Fire was a constant problem in Tipton. All the buildings in the business district were frame which burned rapidly once a fire started. Disastrous fires occurred in 1868, and 1874. The 1868 fire destroyed about 1/3 of the business district, from the present Hotel Tipton east. November 2, 1874, the portion of the business district west of the Hotel burned. Destroyed were the Hasell House, a photography studio, Christopher livery stable, J. Schmidt's business establishment, and several other buildings.
Because fires were such a problem, a fire company for Tipton was a matter of grave concern. In 1886 Tipton 'purchased a used, hand-operated fire pump for $125 in Jefferson City. The Tipton Times duly reported on this new equipment:
The fire engine and hook and ladder truck were run out of the engine house last Saturday night for the first time since the arrival of the new hose and a trial was made at operating them. The engine does splendidly. It easily throws a stream of water through a 5/8 inch nozzle fifty feet into the air, which will put it on the top of any house in town. The hook and ladder truck is a beauty and is completely equipped with all necessary tools and appliances for resisting the destructive element. A brief trial with the ladders demonstrated the correctness of The 'Times' position that through drilling is essential to an efficient use of the apparatus.
A Hook and Ladder company having been organized we next need volunteers for an engine company. Then there should be frequent practice and drilling to familiarize the members of the companies with their several duties to secure the best success with the machinery. This will afford healthy and entertaining recreation for the coming summer evenings. The mayor has signified his intentions of consulting with the firemen in regard to the appointment of a fire chief with the view of securing someone with whom they will co-operate harmoniously. We regard that as a very wise determination, as it is very essential that the firemen have confidence and respect for the chief to enable him to handle the force to the best advantage. As yet we have heard no intimation as to who he may be.
Tipton Hook and Lumber Co. met at the council room Tuesday the following officers were elected: C.M. Randell of the Times office, captain; Joe Dritt, 1st assistant; Jos. Dueber, 2nd assistant; J.P. Stephenson, secretary; Jno. Schmidt, treasurer; R.F. Addy, fore-man; C.M. Randell, Joe Dritt, D.F. Johnson and W.J. Sharp committee.