FIRE DEPARTMENT OF SOMERVILLE.

A number of fire companies have been organized at different times, but have disbanded for some cause. About 1873 the board of commissioners of Somerville erected a brick house on Maple Street, about 16 by 45 feet, two stories in height, for an engine-house, and also purchased an Amoskeag steamer, with the necessary hose and hose-cart. A company was then in existence, and continued two or three years. The present company was organized Sept. 19, 1878, with 60 members, and is known as "Somerville Fire Engine Company, No. 1." The company has at present 55 active members, all of whom are business men of the village. The present officers are George W. Abbott, Foreman; R. L. Day, First Assistant Foreman; James B. Brown, Second Assistant; George W. Sanborn, Secretary; John Maxwell, Treasurer.

An independent hook-and-ladder company was organized in July, 1880, with 20 members, and elected officers as follows: William Steele, Foreman; William Taylor, Assistant Foreman; George Jones, Secretary; John Garretson, Treasurer. A truck with the necessary equipment has been purchased.