When businessman J.A. Moreman sat down to breakfast June 14, 1887, little did he imagine he would be sitting down to dinner as Plano's first Fire Chief. With its offer of service approved by the Plano City Council that evening, the Eclipse Fire Company became the city's first recognized fire suppression service with Moreman appointed to the helm.

Following three major fires that had repeatedly devastated the economic heart of Plano, effective and consistent fire service was foremost in the minds of the merchants, residents and local farmers who recognized it as critical to the success of their fledgling community. Today that community is home to over 266,000 residents and is an international economic destination.

As you enjoy this 125th anniversary pictorial celebration of the department you will embark upon a journey that will begin with early bucket brigades armed only with wooden ladders, determination and well water.

You'll travel through the evolution from horse-drawn to horse-powered equipment, arriving at today's department, the only ISO Class 1 fire department in the world that holds the international accreditations in both fire suppression and ambulance service.

Black and white and color photos illustrate the department's storied past.