MILLTOWN FIRE APPARATUS IS A SUCCESS
Test Last Night Shows That Motor Truck Will Do the Work – Other Borough News.
MILLTOWN, Aug. 10.-At 7.45 o’clock last evening the whistle of the Michelin Tire Company announced the time for the test of the new Fire apparatus. At 7.43 a pile of boxes, barrels and other inflammable material were set afire on the grounds belonging to the Richter Brothers, on the corner of Richter Avenue and Clay Street.
In the meantime, the Mayor, four Councilmen, two firemen, two mechanics from Boyd Brothers, Philadelphia, and the Home News correspondent were at the Borough Hall, wandering about the premises. At the sound of the whistle all ran for the apparatus, the motor was started and the machine wailing down Main Street to Richter avenue, to the fire. The distance was made in three minutes and twenty seconds. The hose was quickly fastened to the tanks and the chemical stream was played upon the fire. In four minutes and fifty seconds after leaving the borough hall, the fire was practically extinguished.
The test was all that could be desired in showing the efficiency of the machine as a fire fighter. Previous to this the apparatus had been put through a running test, which proved satisfactory in every particular.
Mr. Zehn, of Boyd Brothers, directed the fire fighting last night with the aid of Foreman Henry Kuhlthau and assistant Foreman Aubrey Kuhlthau. The borough officials present expressed themselves as much pleased with the test.
“Billy” Killeen, a local fireman, who’s very active, did efficient work in putting out the blaze and was highly applauded. This called forth a speech and “Billy” gave his opinion that the apparatus was the best ever. After the test the local firemen were shows how to manipulate the chemical tanks and the motor.
Mayor Conrad Richter expressed in self as highly pleased with the apparatus.
Young People Draw the Crowd
The Young People’s Society of the German Reformed Church were having their annual supper in Milltown park last evening. As the grounds where the test was given adjoins the park, the large crowd proceeded to the picnic after the test and enjoyed of the society. Terry’s . orchestra, of New Brunswick, furnished fine music, while supper and refreshments were being sold. The affair was a great success.
Fred Gowen was one of the New Brunswick firemen who witnessed the test last, evening.
Mrs. R. M. Huesic, of Highland Park, was a guest of borough friends yesterday.