S.A.F.P.D. History
South Arkansas Fire Protection District was founded in the early 1960's by the head of the Masonic Order, George W. Koenig. George was a prominent public figure and enjoyed working in and being a part of the community. Around 1963, or 1965, a fire outside of the city limits spurred a local controversy. The Salida City Council declared that areas not within the city limits were not entitled to any form of fire protection.
At the time, Mr. Koenig lived across the highway and outside of the Salida city limits. Motivated by the need to protect his family and his investments, George organized a group of friends and neighbors. With the help of Fire Chief Woody Bennett, managed to annex the outlying areas of the city and form their own district. As a result, the South Arkansas Fire District was formed.
Koenig continued to generate money for S.A.F.P.D. and eventually purchased and remodeled the Skelly Service Station next to the First Street Cafe. With the money he raised, they were also able to order a new fire truck. George was then made President of S.A.F.P.D. He continued to put his energy and resources into the District, purchasing new and necessary equipment and maintaining the building. The result of his efforts can be seen at work today, protecting Salida and keeping her citizens safe.
Click here to read the complete George W. Koenig interview.
At the time, Mr. Koenig lived across the highway and outside of the Salida city limits. Motivated by the need to protect his family and his investments, George organized a group of friends and neighbors. With the help of Fire Chief Woody Bennett, managed to annex the outlying areas of the city and form their own district. As a result, the South Arkansas Fire District was formed.
Koenig continued to generate money for S.A.F.P.D. and eventually purchased and remodeled the Skelly Service Station next to the First Street Cafe. With the money he raised, they were also able to order a new fire truck. George was then made President of S.A.F.P.D. He continued to put his energy and resources into the District, purchasing new and necessary equipment and maintaining the building. The result of his efforts can be seen at work today, protecting Salida and keeping her citizens safe.
Click here to read the complete George W. Koenig interview.
