12/06/2024
🔔 🔔 🔔 NEW ADDITION 🔔 🔔 🔔
Engineer Ephraim T. Rogers
Engine Co. 9
Jersey City Fire Department
LODD: December 6, 1895
Engineer Ephraim T. Rogers died from illness received following firefighting operations on Duncan Ave. Engineer Rogers became ill at quarters and was removed to his home at Fairview and Monticello Ave, where he would die later die that night. His cause of death listed as Cholera Morbus – today commonly just referred to a cholera, believed to have been caused by ingesting water at the scene of a fire.
Fireman Ephraim “Evan” T. Rogers began his life of service as an old volunteer fireman of the City of Bergen and then the Jersey City Volunteer Fire Department. He was hired as one of the first paid man when the paid department was established in June 1871 and assigned to Engine Co. 7, and promoted to Engineer in 1873, assigned to Engine Company 9 for 22 years. Engineer Rogers served his Nation during the Civil war in both the Union Army and Navy. During the war he was promoted to Sergeant Major, of Co. D of the 3rd Battalion,. Following the war, he was a proud and active member of the Zabriskie Post, G.A.R.
The day of his funeral 42 permanent men, retired members of the Jersey City Fireman’s Mutual Benevolent Association, old volunteers of both Jersey City and Bergen as well as his brothers in arms of both branches of service attended. The article highlights the beautiful floral tribute depicting his badge, given by the Jersey City FMBA. He is buried in the New York Bay Cemetery. On December 6, 1895, the Board of Fire Commissioners reported the following: Gentlemen – I respectfully report that Even T. Rogers, Engineer of Engine Company 9, died at 4 PM this day, from a severe attack of cholera. The deceased, in point of service, was one of the oldest members of the Department and from his exemplary conduct, application to the duties of his position and general good qualities, merited the approbation of his superior officers, and was well deserving of the application, “well done thou good and faithful servant.” Respectfully submitted John Conway, Chief Engineer.
Engineer Rogers was 54 at the time of his death and left behind his loving wife Elizabeth and three adult sons. Following his death the Board of Fire Commissioners approved her pension in January 1896. His eldest son Evan T. Rogers Jr. would become a prominent member of Jersey City and sit on several boards and positions in City and County Government including serving as a Lawyer and owner of a company in downtown Jersey City.
Respectfully Submitted
Mike Somma
Engine Co 9
"Our Fallen- Never Forgotten "
