From: Somerset Messenger

Neshanic, NJ - March 29, 1929 --- The arrival of the new fire apparatus was celebrated Wednesday evening. The Womens Auxiliary served an oyster supper in the Reformed chapel which was enjoyed by about 200 persons coming from many nearby communities. All were delighted to inspect the new fire engine so much needed in this section. The large supper tables presented a very attractive appearance. A toy fire engine decorated with small flags made a very appropriate decoration for each table. While oysters were featured on the menu, there was baked ham, salads, and a variety of good things.

George H. Van Derveer, president of the fire company, was toastmaster and before introducing the visiting speakers, recounted some of the achievements of the company which was organized in October 1927. Officers elected at the first meeting were V. W. Opie, president; George H. Van Derveer, vice president; David W. Amerman, secretary; W. J. Edgar, treasurer.

Mr. Van Derveer paid a high tribute to the members of the Womens Auxiliary of the company, which was organized Nov. 2, 1927, a the home of Mrs. J. Staats Covert. It was at Mrs. Coverts home that the fund for fire equipment was created.

The member of the Home Economics Club, of which Mrs. Covert is leader, exhibited some of their handiwork at Trenton Fair and were awarded $9.26 in prizes.

The girls winning these prizes were: Mildred Gulick, Katherine Rupell, Cereda Cole, Margaret Quick and Frances Hoff. They wished to apply the award to some good purpose, and as Neshanic had suffered a number of disastrous fires, decided to start the fund for fire protection. The Girls Club has since made contributions to the fund.

Mrs. Samuel Hall was elected president of the Womans Auxiliary which has earned over $800, most of which has been paid in on the apparatus, which cost about $5,000.

The Fire Company purchase a lot and has erected a new fire house of concrete blocks, which contains both light and heat and which is entirely free of debt. This has been accomplished by the generosity of local carpenters, who have donated all the labor. Much of the money pledge toward the enterprise has been paid. About $3,500 has been paid on the engine.

Plans are being make to hold a carnival this Summer, which, with the activities of the auxiliary, will no doubt soon wipe out all indebtedness. Fire Chief Bellis of Somerville congratulated the community of the success of the enterprise and William J. Quick, also of Somerville, made an appropriate address. It was regretted by all that Fire Chief Covert and his wife, who had been untiring in their efforts to promote the enterprise were unable to attend the celebration because of the sudden death of Chief Coverts father.