By Thomas R.
Bayles
The following
account of the dedication of the Bellport Hook and Ladder
Company is taken from The Patchogue Advance for November 24,
1893.
“The boys of
the Patchogue Hook and Ladder Co., about 25 strong, with their
truck, were met at Dunton by the handsome company of the
Bellport Hook and Ladder boys with their new truck, headed by
the band and escorted by a torch light brigade marched on to
Bellport. After a short stop at the truck house, the procession
moved down Bellport Ave. and back again to the truck house,
after which the firemen repaired to Woodruff’s Hall where seats
had been reserved for them.
“The hall was
packed with over 300 people and the musical program was executed
with all the skill and grace characteristic of Bellport’s
talented musicians.
“Chief Edwin
Bailey of Patchogue, in presenting the new truck to the firemen
on behalf of the people of Bellport, complimented both the
people of Bellport and the firemen, by saying that the former
were worthy of praise for making possible the formation of the
company, and the firemen were worthy of equal praise for
rallying so heartily to the work before them.
“Foreman
Everett M. Price, or receiving the truck on behalf of the
company, thanked the people for the confidence reposed in the
volunteer firemen, and hoped the organization of the fire
company was the beginning of greater things for the village.
“Rev. Frisbie
made a speech and presented a fine silver trumpet to the fire
company on behalf of the manufactures of the handsome modern
equipped truck.
“After
cheering the closing words of Mr. Drinker the audience repaired
to the new truck house where the ladies of the village served a
delicious and bountiful lunch was served to everyone. This
expression of hospitality went right to the hearts and stomachs
of the Patchogue boys. Their only regret was that it was not in
good form to eat the waiters, as they certainly did look good
enough and sweet enough to satisfy any epicurean taste.
“While the
people of Bellport are congratulating themselves on the
possession of a well equipped and well manned Hook and Ladder
Co., the time may come when they will see the heroic efforts of
the young men save their village from total destruction. The
editor of the Advance counts himself honored in being permitted
to make the acquaintance of such gentlemanly brother firemen.
“The officers
of the new fire company are Everett M. Price, foreman; Barney
King, asst. foreman; Charles H. Hawkins, secretary, and John H.
Weldner, treasurer.”