Who We Are

In 1957, Dwight B. Callaway, Charles N. Clark, and W.A. Sigmon recognized the need for a local fire department and took the initiative to establish the Denver Volunteer Fire Department. They filed a set of Articles of Incorporation with the North Carolina Secretary of State to formalize its existence.

Over the years, our all-volunteer fire department has transformed into one of the largest non-profit combination fire departments in North Carolina. With the guidance of the aforementioned individuals, alongside our dedicated fire department management staff and board of directors, we have continuously adapted to meet the evolving needs of our community.

Since its establishment in 1957, the most significant factor driving our growth has been the presence of Lake Norman. In 1963, Duke Power, Inc. flooded the lake to supply water to one of their nuclear power plants located on NC Highway 73. Our fire department is responsible for protecting 36 miles of the lake’s 520-mile shoreline.

Back in 1957, most of the homes in our community were modest, ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 square feet. However, with the emergence of Lake Norman, the homes we now protect are often over 14,000 square feet, with substantial price tags. Consequently, the property values in our district have steadily increased.

In the early days, our volunteers faced financial challenges to maintain the fire department’s operation. Some of our older members recall responding to a fire call and then personally covering the cost of refueling the trucks at a service station before returning them to the station. The founders of the Denver Volunteer Fire Department not only had vision, but they also made personal sacrifices to ensure public safety.

Today, with an estimated property value exceeding $4.4 billion, our fire department has constructed a large administrative and operational fire station on NC Highway 16. Additionally, we have established two operational substations and maintain a fire boat at the waterfront of Lake Norman.

As you can see, our fire department has grown in tandem with the development of our community. With the forward-thinking guidance of our board of directors and fire department management, we remain committed to anticipating future growth and staying one step ahead.