The Independent Hose Company was formed in 1867 to provide fire protection to the historic Town of Morristown.
The Independent Hose Company of Morristown NJ was formed on August 13, 1867. It's current fire station was erected in 1870 and shares quarters to this day with the Washington Engine Company . Notably a wall used to run along the middle of the firehouse which separated the two companies who used to have a strong rivalry.The Independents, for the most part, were Protestants while the Washington Engine Co. were Irish Catholics.
The IHC is proud to have called the famous cartoonist Thomas Nast as a member. Several of Thomas Nast's paintings depicting this relationship are hung in the Macculloch Hall Historical Museum.
Legend also has it that President Ulysses S. Grant once visited the IHC's quarters when he traveled through town on the train.
Today the Independent Hose Company continues to keep our history and traditions alive and well as one of the most active volunteer companies. With weekly ride-out nights, bi-weekly departmental drills, monthly "Fox Drills" and various local events, we continue to strive to serve our community!
