In September 1950, a meeting was held in the small community of Silverton,
comprised of dedicated men that shared a common goal: to protect the lives
and property of their neighbors. That was the beginning of what became
the Silverton Volunteer Fire Company # 1, Station 29.
By January 1951, the idea became a reality. The company, now incorporated,
selected George Herbert to be it’s Chief. Construction began on
the firehouse, until it’s completion in January 1953. During this
time meetings were held at the members’ homes as well as the community
center. The hard work of the founders paid off in January 1954, when the
Dover Township Board of Fire Commissioners formally recognized our company.
THE JOURNEY TO THE 21st CENTURY
The first piece of fire apparatus was a 1952 American LaFrance pumper,
purchased from the Atlantic Highlands Fire Co. for $1.00. In 1955, the
company was able to purchase its first new apparatus from TASC Fire Equipment
in Wall Township. This pumper has since been completely restored, winning
numerous trophies from around the state. From these modest beginnings,
the company has grown to include three “Class A” engines,
a 100 foot tower ladder, a rescue/extrication unit, two brush trucks,
a water rescue/rehabilitations unit, fire police unit, and a 25 foot fireboat.
During the past decade these units responded to approximate 350 calls
for service each year. These call for service ranged from fire alarms,
structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, boat accidents, hazardous conditions,
water and ice rescues and public service calls.
The Ladies Auxiliary was formed in 1951 with Mrs. Nancy Herbert serving
as the first president. The Auxiliary remains to this day an intricate
part of the organizations. From assisting at fires and emergencies, to
spending long hours fundraising, their contributions are invaluable.
In June 1976, the company celebrated its 25th anniversary. With the support
of the commissioners and the residents of Silverton, a new building was
dedicated, along with a tower ladder and chief’s car. Through the
dedicated professionalism of our members and the support from their families,
our dream of being one of the finest fire companies in the state had been
achieved.
Our membership has steadily grown over the years. Each member draws on
our traditions adding their individual talents to provide the best possible
community service. We carry on the legacy of our founders.
This year, the company celebrates
years of service and recognizes its members for their unselfish, tireless
dedication to their community. Through our numerous activities, a fire
explorer program, Easter egg hunts, children’s Christmas parties,
Flower sales, Chinese auctions, food and toy drives, dances, public safety
day and most of all saving lives and property. We will continue the proud
tradition of the Silverton Volunteer Fire Co #1.
We are Station 29 and proud of it.
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