History of Ambulance Services

1865-1955

The Birth of Ambulance Services and Rise of Modern Emergency Response

The concept of an “ambulance” began long before flashing lights and radios.

1865–1869: The U.S. Army created the first organized ambulance corps during the Civil War, and within a few years, Cincinnati and New York City rolled out horse-drawn carriages for civilian use.
1899–1906: The first motorized ambulances hit the streets, capable of a thrilling 16 miles per hour.
1920s–1930s: The first volunteer rescue squads formed in Virginia and New Jersey — precursors to modern community-based EMS.
1940s: World War II strained hospitals, forcing police and fire departments to assume ambulance duties. Training was minimal, and ambulance work was often assigned as punishment.

By the 1940s, hospitals and city departments manage ambulance transport, though training is minimal and often considered a punishment assignment.

Helicopters are used for medical evacuations in Korea in 1951. Just a few years later, in 1955, the Montrose Minute Men are officially founded — one of Pennsylvania’s earliest volunteer EMS organizations dedicated to providing prompt, compassionate care to local residents.

History of The Montrose Minute Men

Since 1955, our team has proudly served the people of Susquehanna County with dedication, compassion, and skill. What began as a small group of volunteers determined to make a difference has grown into a trusted emergency medical service — one that our neighbors know they can count on in life’s most critical moments.

Over the decades, we’ve seen the landscape of emergency care change, but our mission has stayed the same: to protect, serve, and care for our community. From the first radio calls of the 1950s to today’s advanced life support units, our commitment to delivering high-quality emergency medical care and safe, reliable transport has never wavered.

1960's - 1970's

Innovation & Education

Nationwide EMS standards begin forming. CPR and defibrillation techniques are developed, and public awareness grows thanks to media like “Emergency!” In 1973, Congress passed the EMS Systems Act, funding 300 regional EMS systems nationwide.

1980's - 1990's

The Birth of Ambulance Services and Rise of Modern Emergency Response

New regulations like the Voluntary Ambulance Service Certification (VASC) and national EMS education standards enhance training and accountability. The Minute Men continue upgrading equipment and training to meet the growing demand for emergency care. The Minute Men adopted new national standards and became certified responders. New training programs and lifesaving equipment transformed our small local squad into a fully capable emergency service.

1990's - 2000's

Community Centered Care

From emergency response to non-emergency transport, the Montrose Minute Men serve thousands of residents each year with modern equipment, licensed paramedics, and a continuing spirit of volunteerism and compassion.

Today

The Montrose Minute Men proudly serve our community each and every day — from answering emergency calls and providing lifesaving care, to supporting local events, offering safety education, and standing by our neighbors in moments of need. Today and always, we’re here for you — dedicated to protecting, serving, and strengthening Montrose and the surrounding area.