City of Thomasville

City of Thomasville Municipal Water Report Info

The City of Thomasville was initially established as Thomas' Depot, named after founder John W. Thomas. Founded in 1852 and incorporated in 1857, Thomasville grew along transportation routes with railway lines running through its center. By the late 1800s, the city adopted a Mayor-Council governance model, and by 1915, Thomasville had developed essential infrastructure including a volunteer fire department, a four-officer police force, and municipal water, sewer, and electricity services.

Fire Department History
Thomasville's Fire Department began in 1907 with volunteer firefighters. By 1909, the city purchased four hand-siphon fire hose reels operated by forty volunteers positioned throughout the city. Fire hydrants were installed around 1912, with the first fire engine acquired in 1922. Over 108 years later, the department has evolved into a highly trained service with four strategically located stations, employing 63 professionals who provide 24/7 fire protection and respond to approximately 1,000 service calls annually.

Recent Developments
The department added a fourth station in 2004 while relocating an existing one, optimizing coverage across the city. Improvements in training, equipment, and emergency response capabilities have continued over the years, including the creation of specialized teams and the implementation of advanced safety protocols.

Leadership & Recognition
In 1994, under Chief Cranford and Assistant Chiefs Mark Reece and David Smoot, the city earned a Class 3 rating from the Insurance Services Office, improving from its previous Class 4 rating—an achievement held by only a few North Carolina municipalities. Martin Dailey succeeded Chief Cranford in 1997 and continues to lead the department today.

Recent Initiatives
In 2017, the department established an Emergency Management Division, implemented the Nixle emergency notification system, developed a Severe Weather Program with Weather Spotters, earned Storm Ready designation from the National Weather Service, and launched an Emergency Communications plan with IPAWS. The department has also received Heavy Rescue and Medical Responder certifications from the NC Association of Rescue and EMS, enhancing its life-saving capabilities.