‘Turnback Tuesday’ features Hotchkiss Hose Co. #1

Turnback Tuesday is remembering the oldest fire company in Derby, Hotchkiss Hose Co. #1.

The company was formed June 7, 1837. Records indicate that the first engine was a hand pump machine manned by 12 men.

This image is of the first motorized fire apparatus. It was built by John J. Booth in 1914. John was a local blacksmith and carriage maker with a shop at 13-17 Housatonic Ave. in Derby.

This image and many others will be on display for the months of September and October at the Derby Public Library.

The items displayed will be from the collection of the Hotchkiss Hose Co. #1 and their members.

Thanks goes to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.