Preparations are underway for the first fireman’s muster in Jaffrey since 1880, when Torrent Engine Company of West Gardner, Mass., won first place by pumping a stream of 188-feet, 11-inches.
The Jaffrey 250th Organizing Committee, the Jaffrey Historical Society and the New England States Veteran Fireman’s League are sponsoring the muster, which will be Saturday, July 15 at Humiston Field from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This year’s muster is a component of the Jaffrey 250th Jubilee celebration. There are multiple events scheduled throughout July and August celebrating the town’s 250th anniversary. All events are free and open to the public.
Competitors from Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine and New Hampshire will bring their restored antique engines, all hand-pumpers, to throw water the longest distance while seeking a special engraved medallion. These engines and others that are not competing will be on display before and after their pumping session.
Spectators are asked to park at the school on Stratton Road and walk or ride the shuttle bus to Humiston Field. Parking at the field is limited to participants and workers. Visitors should bring folding chairs or blankets to sit on the field while watching the competition. Spectators will have opportunities to hand-pump some of the engines. Anyone 15 or over who can reach the brakes on the pumpers can sign up for the “pumper pool” at the muster and wait to be called individually when an opening is announced.
Additionally, teams can be formed before the muster, registered online, and will be given an opportunity to pump an engine, just for sport. Local teams will not compete for the prize. Teams might come from businesses, industry, organizations or clubs. Contact email is bruce.hill@jaffrey250.com or voicemail at 603-598-0120, Ext. 803.