An incredible opportunity has become available to help preserve a unique piece of Madison’s history – a rare 1921 Ahrens Fox Model P-4 fire engine, affectionately named Geraldine, in honor of Geraldine R. Dodge.  Mrs. Dodge purchased the fire engine for the department after a major fire at her estate.  Madison’s original fire engine, one of the two remaining Ahrens Fox Model P-4s, is now available for purchase from a private collector at a cost of $150,000.  The Friends of Geraldine is a 501(3) (C) nonprofit organization established to help purchase this part of Madison’s history.

The Madison Fire Department, along with citizen volunteers, have formed this group and dedicated their time and efforts by organizing various fundraisers. The fundraising efforts were started with a fund drive letter as well as a T-Shirt sale that took place on Bottle Hill Day.  Most recently the members of the fire department held a “Fill the Boot” collection at local merchants. With plans of more fundraising to come, help is still needed and greatly appreciated.

Please assist us by making a tax-deductible donation to help preserve this unique piece of Madison’s history.  All contributions will be used for the purchase and care of the fire engine.  Checks can be made payable to The Friends of Geraldine and mailed to the address listed below.  Additionally, donations can be made online at: www.BringGeraldineHome.org. 

The Friends of Geraldine

Madison Public Safety Building

62 Kings Road

Madison, NJ 07940