LONG-SERVICE RECORD

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 385, 20 June 1928, Page 13

LONG-SERVICE RECORD

FIREMAN’S RETIREMENT 39 YEARS AT MOUNT EDEN A period of 39 years of fire brigade service is the record of Mr. J. E. Williams, of Enfield Street, Mount Eden, who has just retired from the position of superintendent of the Mount Eden Fire Brigade, with which lie has been associated since 1889. He lias been made a life member of the brigade in recognition of bis long service.

Early in that year a public meeting was held to consider the formation of a fire brigade for the Mount Eden district, but only two men volunteered to serve in the brigade, one being Mr. Williams and the other Mr. William Brown. Later in the year another meeting was held, the brigade being formed and the members signed on. The men who signed on were Messrs. Williams, Brown, W. Keyes. W. Eady, H Putt, J. Champion, L. Stanton, H. Surman, T. Wills, T. Drewitt, J- W. Stanton, and H. Abbott. Mr. Williams is the last of the original members to leave the brigade. Mr. Brown was the first chairman, but after a short time he resigned from the brigade and Mr. W. Keyes was elected in his stead. After a few rears Mr. Keyes was succeeded by Mr. Williams, who has held the position until the present time.

During the whole time of his service to the public. Mr. Williams has escaped serious accident, but he bears the scars of many minor burns. He still holds the position of official starter to the Auckland Fire Brigades’ Association, of which he was one of the founders. He has been through the various offices of the association, including that of president, and is now one of the trustees.