Collection IDMG 971

Size1 volume

Collection Description The Newark Fire Association, the predecessor of today's Newark Fire Department, was formed in February 1797. The association consisted of an engine company and a hook and ladder company, and later evolved into three engine companies. Company No. 1 used a new engine, Company No. 2 used the old engine, and Company No. 3 used the hose. The first officers chosen were: Hugh McDougall, Matthias Day, Caleb Baldwin (treasurer) and James Brown (clerk).

In 1854 the Fire Department was reorganized into 11 part-time companies. A decade later, at the time of the Civil War, the Newark Fire Association had over 500 members.

Collection Contents The collection consists of a minute book kept by the Newark Fire Engine Company No. 1 from 1799-1801. The minutes document meetings from December 1799 to February 1801 in which the founding officers were elected and the rules of the organization established. Meetings were held on the last Saturday of every month.

FormatTextual materials

SubjectFirefighting

Time Periods18th Century; 19th Century

LanguageEnglish

Access policyOpen for research

ProcessedYes