17 April, 1990 (~estimated)

Princeton fire auxiliares buck trend, others fall by wayside

At one time, the ladies auxiliary was an integral part of any fire company. The women were on hand to lend support in ways that ranged from handing out coffee or late night,fires to helping out with the fend-raising driVes.

However, dwindling membership and increased opportunities for women within the foe department have taken a sharp toll on the ladies auxiliary.

Two companies of women remain active in the area, each serving a company within the Princeton Fire Department.

The others, fire officials said, have gone by  the wayside.

“We had one right up until last year, said Michael Kendzierski, president of the Plainsboro volunteer company.

“Years ago, the ;adioes auxiliary was very good for the volunteer firefighters,” M,r. Kendzierski said.

As is the case with people interested fighting fires, members were not lining up to fill out applications, he said.

As is the case with people interested fighting fires, members were not lining up to fill out applications, he said.

The Princeton Junction Volunteer Fire Co. also folded up its auxiliary unit.

“WHat members were left, they joined in the capacity of an associate member, ” said fire company President Larry Boyer.

Many fire companies offer memberships that allow volunteers to help in non-firefighting area, such as fundraising and administration.

“It takes nine people to backup the one person who runs into a fire with a hose,” Mr. Kendzierski said.

Those positions — open to both men and women — handle a number of the duties performed by the ladies auxiliaries, he added.

About eight Princeton women are trying to buck the trend. They formed the Hook and Ladder ladies auxiliary two years ago.

“We try to help out the men as much as possible,” said Shelly Martin.

“It’s a good feeling to be able to help out,” she said.

During the recent early morning blaze on Nassau Street, the ladies stood outside for several hours in the bitter cold along side of the firefighters. The women made a fresh supply of hot coffee was always on hand for the firefighters.

Although the group is low on members, what it has tried to do has “been a smashing success,” Ms. Martin said.

Eventually the auxiliary plans to have additional fund-raisers besides its pancake breakfasts, she said.

Princeton Engine Company No. 1 has new ceiling fans in its fire-house, thanks to donations form thier ladies auxiliary.

“Right now, we’re dying for new members,” Ms. Martin said.

“Now we just have a little group and that’s it. We work really well together, and we’re hoping that can spread with new members,” she explained.

“It’s a great feeling to help out, it really is. And with more members eventually we can do more,” Ms. Martin said.