History
Although a fire company existed in Rocky Hill long before 1902 the first written record describes the formation of the Rocky Hill Hook and Ladder Co. #1 by William Stults. In late June 1902 these first firemen placed an order for a hand-drawn Seagraves Hook and Ladder truck costing $370.00. On August 15, 1902, the Rocky Hill Hook and Ladder Company #1 was incorporated and for many years served the area between Hopewell, Princeton and New Brunswick.
The grounds for the first firehouse were donated by Harriet Voorhees and were located on Crescent Avenue. On October 27, 1902, the Fire Company requested recognition as a protective agency from the borough and was granted an initial appropriation of $15.00
In 1905, the Fire Company purchased a second, a hand-drawn double cylinder Chemical Engine from Rex Fire Apparatus Company of New York. Now 97 years old “The Rex” travels near and far to be showcased at parades, antiques musters and other events.
On September 29, 1922 marked the motorization of the Rocky Hill Fire Company. At this time a double chemical wagon mounted on a Model T Ford chassis was purchased from the Buffalo Chemical Fire Extinguisher Co. The total price, $2,385.00.
The new Model T soon made it apparent the firehouse was not large enough to house the three pieces. At this time a drive was begun to construct a new firehouse on Washington Street. Construction of the new firehouse began in 1925 and had the distinction of being one of the few buildings in the area decorated with Terra Cotta.
In 1932, a Hale Custom 500 g.p.m. pumper was purchased and in 1955 a Great Eastern Pumper set on a Ford Chassis was purchased. The Great Eastern cost $12,000. In addition during this time period the Rocky Hill Fire Company was active in organizing the Somerset County Firemen’s Association and the Somerset County Fire School.
Between the years of 1972 and 1973, the firehouse was remodeled in preparation for a new 1975 Great Eastern pumper. This piece was purchased for a price of $50,000.
In 1982 an E-One pumper on a Ford chassis was purchased for $96,000. The reason for the purchase of this engine was that it holds 1000 gallons of water as well as pumps a 1000-g.p.m.
In 1997 we took delivery of 1997 Pierce Saber pumper. This is our first due pumper and is an incredibly versatile piece.
In 2009 the we replaced Engine 532 with a 2010 International/Pierce Engine. The engine carries out all of the RIT and Rescue duties of the department.
In the last 100 years, Rocky Hill and surrounding areas have seen a great deal of change. Amongst all the changes, the Rocky Hill Fire Company has gone from hand drawn apparatus to motorized engines to the modern fire fighting equipment we have today.
The Rocky Hill Hook and Ladder Company #1 has a rich and proud history. As members of the Rocky Hill Hook and Ladder Company #1 we will carry on that pride and dedication for the next 100 years.
