By: Michelle Jones, Follow South Jersey Community Journalist
SALEM, N.J. – There are many organizations that have had an impact in Salem City and one in particular that stands out is the Salem City Fire Department.
The department spans over a 200 year commitment to service and remains active today. With a history of service, this fire company is and has always been dedicated to the safety and well being of the citizens of Salem.
The first fire company established was the Union Street Engine Company in 1749 and was located in a small fire house on the corner of Market Street and Broadway. New companies emerged from the first. According to the historical marker in town the companies also included Reliance (1825), Liberty (1866), Washington (1867) and North Bend (1904).
Salem city fire department is now recruiting new members. They are holding an informational meeting on September 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
Firefighting in the 18th through early 20th centuries was not for the faint of heart. Salem City firefighters faced many obstacles including reliance on volunteers, insufficient equipment, highly flammable structures, and very limited budgets. The earliest companies had to use manual pumpers called hand tubs. These pumpers required multiple operators and relied on levers to operate the pump. The process was slow for a fast moving fire and these along with “newer” steam engines were an integral part of fighting fires here in Salem.
As time marched forward, so did the fire department. Better equipment, slightly better budgets, and bigger firehouses made firefighting in the city more efficient. Safety however, when fighting fires, is subject to the elements of the fire. Materials that are burning, speed of the fire, caustic substances, and dangerous structures are factors in the safety of those fighting the fire.
Salem City created a firehouse museum located on Broadway to educate the public on the history of firefighting not just in Salem City but throughout the county. This beautiful museum is currently closed but can be reached for special events and is open at various times for special occasions throughout the year. Most notably in the past they have been open for the Yuletide tour.
The current Salem City Fire Department is 100% volunteer, and they are in the process of recruiting new volunteers right now. They are holding an informational meeting on September 14th from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. The meeting will be located at 166 East Broadway at the Washington Firehouse. Salem residency is not required.
For more information, see their Facebook page by clicking here.
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