[3] At the turn of the twentieth century, the threat of fire was constant in what was then a prosperous mining town.

[2] The construction of the fire station was started in 1898 and completed in 1899, using plans made by architect C. K.

[4] The total cost of the building at the time was just over $20,000, including architectural work, stonework, and carpentry.

[2] The building was used in various ways, including rooms for summer repertory performers at the nearby Calumet Theatre.

[4] The building was originally constructed with the first floor housing fire engines and horses,[4] with other equipment in the basement.