AVFD History

The Arcata Volunteer Fire Department was formed on January 24, 1884 as Arcata Fire Company #1. On February 14, 1884, the organization changed its name and became the Arcata Hook and Ladder Co. #1. In 1902, it changed it's name again and became the Arcata Fire Department. On January 21, 1927, the organization incorporated as the Arcata Fire Department Company. We finally became the Arcata Volunteer Fire Department on July 6, 1954. Today, the Arcata Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. is a charitable I.R.C. 501(c)(3) not-for-profit California corporation which assists the Arcata Fire Protection District in carrying out its mission by providing personnel.  AVFD is also very active in the community, supporting a number of civic events.