Jarchau Fire Department celebrates 130 years: A celebration of tradition and future!

Jarchau Fire Department celebrates 130 years: A celebration of tradition and future!

A very special celebration was celebrated in the heart of Jarchau on November 8, 2025: the fire department celebrated its 130th anniversary. The tool shed, a symbol of the community, became the setting for an event that not only brought back memories of the past, but also opened up new perspectives for the future. Local fire chief Marco Wetzel welcomed the guests with motivating words and enjoyed the achievements of his comrades. Despite all the celebrations, the firefighters are also looking forward to the challenges of the next few years.

The history of the Jarchau fire department has its origins in a major fire that raged in the Kossattenhof in 1890. As a result of this disaster, the fire department was founded and has since taken on an important role in community life. Originally equipped with a suction syringe that was added in 1895, the fire department's equipment has improved significantly over the years. Historically, the fire department has been an integral part of firefighting, dating back to Roman times, where the first fire departments were formed from slaves according to Wikipedia.

Recognition of deserving members

During the celebration, numerous deserving members were honored for their many years of commitment. Hermann Wetzel received the level six pin for over 60 years of service, while Karl Zabel was awarded the Stendal District Fire Brigade Association Badge of Honor in bronze. Another special moment was the awarding of the youth fire department's badge of honor to Michaela Wetzel, who has been a member of the fire department for almost 40 years. Such honors illustrate how important camaraderie and voluntary commitment within the fire department are.

A thank you also went to the local mayor Heiko Wichmann, who praised the valuable work of the volunteers. “It is impressive how the fire department successfully builds bridges between young and old in Jarchau,” said Wichmann.
Volksstimme reportsthat the youth fire department in particular, which has been taking part in competitions regularly since 1999, benefits from the enthusiasm and dedication of its supervisors and members. The children's and youth fire department also has its own room in the newly built fire station, which has provided more space since 2015.

Investments in the future

Marco Wetzel also emphasizes how important investments in training and prevention are. “We need to continue to develop new ideas and adapt,” he said. The fire department is not only a place for learning, but also a platform for personal development and community building. The presents, which were handed over to the children's and youth fire department by Pastor Janette Obara, symbolize the support that these groups receive in the community.

In Jarchau, the fire department can look back on a long tradition that is characterized by courage, commitment and a strong sense of community. It is not only a security-relevant organ, but also a place where friendships are formed and cross-generational bonds are strengthened. Such solidarity is particularly valuable in times when the challenges in fire protection are constantly increasing. A white smoke fills the air, but in Jarchau the fire department has a strong foundation on which it can continue to grow. Keep your eyes open for the next events!