History

Gratis Fire Department has its roots in the early 20th century being founded in 1901. Back in its early days consisting of only a bucket brigade. 

Formed in 2024, the Shawnee Fire District was created through a merger of the Gratis Fire Department and West Elkton Gratis Township Fire District. After several years of combined operations of the 2 independent agencies, a merger made sense for the community and the responders alike, saving on duplicate costs and duplication of effort for all parties involved.