their dedication helped protect residents for decades and established a tradition of service that continues more than 100 years later. This is the last photo in a series of eight on the CMFD.
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