● About
our history
In November 1934, a fire that destroyed an office building during the rebuilding of the Orr’s – Great Island bridge was the impetus for creating the Orr’s Island Fire Dept. Organized by Captain Charles Morrill, he raised the funds for equipment and recruited the first volunteers, who were mainly lobstermen and fishermen. In 1941 the Orr’s Island Fire Department incorporated, with William Sylvester as its first chief.
The Bailey Island department was organized in 1937 by Phillip Johnson and Dr. Franklin Smith, who became Chief and Lieutenant respectively. For many years, the two departments financed themselves primarily through their own fundraising via bake sales and lobster stew suppers. In December 1986 the two departments combined to form today’s Orr’s and Bailey Islands Fire Department.
neighbors helping neighbors
● A History of Service
a message from our fire chief
2026 marks the 40th year of the Orr’s & Bailey Islands Fire Department, and that history goes back to the parent departments’ foundation in 1934 for Orr’s Island, and 1937 for Bailey Island. Bailey Island’s first ambulance was placed in service in 1961. All of those years represent generations of pride and service to the community and of commitment to our mission of “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.”
We encourage you to explore how you might fit into that tapestry. Perhaps you've already served or are serving the community. Perhaps you’re a part of the next generation of citizens to serve. If that’s you, please consider filling out an application, ask any of our responders listed on this web site for more information, or set up a time to stop by the station. Become part of “Neighbors Helping Neighbors”, join the OBIFD family.
- Benjamin A. Wallace Jr., Fire & Rescue Chief