North Charlotte Today

In the early days of Charlotte, even before it was officially chartered, Black firefighters played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the community. Known as the Neptunes, these brave individuals were dedicated to protecting family homes and businesses from the devastation of fire. They faced numerous challenges and adversities, but their commitment to their duty remained unwavering.

Before the formation of the Charlotte Fire Department in 1875, volunteers and slaves would assemble at the town square to find out the location of a fire and rush to extinguish it. These bucket brigades were inadequate for the growing town, and the need for more coordinated fire protection became evident.

It wasn't until after the Civil War and the end of slavery that Black men were given the opportunity to become volunteer firefighters. The earliest documented mention of Black volunteer firefighters in Charlotte was in May 1873, when the "Yellow Jacket (colored) Fire Company of Charlotte" participated in a fireman's festival in South Carolina.

Through their continued efforts, two African American fire companies were formed - the Yellow Jackets and the Dreadnaughts. The City of Charlotte provided them with supplies, facilities, and equipment, including a hand-pumper nicknamed "Crazy Hannah." Despite its reputation for being unreliable, the Yellow Jackets made good use of it.

The African American firefighters of Charlotte were highly regarded in the community for their dedication and bravery. The Charlotte News praised them in April 1875, stating, "Few, probably none of the members own any real estate or houses of their own, yet like good citizens they do all in their power to save the houses of others." This recognition prompted the city to acquire a more reliable fire engine for the Yellow Jackets, which led to a change in their name to Neptune No. 3.

On May 20, 1875, the Charlotte Fire Department was officially formed, and the Neptunes became one of the four firefighting units chosen to comprise the department. Being a firefighter offered Black men some relief from the oppressive impacts of racism and provided them with an opportunity to bond and draw strength from one another.

One notable volunteer firefighter was Lt. Col. Charles Samuel Lafayette Alexander Taylor, who served as an Alderman on the City's Board of Aldermen and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of the Third Regiment. His legacy and dedication to the community are remembered, as he is buried at the Elmwood Pinewood Cemetery in Charlotte.

It took another 60 years for the Charlotte Fire Department to hire its first Black firefighter, Hazel E. Erwin, in 1967. Since then, the department has made strides in diversifying its ranks. In 2018, Reginald T. Johnson became the city's first Black fire chief, marking a significant milestone in the department's history.

To honor the legacy of Black firefighters in Charlotte and support underrepresented firefighters, the Fraternal Order of Progressive Firefighters was established in 1984. It has since evolved into the Neptune Fire Society of Charlotte, which aims to enhance the legacy of Black Charlotte firefighters and empower the communities they serve.

The Neptune pumper, a symbol of determination and perseverance, now rests at the headquarters of the Charlotte Fire Department. It serves as a testament to the long and proud journey of Black firefighters in Charlotte, who have overcome challenges and made significant contributions to the safety and well-being of the community.

"We want to support and empower underrepresented firefighters as well as the communities we serve," said Charlotte Fire Engineer Venessa Roy, president of Neptune Fire Society Charlotte.

The history of Black firefighters in Charlotte is a reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Their legacy continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations of firefighters, ensuring that the spirit of the Neptunes lives on.