The first fire department, a hook and ladder company, was established about 1884 when the city authorized the purchase of 200 feet of firehose. The first equipment was a two-wheel cart and hand-drawn hook and ladder truck. The present day department was organized in March 1899 and relied on fund raising and volunteer contributions. In May of 1948 the city took over the financial operation of the department.
The present two story fire station with two bays was built in 1908. It was originally constructed to house horse drawn equipment. It was remodeled in 1918 to accommodate the motor drawn pumper. It was remodeled again in 1958.
Monday through Friday, at noon, you can hear the downtown firehouse sound the alarm, signaling the lunch hour.
The weather vane, a steer with T41 brand, was designed by cattle baron R. A. Houston in the 1870s for his home.
The Gonzales Fire Department is manned by a dedicated group of career firefighters and volunteer firefighters.
