JAMESBURG — Fire trucks galore, from hand-drawn antiques to the latest designs, will take center stage June 26 when fire companies from around the state converge on Thompson Park.
The Tri-County Chapter of the Society for the Appreciation and Preservation of Antique Motorized Fire Apparatus will present its annual fire truck muster and related festivities, starting with a 10 a.m. motorcade. The procession will wind through downtown Jamesburg, ending at the park. Some 60 trucks are expected, including many from fire companies in Middlesex and Monmouth counties.
“There will be all types of fire trucks — pumpers, ladder trucks, rescue trucks, brush trucks, tankers…” said John Rieth, a member of the tri-county association, as well as a fire warden with the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service and a member of the Helmetta Volunteer Fire Company. One example of the antique trucks that will be displayed is the Spotswood Fire Department’s 1911 Ford Model T, he said.
Awards will be given out for fire trucks in various categories, likely around 2 or 2:30 p.m., he said.
The show will also feature a “firematic flea market,” with collectors selling items from their collections, fire apparatus parts, books, T-shirts and hats. Several fire truck dealers will also have apparatus on display, showing the latest designs. Afire safety house will also be set up.
The event is free and will be held rain or shine.