Part of the Armstrong County Warning Set Up, the department is connected with all 26 companies in the county which as a main base station in the sheriff's office in Kittanning and one at the Schenley office in Leechburg. A base set is installed at the fire hall and mobile units are mounted on each truck.

A mortgage-burning ceremony was held by the department in 1957 and since that time they have continued to improve their building and equipment.

Several acres adjacent to the fire department property were purchased in 1964 and in 1968 an addition was made to the fire hall. Approximately 30 by 60 feet, the new addition has hardwood floors and is used for social functions sponsored by the department.

Providing fire protection for Elderton, Atwood, Shelocta, South Bend Twp and Plumcreek Twp., they are financed through contributions and fund-raising activities.

A street fair held this year the week of June 21, was a major boost to the finances of the fire company. Consisting of a carnival, free square dancing, band concerts, mini-tractor pulling contests, pony pulling contests and many other activities, the fair is a big part of the fire department's fund-raising projects each year. As of yet no date has been set for next year's fair, but plans are already forming in the minds of the firemen.

On September 4 of this year, the Elderton Fire Department will begin sponsoring square dances at the fire hall. The dances will be every other Saturday night with music being provided by the Johnny Nesbit orchestra. Refreshments will be provided for these dances by members of the auxiliary.

Valued at $65,000, the department presently consists of a 1955 GMC 740 Pumper, a 1971 GMC Tanker and a 1968 GMC Brush Truck. In additon they have an adequate supply of special equipment necessary to aid them in combating major fires.

After eight years as fire chief in Elderton, Paul Rupert knows it takes more than one man to make an efficient fire department function properly. He sums up his feelings this way, "The continued growth of the Elderton Volunteer Fire Company depends on the citizens of the area, our annual firemen's fair, the Ladies Auxiliary and recruitment of young members for the service of the fire company."