08/02/2026
November 11, 1987
In the early morning hours of November 11, 1987, firefighters were dispatched to a house fire at 38 Split Rock Road on Stag Hill. Upon arrival, crews found a two-story home heavily involved in fire, with flames already venting through the roof and windows. The second floor would eventually collapse, and firefighters battled the blaze for nearly eight hours before it was brought under control. Chief Howard Livingston later described it as one of the worst fires Mahwah had experienced in years.
This fire presented challenges that are still familiar to Company 5 today. Located high on Stag Hill, the area had no hydrants, limited access, and a narrow dirt road leading to the scene. Water supply and access were major obstacles, requiring determination, teamwork, and long hours in difficult conditions. Company 5 continues to specialize in tanker and drafting operations because of these unique challenges.
Among the Company 5 firefighters remembered from that night are Leo, Dave, Morris, and Barry, members who answered the call when their community needed them most. Their efforts, along with those of every firefighter on scene, helped protect neighboring homes and bring a devastating fire under control.
While this newspaper clipping only captures a single moment in time, one detail stands out: a firefighter can clearly be seen wearing a coat marked “MFD CO 2.” That serves as a reminder that this was not just a Company 5 fire. Like countless incidents before and after, firefighters from across Mahwah came together to help one another when the alarm sounded.
Although we may not know the names of every firefighter who responded that morning, we want to recognize and thank the members of Company 2 and all of the other Mahwah fire companies who assisted. The strength of the Mahwah Fire Department has always been that no company stands alone. When one company needs help, the others answer.
Today, nearly 40 years later, this clipping remains more than a photograph. It is a reminder of the firefighters who came before us, the challenges they faced, and the tradition of service they passed down to future generations.
To all the firefighters who answered the alarm on November 11, 1987—thank you. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to protecting Mahwah will not be forgotten.
Preserving the history of Company 5, one story at a time. 🚒
