Frederick Town, as with most towns and cities in the 1700's and early 1800's had tremendous difficulty dealing with fire. Most buildings were wood and public water systems were non-existent.

            Historians have indicated that primitive fire companies were organized as early as 1760, but names are unknown and information is very scarce. 

            Early historic records disclose that the Town Council passed an ordinance designating the Town of Frederick into 4 fire wards or districts.   They were called Friendship, Union Ward, Frederick Hose Co., and Sun Fire Co.   All male residents of each respective ward were to be held responsible for the prevention of fires, and the extinguishing of the same.   Each man had to supply himself with a bucket and a sack or bag, because at that time there were no other methods of suppressing fires. 

            Experience dictated that serious fires could not be stopped by these inefficient and outmoded methods.   Buck brigades were not sufficient for the needs of a growing town such as Frederick. 

            The concern of citizens about the conditions just mentioned is the reason for the founding of the Junior Fire Company No. 2.   Taking the big step to form the Juniors had been in the back of men's minds for some time, but it was not until late in November, 1838 that the enthusiasm reached the peak necessary to proceed with these new ideas. 

            The new Company took charge of the Old Friendship Fire Engine from Ward 1 and organized in City Hall the "Young Men's Fire Co."   The petitioned individuals, insurance companies, and the City Council for funds. 

            The first meeting in late November, 1838 was held in Dr. Mantz's drugstore on the corner of Market and Patrick Streets in Frederick, with the Company's founders present.