Photo by RON JEFFERSThis is the time of year when many are thinking of toys. In the 1970's, Ralstoy #22 was a replica of Newark Tactical Squad 2. During the "War Years," the NFD operated two of these companies. The members of Tac. 1 and Tac. 2 were dispatched to fires for additional manpower.

Photo by RON JEFFERSCorgi produced a replica of Morristown Washington Hose Co. 1's Ahrens Fox HT model piston pumper. Reportedly, the modern day image of Santa Claus was created by a Morristown volunteer fireman that served with Independent Hose Co. 1. Thomas Nast (1840-1902) was a caricaturist and editorial cartoonist who was considered to be the "Father of the American Cartoon." Among his notable works was the creation of the modern version of Santa Claus, drawn as the plump, bearded man we know today. Nast drew his version of Santa for the cover of Harper's Weekly in 1863. Nast also formed the image of Uncle Sam. His drawings adorn the walls of the inactive firehouse on Market Street.