IAFF History

February 28, 1918

The IAFF is organized on February 28, 1918, as 36 delegates representing 24 local fire fighter unions convene in Washington, DC. They debate on a name for the new organization, deciding between the International Brotherhood of Fire Fighters and the International Association of Fire Fighters.

Delegates propose publishing a magazine for members, decide the salary of officers set commons goals to live and work with dignity, with care for their safety and concern for their families.

List of All IAFF Conventions →

Thomas G. Spellacy of Schenectady, New York, is elected the first president and William Smith  the first Secretary-Treasurer, neither of whom stay on past 1920. Spellacy compares the formation of the IAFF with Christopher Columbus’ discovery of America.

List of All Principal Officers →

The IAFF adopts 20 resolutions to benefit fire fighters and the fire service, including a two-platoon system, pension laws, automatic sprinkler systems, building inspections and removal of hazards for fire prevention.

Download the 1918 Convention Proceedings →

War-time standards decree that there should be no strikes or lockouts during the war.

Nationwide influenza epidemic incapacitates and kills fire fighters across the United States.

July 1, 1918

The inaugural issue of the International Fire Fighter magazine is published – 10,000 copies are distributed. The cost of a yearly subscription is $1.

Article 11 of the Constitution specifies that the organization shall be non-partisan and shall not promote the candidacy of any person seeking public office.

November 11, 1918

World War I ends. Mechanical engines and pneumatic tires are invented from wartime efforts, creating faster response times.

By the end of 1918, 149 locals had joined the IAFF.