Our History

Our little Fire Department on the hill was established in 1863 before Nevada became a state. With the discovery of Gold and Silver on the Comstock, many people made their way to Nevada for the Gold and Silver Rush. With the population growing, mining camps became small towns. Located between Virginia City and the processing mills along the Carson River is the town of Silver City. Established in 1859, and named for the silver deposits discovered in the area. Many passed through Silver City on their way up the hill to stake their claim. Hotels, saloons and horse stables were soon built with the growing community. With a growing town, fire danger grew with it. In the 1870s after a big fire in town, Silver City’s fire protection exploded. Numerous fire companies were created. Later, a hydrant system was installed which helped firefighting efforts. In 1901 the town purchased the wooden station that is still standing in its original location on SR 342. Today, the current fire station on High Street houses our Type I fire engine, our Type III brush truck, our rescue squad and our parade truck. It is still 100% volunteer run, just like when it was established in 1863.

“Silver City Volunteers, doing it for free, since 1863”

Our Firefighters

Silver City Volunteer Firefighters are all risk firefighters. They respond to many types of emergencies at all hours of the day. Every firefighter goes through a complete training course to get certified as a State Firefighter I or II. Many take additional classes to become specifically certified for other types of incidents. All of our Firefighters are CPR First Aid trained, and may expand their medical training to an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Our Firefighters are trained in structural firefighting, wild-land firefighting, hazardous materials, and other emergency specialty rescues (swift water, low-angle, and confined space). With the growth of the surrounding communities, Silver City Volunteers are a group of highly trained and motivated volunteers that are keeping up with the increase in emergency calls. We are part of the Central Lyon County Fire District and are an integral component of the professional quality of emergency service that residents in the district have come to expect.

Support Members

Our support members are invaluable. These members do not need to respond to emergencies, but are essential in helping our organization function. Support members have many different roles and anyone can be a support member.

Join Us

If you’re interested in becoming a part of our organization, stop by and inquire. Our meetings are every Monday night at 6:00 pm. No experience is required. All training will be provided. Click on the Contact Us link, or stop by the fire station at 745 High Street for more information.