The City of Rhinelander was founded in 1880. In the early years there was no organized fire protection. As Rhinelander began to grow, fire protection became a concern. In 1887 two volunteer fire companies were formed. Hose Company No. 1 and Hook and Ladder No. 1 were created, each company consisted of 25 men. Two years later Hose Company No. 2 was formed, and the first fire station was built. With an increase in the number of fires, two separate fire stations were built in the 1890s. On December 18, 1911 the volunteer fire companies were abolished, and a career paid department was formed.
