Lovelock Volunteer Fire Department marks 101 years with retro sock hop

When flames tore through Lovelock’s commercial district in 1915, residents realized their small community needed more than bucket brigades and good luck. Less than a decade later, on June 2, 1924, 15 charter members formed what was then called the Olfers Engine Company. That group became the Lovelock Volunteer Fire Department (LVFD), and for 101 years its members have answered the call to protect both town and county.

Today the LVFD covers all 6,068 square miles of Pershing County. Its roughly 30 volunteers are cross trained in fire and ambulance service and operate a fleet of 11 vehicles ranging from engines to brush trucks. They respond to an average of 120 calls each year—including structure fires, wildland blazes, and medical emergencies.

The work has not always been easy. In November 2019, an arsonist set three downtown buildings ablaze, destroying the Pershing Pub, Treasures Bookstore, and a law office. That same day, firefighters fought for more than 15 hours to save the historic Lovelock train depot from a second catastrophic fire in its history. Going back further, between 1980 and 2003 nearly 17 percent of Pershing County burned in wildfires, with LVFD at the center of every response.

Despite the challenges, the department’s volunteers continue to give their time and energy for the safety of their neighbors. Now, the community has a chance to give back.

To celebrate its 101st anniversary, the LVFD is throwing a 1950s-style sock hop at the fire station on Friday, Oct. 11. Admission is just $5—or $10 with a burger and fries—and proceeds will go directly to support the department.

The evening promises music, dancing, and plenty of nostalgia. More importantly, it’s a chance for residents to honor the men and women who have stood watch over Lovelock for more than a century.

As the department’s history shows, their work is never done. But on Oct. 11, the hoses and radios will take a back seat to poodle skirts, saddle shoes, and a community ready to swing the night away in support of its hometown heroes.