The Ladies Auxiliary to the Troy Township
Volunteer Fire Department

The Ladies Auxiliary to the Troy Township Volunteer Fire Department was formed as a non-profit making social organization. The purpose in forming the auxiliary was to sponsor money making projects for the Troy Volunteer Fire Department.

The first meeting was held May 4, 1956 at the Troy School because at that time there was no fire department building. Each month, the ladies had money making projects, proceeds going towards the mortgage of the new fire barn.

Over the years, as the Auxiliary and the Fire Department grew, so did the various fund raisers. In the beginning the Ladies worked on rummage sales, box socials, breakfasts, bakery sales, raffles, card and bunco parties, bingo parties, salad bar luncheons, and candy sales. Monies for these early projects enabled the ten to obtain coats, boots, hose, radios and even a loud siren.

On April 27, 1963 the Ladies sponsored their first "Spring Dance" held at what was then known as the Hon Nob, today it's Ski and Bike Chalet. Profit form this was $800. The next year the "Spring Dance and for the years since was called "The Troy Fireman's Ball". As an annual project the dance has become the major moneymaker for the Auxiliary. In 1984, a new procedure of mailing letters to all residences of Troy Township was initiated. Profits from the 1985 dance were $4,000 which helped the firemen to buy bunker pants and a VCR for training.

The Auxiliary not only makes money for the Fire Department, but helps in other ways. In earlier years the Firemen held spaghetti suppers, and fish fries. The Ladies also helped work in the kitchen as well as bake goodies for dessert. The Firemen's Picnic was always a joint effort between the Ladies and the Firemen, not only for the work, but also the cost shared.

In the past few years the Auxiliary has also been working on a new type of project. Whenever we are needed we provide coffee, etc., to the Firemen at the fire scene. Depending on the time of day and also weather conditions, we try to prepare refreshments for them men to help them endure the task of getting through the call. Coffe, hot chocolate, donuts, pop, sandwiches and even hot soup has been dished out.

Not only money making projects have been undertaken. Recently the Ladies shave participated in Parades. Many trophies have been won for the homemade floats they enter. Much time, energy, and handiwork is devoted to this project.

Whatever project is being undertaken, for money for fun, all the Ladies are proud to work for our terrific Fire Department. The task may be trying and difficult at times, but everyone feel is worth it for our Firemen.

The Auxiliary elects new officers each May. They are installed at a ceremony held each year at the Annual June Banquet. The Ladies also enjoy a Christmas Banquet.