Long Branch Plans To Open First-Ever Fire And History Museum

LONG BRANCH, NJ — The city of Long Branch announced Wednesday evening that it purchased the Oliver Byron Fire House, pictured above, and plans to turn it into the Long Branch Fire and History Museum.

This is a historic 1891 building and property, located at 46 Atlantic Avenue at the corner of Ocean Avenue.

The city plans to open at least part of the museum in 2023, and promises a "grand opening filled with rich history and memories of historic Long Branch. Interesting artifacts from all nine fire companies will be displayed in museum, including a historic horse-drawn chemical steamer. More details to follow."

“As the city with the oldest fire department in Monmouth County, we are thrilled to create this new museum," said Long Branch Mayor John Pallone. "It was important to us to preserve this building with all of the rich history it holds with our Fire Department. We did not want to see it torn down or lose a piece of our important history. Our hope is that this museum will be here forever for many people to enjoy and learn from."

Long Branch’s Oliver Byron Hose Company No. 3 was originally formed in 1890. It was the third fire station to be established in the city.

A notable image of a fish with the name “Fishtown” is visible on the Oliver Byron Station House door. It refers to the early years of North Long Branch, when the area was known as Fishtown.

The Oliver Byron Station House is named after the famous Broadway stage actor, Oliver D. Byron, who lived in Long Branch and owned several properties in the city and made a sizeable donation to the newly formed hose company.