The South River Fire Department was organized on February 24, 1896 and was composed of the Protection Hook & Ladder Company and the Washington Hose Company. Each company was composed of thirty-five men.

The first firehouse was located on Ferry Street, but the headquarters moved to the Borough Hall on Main Street in 1909. The two companies united in 1921 to form Engine Company No. 1 and three years later the headquarters moved to their current home on George Street.