Our History
On December 18, 1970, two remarkable organizations merged. The Lambertville Ambulance Association (formed in 1927) and the Lambertville Rescue Squad (formed in 1946) joined to become one organization dedicated to providing emergency care to Lambertville, New Hope, and surrounding communities.
Our Origins
The Lambertville Ambulance Association was one of the oldest volunteer ambulance squads in New Jersey. It began in 1914 under the Lambertville Fire Patrol, when local doctors were invited to a demonstration of the Pulmotor, an early artificial respiration device.
Concerned with the care of fire victims and firefighters, the Patrol equipped a fire truck with a first aid box and oxygen cylinders in 1918—an early step toward organized emergency medical care in the community.
Formation of the Rescue Squad
In 1946, following a tragic drowning in the Delaware River and a disorganized recovery effort, local citizens recognized the need for a dedicated rescue service.
With the donation of an Army surplus Dodge truck—converted into an ambulance—and the purchase of rescue boats, the Lambertville Rescue Squad became operational in March 1947.
From the beginning, the Squad emphasized training and equipment, preparing members to handle a wide range of emergencies. During the 1955 Delaware River flood, members worked 72 continuous hours to save lives and property.
The Squad went on to earn numerous awards and recognition, including an unparalleled record in World Heavy Rescue Championships.
Growth and Expansion
In 1985, the organization became the Lambertville-New Hope Ambulance & Rescue Squad to better reflect its service area and encourage participation from both sides of the Delaware River.
Today, the Squad remains one of the few organizations providing emergency response across state lines.
The Ladies Auxiliary, formed in 1950, has played an important role in supporting the Squad’s mission over the years.
Today
The Squad operates a modern fleet including four ambulances licensed in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Each unit is equipped with essential life-saving tools such as AEDs, Narcan, EpiPens, and oxygen systems.
Additional resources include:
- Marine and technical rescue vehicles
- Diver support and utility trucks
- Multiple rescue boats, including specialized K9 and airboat units
Members are trained Emergency Medical Technicians and maintain certifications in CPR and advanced emergency response techniques under the supervision of the Squad’s medical director.
The Squad responds to emergencies 24 hours a day, every day of the year, supported by volunteers and full-time personnel.
Our Mission
The Squad is funded through community donations, fundraising efforts, and municipal support. Since 2011, third-party billing has helped sustain operations and ensure continued service.
Strong community support—from residents, civic groups, and local government—remains essential to the Squad’s ability to respond when it matters most.
