Round Rock Volunteer Fire Department
historical marker
The Round Rock Volunteer Fire Department has a history rooted in community response to significant fires. In 1879, a fire destroyed ten buildings in Round Rock's "New Town." This event highlighted the need for better fire protection. Following this, new buildings were constructed with slanted roofs and cisterns to collect rainwater for firefighting. In 1883, Round Rock College also burned. After a year of planning and fundraising, the community established the Round Rock Fire Department in 1884. Six years later, in 1890, the department acquired a used hand pumper, believed to be from Austin, which remained in service until approximately 1923. The department was initially all-volunteer. In 1978, the Round Rock Fire Department hired its first paid firefighter. Women also served as firefighters in Round Rock, continuing as a group until 1971. During World War II, a "Girls Pumper Team" was formed to compete in pumper races. The Round Rock Volunteer Fire Department was eventually dissolved in 2007, with the Round Rock Fire Department assuming its protection duties. This historical marker, located in Williamson County, Texas, was erected in 1984 by the Texas Historical Commission, commemorating the department's century of service.