Our Heritage

Fall Branch Volunteer Fire Department was chartered in May 1952. In those early days, a dedicated handful of members gathered at Sampson’s store and answered calls with a single 1926 Seagrave pumper truck. George Bacon served as our first chief, paving the way for leaders including Elmer Sampson, Dwight Carr, Jimmy Dawson, Roger Phillips, and our current Chief, James Dawson.

In April 1972, the department underwent a key reorganization. A seven-member Board of Directors was elected, and formal bylaws were established to guide operations for generations to come.

Growth continued steadily. In February 1974, we purchased land for our future home, and construction on the original fire hall began in November 1975. That same year, we joined forces with neighboring departments—Gray, Limestone, Sulphur Springs, Embreeville, Jonesborough, and Nolichuckey—to form the Washington County Volunteer Fire Department Association. This collaboration strengthened our ability to acquire equipment and train together for the benefit of the entire region.

A major milestone came on August 17, 2006, with the groundbreaking for our current state-of-the-art fire station at 106 Ruritan Road in Fall Branch. The new facility spans nearly 14,000 square feet total, including 7,000 square feet of living quarters, providing a modern hub for our operations

Today, we proudly maintain approximately 35 active firefighters, supported by dedicated staff. Our coverage area spans roughly 107 square miles across Washington and Greene Counties—including 9 miles of Interstate 81. Our fleet includes 2 engines, 1 tanker, 2 brush units, 1 medical first responder truck, 1 utility/personnel truck, and 1 multi-purpose trailer—equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies.

We owe much of our success to our lifetime members, whose unwavering service, dedication, and innovative spirit—especially in the challenging early years—built the strong foundation we stand on today. To these valued members, we extend our deepest thanks. --->

As Fall Branch and our surrounding communities continue to grow and thrive, so does our commitment to serve. We remain dedicated to protecting lives and property with honor and heart—always ready when duty calls. Thank you for your ongoing support; together, we make a lasting difference.