Washington Volunteer Firemen Inc.   
Fire Company History
1962-1978

 

Washington Volunteer Firemen Inc. was organized in August of 1963, and incorporated on September 6, 1963.

Before the fire company could consider itself in a position to provide fire protection to township residents much had to be done.

Members undertook an extensive training program, which included attendance at the Mercer County Fire School, and assisting the three fire companies, Allentown, Nottingham, and Hightstown, which were contracted to fight township fires.

So impressed by the spunk and determination of this fledgling fire company, a local fire truck manufacturer sold to us at cost a used fire engine, and donated a second one. Both trucks were housed in a private garage from where they would respond to all township fire calls.

The land presently occupied by the fire company was donated by the Valhsing family on March 23, 1964. after plans were completed by an architect fire company members began constructing the firehouse in 1965.

Not until the fire company had acquire two more fire trucks, finished the new firehouse, purchased all needed fire equipment, and completed the required training, could we become Washington Township’s fire department.

On January 1, 1968, after more than 5 years of hard work, Washington Volunteer Firemen was recognized by the Fire Insurance Rating Organization, and given sole rights to protect the township by the Washington Township Committee.

Confronted by a near impossible mission, our members have responded admirably. We now own and operate two pumpers, a 1948 Mack, and a 1974 1000 gpm Hahn, a 1971 Chevrolet 4-wheel drive field truck, and a 1972 Ford 4,500 gallon tanker. We will be receiving a new, 1979 Mack Tele-squirt with a matter of weeks. This new engine can pump more than 1000 gallons of water a minute, and is equipped with a 55 foot aerial ladder.

The fire company also operate a banquet hall capable of seating 300 people for wedding receptions, dances, showers, dinner, etc.
 

Back to Main Page