The History of the Blount County Fire Protection District
Established 1948
Established 1948
Our HistoryA Private Beginning (1948–1981)The roots of the Blount County Fire Department trace back to 1948. Founded by Chief William Leon "Jack" Huffstetler, the department originally operated as a privately owned, subscription-based service for the residents of Blount County.
The Transition to Public Utility (1982)A pivotal shift occurred in 1982 when, at Chief Huffstetler’s request, the department was chartered by the State of Tennessee as a non-profit public utility. In a remarkable act of civic generosity, Chief Huffstetler donated the entire operation—including all stations, trucks, and equipment—to the newly formed Blount County Fire Protection District (BCFPD).
Did You Know? BCFPD holds a unique distinction: it was the first, and remains the only, Utility District Fire Department in the State of Tennessee.
Growth & Modernization (1983–Present)Following the transition, Chief Robert "Bob" McCammon took the helm, leading the district through years of expansion. Though he retired at the end of 1997, Chief McCammon’s dedication was so great that he continued to serve the department as a volunteer for several years afterward.
In 1998, the district reached another milestone with the promotion of Doug McClanahan to Chief. Chief McClanahan made history as the department’s first full-time, paid Fire Chief.
As of February 2026, the department continues its mission of service under the leadership of Chief Butch Campbell.
The Transition to Public Utility (1982)A pivotal shift occurred in 1982 when, at Chief Huffstetler’s request, the department was chartered by the State of Tennessee as a non-profit public utility. In a remarkable act of civic generosity, Chief Huffstetler donated the entire operation—including all stations, trucks, and equipment—to the newly formed Blount County Fire Protection District (BCFPD).
Did You Know? BCFPD holds a unique distinction: it was the first, and remains the only, Utility District Fire Department in the State of Tennessee.
Growth & Modernization (1983–Present)Following the transition, Chief Robert "Bob" McCammon took the helm, leading the district through years of expansion. Though he retired at the end of 1997, Chief McCammon’s dedication was so great that he continued to serve the department as a volunteer for several years afterward.
In 1998, the district reached another milestone with the promotion of Doug McClanahan to Chief. Chief McClanahan made history as the department’s first full-time, paid Fire Chief.
As of February 2026, the department continues its mission of service under the leadership of Chief Butch Campbell.