As we continue honoring incredible women in local history for Women's History Month, today we focus on the Monterey Fire Department. What's missing from the top historic photos? Women. The Monterey Fire Department has been serving the citizens of Monterey since 1882 when the first brigade was established by a group of citizens to render aid as fires occurred. The fire department was chartered by the City in 1890; that is when it officially came under the City and Chief William E. Parker was appointed its first fire chief. Chief Parker would go on to become the oldest fire chief in the nation, serving in the position of fire chief from 1890 until his retirement in 1942.
Fast forward over fifty years, and you can see the fire profession has made great strides in attracting women to this important career choice. Today, the Monterey Fire Department is proud to have four women firefighters on staff, and the first female Deputy Fire Marshall in the department's history. Additionally noteworthy are the dedicated women in Monterey Fire administration. Prior to 2010, there were only a total of three other women that have worked line positions in the history of the department. Congratulations to all of these women for their commitment and service to the community. Thank you for all your recent work in helping the community get vaccinated!
