In the late 1800's, after Thomas Brown laid out Brownsville, the borough decided to appoint a safety committee to inspect chimneys, stovepipes, ovens and other fire hazards. In 1822, the borough council saw the need for fire protection and in turn purchased 6 ladders, 3 hooks and 1 ten foot length of chain. In 1827, a volunteer fire company was organized followed by the purchase of a Cooper Patient Rotative Engine for $290 by the borough council in 1830. The truck pumped 100 gallons/minute and used 8 men to do the pumping. The company, also having a fire wagon decided to lease a building to house their equipment in 1833. From 1851-1883 several semi-organized fire companies tried and failed in the borough, so the only fire protection consisted of the Monongahela River and a few fire pumps. Then in 1910, Brownsville Fire Company #1 was granted a charter, with the first record of a fire being in April of that year. In September the fire department joined the Pennsylvania Fire Association.

May 1911 - The company held it's first Memorial Day Service and in October the steam whistle was placed on Lock 5, the company found in unsatisfactory and not loud enough though.

March 1914 - The Relief Association was founded and in September a new municipal fire building was placed at North Bend. October found the company holding its first parade for the opening of the Inter-County Bridge.

July 1923 - The first Kennywood Picnic was held by the fire company where they made$147.

1925 - The first 3 company memorial services were held with Brownville Fire Company #1, South Brownsville Fire Company and West Brownsville Fire Company in attendance.

March 1928 - A coded whistle system was placed in the town.

1932 - The gas lights were removed from the firehouse and replaced with electricity.

July 1934 - North Brownsville and South Brownsville joined into one borough but the fire departments themselves did not merge.

June 1936 - Fire alarm boxes were put into service and a new whistle was installed.

December 1937 - Bells were installed into the homes of the Chief and Assistant Chief.

January 1938 - The company purchased their first fog nozzles.

June 1939 - Brownsville Fire Company #1 joined the Fayette County Fireman's Association.

May/June 1940 - BINGO was started by the company and they received permission to use blue lights for fireman responding to calls.

February 1946 - The borough council gave each company $500 plus they paid for their gas and oil.