Long Branch relights firefighting history with new $650K museum. See what's inside
LONG BRANCH - Would you like to see an original Babcock Chemical Engine from the 1880s? How about a Wirt & Knox Fire Department Hose Jumper from two decades later?
The city spent the last year curating a collection of fire artifacts, apparatus and photography dating back to the late 1800s for the new Long Branch Fire & History Museum at 46 Atlantic Ave. Now, the city will open the door for a preview this Saturday when both the Babcock and Writ & Knox will be on display.
“This has been a labor of love, and we are honored to be able to tell the story of the Long Branch Fire Department and the important role it has played throughout our city’s rich history. We are fortunate to have such well-preserved antique equipment to showcase at the museum and we look forward to bringing the community together at the sneak peek," Mayor John Pallone said.
The city, which at one time had nine fire stations, was the first to have a fire department in Monmouth County.
One of the last things the city did in 2022 was announce its intent to purchase the Oliver Byron Hose Company No. 3 and renovate for the museum it at a cost of roughly $650,000. The company had merged with Neptune Hose Co. 1 on Branchport Avenue and no longer needed the building. Rather than sell it to a private purchaser, the fire company sold it to city.
The mayor and City Council approved the bonding for the purchase in December 2022 and then spent all of 2023 renovating the old firehouse. While the city is opening the museum from just 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, a larger grand opening will take place later this year.
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Life in Fishtown
The Oliver Byron Hose Company No. 3 formed in 1890, and was the third station to open in the city. This one put out fires in what was known then as the Fishtown neighborhood of the city. The following year it was named after the famous Broadway stage actor and Long Branch resident, Oliver D. Byron, who made a sizeable donation to the newly formed fire company in the late 19th century.
Byron was one of the most wealthiest actors in the U.S. and resided at the same seashore enclave used by U.S. presidents.
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The city reconstructed the building based on historical images. The red exterior color, period shutters framing the windows, along with the large replicated wooden doors, pay homage to the original building and firehouses of the era. The bay and entire first floor have been renovated to welcome visitors to the museum. Work is still being done on the second floor by the Department of Public Works.
“Arthur Green, Long Branch Fire Department historian, has played a crucial part in making the museum a realty," Pallone said. "His knowledge of the history of the Long Branch Fire Department is endless and his collection of photos, equipment and memorabilia is invaluable."
Through permanent and revolving displays, the Long Branch Fire & History Museum will collect, archive and educate the community in what is designed to be an inviting and interesting environment. The city will also use it for programming and special events, to promote fire safety and prevention, volunteerism and careers in firefighting, as well as honor public service and those who have fallen.
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When Jersey Shore native Dan Radel is not reporting the news, you can find him in a college classroom where he is a history professor. Reach him @danielradelapp; 732-643-4072; dradel@gannettnj.com.
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Long Branch fire history museum offers sneak preview of Fishtown life
