PHOTOS: Tucked in the heart of downtown Charleston is a lasting landmark: Charleston Fire Department Station 2/3, or Central Station. Built in 1887, the historic station is not only a functioning part of Charleston’s emergency response system but also a living piece of history.
Charleston has faced many disasters throughout its history, including fires, earthquakes, tornadoes, and hurricanes. In 1698, a devastating fire tore through the settlement of Charles Town. In response, the government established a night watch, taxed property owners to fund the purchase of firefighting equipment, and mandated that chimneys be constructed from brick or stone. Despite these measures, fires continued to be a problem in the city in 1700, 1740, and the 1770s. Volunteer fire companies were established in the first half of the 19th century. Property owners had the option to purchase a membership to receive firefighting services.
