Our History and Fire Chiefs

Our History

The Baker Heights Volunteer Fire Department (BHVFD) is a cornerstone of fire protection and community service in Berkeley County, West Virginia. Since its establishment in 1975, the department has evolved from humble beginnings into a modern, well-equipped fire service organization.

Founding and Early Years (1975-1980)

BHVFD was founded by charter members George Mulligan, Roger Keefe, Jim Keefe, and Calvin Sprinkle. Initially housed in "Mr. Barney’s" barn—on the current site of 84 Lumber—the department began its mission to protect the Baker Heights community. The first fire engines included two vintage Ford fire engines and a "Deuce and a Half" tanker.

In 1975, a 1963 American LaFrance fire engine was purchased from Baltimore City, Maryland, for $1,500. Painted in white over Omaha orange, this unique color combination became the signature paint scheme of the BHVFD. Soon after, Harold Catrowe spearheaded the construction of the station located at 2229 Charles Town Road, which opened its doors in 1976.

Expansion and Modernization (1980-2000)

The department’s first new fire engine, Engine 61—a 1980 Chevrolet/American LaFrance—was placed into service in 1980. In 1989, BHVFD introduced the first enclosed cab engine in Berkeley County: Engine 64, a 1978/1988 Seagrave/Pierce hybrid affectionately named the "Seapierce."

The 1990s marked significant advancements, including the purchase of the department's first extrication system, "The Phoenix Tool," in 1990. In 1995, a versatile International/KME Engine Tanker 63 was placed into service and continues to serve the community.

Entering the 21st Century (2001-Present)

In 2001, BHVFD made history by placing the county’s first rescue engine into service: a Freightliner FL112/KME designated Rescue Engine 64. This was followed by the acquisition of two sister Pierce Dash engines in 2004, which replaced older apparatus and remain active today.

The department diversified its capabilities with the introduction of specialized units, including ATV 60 in 2007 and Air Unit 60 in 2008, to address unique emergency situations. Significant milestones include the purchase of a 2017 Rosenbauer engine, which became the department’s new Engine 61, and the addition of Boat 60 in 2019 for water rescues.

In 2022, the department achieved a long-awaited goal with the completion of its state-of-the-art primary station at 36 Danbury Lane. This new facility provides enhanced capacity and modern amenities while retaining the station at 2229 Charles Town Road as a sub-station.

Community Engagement and Growth

BHVFD continues to engage the community through events like the annual Cash Bash, launched in 2017. These efforts, coupled with strategic planning and equipment modernization, have solidified the department's role as a leader in emergency services.

Fire Chief History

The legacy of the Baker Heights VFD is deeply intertwined with the dedication and leadership of its fire chiefs.

• 1975-1976: George Mulligan – Founding leader and inaugural fire chief.
• 1976-1978: Ike Dood – Expanded the department’s capacity.
• 1978-1987: Kenny Clohon – Guided the department through a decade of growth.
• 1987-1991: Greg Noll – Fostered operational improvements.
• 1991: Ronnie Turner Jr. – Provided transitional leadership.
• 1991-2001: Chuck Summers – A decade of steady progress and modernization.
• 2001-2003: Bill Summers – Continued the Summers family’s commitment to excellence.
• 2003-2021: Martin Roberts – Oversaw significant departmental advancements and modernization.
• 2021-2024: Cory Roberts – Building on tradition, fostering innovation, and leading the department into a new era.
• 2025-Present: Tim Potts

Commitment to Service

The Baker Heights Volunteer Fire Department remains steadfast in its mission to protect lives and property through dedicated service, advanced training, and community outreach. From its origins in a barn to a state-of-the-art facility, BHVFD's history is a testament to resilience, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to the Baker Heights community.