Barbara Lawlor, Gilpin County.  A volunteer fire department is more than the firefighters who jump into bunker gear or wildfire gear; it includes the support groups who stand behind them, members of the community and dedicated volunteers who work hard to ensure that the firefighters have what they need to do their job.

The High Country Auxiliary, with the help of the Timberline Fire Protection District, hosts fundraising events to bring in the resources needed to support the firefighters. Last weekend’s HCA Annual Flea Market was one of the larger money-generating events. The auxiliary takes donations from the community and then sells these donations back to the community, making the donators feel supportive and the customers feel like they just got a heck of a good deal.

The market is a time for non-profit agencies and politicians to introduce themselves to the residents, offer lip balm, hot dogs and information on what is going on in the county.

The Timberline firefighters are on hand to set up and help buyers load up their vehicles and then break down what is left over. It is a job for muscle and dedication.

Working the flea market is more than just work. Mary Mohn is the newest HCA board member, having come to Gilpin County less than two years ago. She says she was looking for a way to get involved with the community and being a part of the fire district helped her accomplish that goal.

The auxiliary members say they earned at least $3,000, which will go to the fire district and to the Gilpin County Animal Rescue Team. During times of emergency, these funds will help bring pets and livestock to safety.

Flea Market purchases sometimes come with histories. TFPD board member Chip Smith says a few years ago, he bought a stuffed armadillo for $5, thinking it would make a great white elephant gift on Christmas, for his sister.

When she unwrapped the critter, she screamed in horror. The animal was torn, greasy, had hair on its stomach. “He was disgusting and nasty.” Chip had named him Hank and thought he would be the best Christmas present ever.

It turns out the armadillo was owned by Dave Hitchcock, a former High Country Fire Department member, who had a passion for working on his motorcycle. The armadillo lucked out, however. Jennifer Hinderman, the TFPD administrator, fell in love with him and to this day he has a place in the Timberline office and an official membership card. As it turns out, Timberline Hank was the best Christmas present ever.

Gilpin County Sheriff Bruce Hartman dropped in searching for treasures. The volunteers say he used to come in every year picking up canning jars, but this year his wife said she had enough. He left carrying a bag of candles.

“They offer light and are good to have around when the power goes out.”

Long-time market organizer Wanda Sundquist said the shoppers she likes the most are the ones that come in with a list of things they need.

And usual, they’ll fine something they don’t need, it’s not on the list, but sure is a good idea at the time.

(Originally published in the June 14, 2018, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)