About 227 County Road 519
The address 227 County Road 519 in Wantage, NJ is actually the Beemerville Fire Department (Wantage Township Company #1) (wantagetwp.com ). In other words, it’s a rural volunteer fire station rather than a commercial theater or sports arena. The station sits in the hamlet of Beemerville, with its red-and-white fire trucks visible outside. Inside, there is a large meeting hall (used for community events) adjoining the apparatus bays. The building has served local residents for many decades, housing volunteer firefighters (no paid staff, roughly 70 volunteers (usfiredept.com )) and equipment. Its unique character comes from this hometown, hands-on atmosphere – spilling over with firefighting memorabilia, training gear, and the everyday charm of a firehouse “venue.” It’s not a flashy concert hall, but visitors remark on the friendly, welcoming feel. (For an idea of the layout, think of a fire station with an open social hall and tables set up for dinners or fundraisers.) There are no fixed seats or stage in the old barn-like structure, but instead a roll-up door and a sizable multi-purpose room decorated with local fire department banners. The site still matters as a community centerpiece – hosting volunteer fundraisers, safety training, and even the occasional class or meeting – and it anchors local traditions like annual barbecues or holiday open houses.
Events and Programming
This venue’s schedule is driven by community needs rather than commercial tours. Typical events have included firefighter fundraisers, charity runs, church benefits and private parties, rather than big-name concerts or sports. For example, past programming included a 5K fun run (with entry fees and T-shirts) to raise fire safety awareness (www.spartaindependent.com ), and a community spaghetti dinner to support the department (www.spartaindependent.com ). Churches and clubs often put on “Tricky Tray” raffle nights (one local church held a tray-auction event expecting 250 prizes (www.spartaindependent.com )) or pancake breakfasts. High school and sports clubs also use the firehouse; the High Point Regional football club, for instance, hosts an annual “Beefsteak” dinner and raffle at the firehouse (www.trip.com ). Events tend to occur on weekends or evenings and revolve around food and fundraising. Notable recent events include private parties (a 2019 “Get Your Pink On for Theresa” charity party is listed at the address) and recurring dinners. Program notes generally emphasize that tickets are inexpensive – in 2011 the firehouse spaghetti supper was $8 for adults (www.spartaindependent.com ) – and proceeds go back to the fire company or local charity. In short, visitors can expect local DJs or cover bands at dances, potluck dinners, raffles, fire-safety demos, and the like. There is no regular ticketed concert series; instead, check local bulletin boards, church newsletters or social media for any upcoming event at the Beemerville firehouse.
Tickets and Booking
There is no box office at the firehouse, and tickets are handled informally by event organizers. For charity dinners or dances, tickets are usually sold in advance by phone or at local shops, or at the door on the night of the event. (For instance, the 2011 spaghetti dinner allowed $8 tickets to be bought at the entrance (www.spartaindependent.com ).) Sporting or race events often require registration up-front. In general, treat it like a community center: tickets and RSVPs are arranged through the sponsoring group (church, school, club, etc.). There is no electronic ticketing service for the hall itself – you’ll typically pay cash or check on site. Pricing varies widely by event: small fundraising dinners or parties might be free or a nominal cover charge (often $5–$15), while races or meals charge enough to raise funds. If in doubt, contact the Wantage Fire Department or the group hosting the event (via the township or committee) to inquire. Because it’s a volunteer-run hall, group leaders often post flyers or updates on community forums rather than maintaining a formal online schedule.
Seating and Layout
The interior is a straightforward firehouse hall. When set up for events, rows of folding tables and chairs are arranged facing whatever stage or speakers have been brought in. There is no fixed grandstand or balcony – most seating is floor-level. Good seats are generally towards the center of the room or front around the small performance area, so tables at the sides or back may have limited visibility. The layout flexes with each event: some use long banquet tables (dinner style), others theater-style rows. The venue is spacious but not enormous (roughly dozens of tables could fit in, plus space to mingle), so plan to arrive early for popular events to claim a spot. Acoustically, the high-ceiling metal roof can be echoey, so sound systems or microphones brought in by the organizers help everyone hear. The hall includes at least one accessible seating area near the entrance (the 2016 flyer specifically noted handicap access (www.spartaindependent.com )), and tables can accommodate wheelchairs. There are no private VIP sections or booths; everything is shared community seating. In short, expect an open, cafeteria-like space with fold-up furniture and good sight-lines from most positions.
Getting There and Parking
227 County Road 519 is in the rural northern part of Wantage Township. The firehouse is located right on County Route 519 (also signed as State Route 519) in the hamlet of Beemerville. It’s roughly 4–5 miles north of the Route 23 corridor. The exact address is clear on maps (227 Route 519, Wantage, NJ 07461). The most convenient way to reach it is by car: take NJ Route 23 north from County Route 519, or come south on CR 519 from the state line. GPS devices and map apps recognize the Wantage Fire Department at this address. Public transit options are essentially nonexistent in this rural area – there are no nearby train or local bus stops, so rideshare or driving is required. Visitors usually drive themselves or get dropped off. Once on site, you’ll find a free parking lot adjacent to the station (www.spartaindependent.com ). This lot is unpaved but well-maintained, and free of charge during public events. In fact, the fire department advertises “free parking” and “free admission” for community events (www.spartaindependent.com ). Cars and guests should enter at the main driveway in front of the building. For rideshare drop-offs, the best spot is just in front of the hall doors on Route 519 (there’s room to stop safely). Do not park along Route 519 outside of the marked lot, as traffic can be heavy.
Inside the Venue
Walking in, visitors enter a utilitarian firehouse interior. You’ll see firefighting gear hanging on walls, helmets and trophies on display, and the bay doors lining one side. The floor is concrete or tile, often covered with mats or carpets where needed. The main hall is heated by ceiling furnaces or baseboard heaters (though air conditioning is usually minimal, so summer events may be warm). Beneath event banners you may find a kitchen area behind the scenes – events often use their own caterers or pizza deliveries rather than staff-prepared food. In fact, local restaurants frequently sponsor the meals (for example, a past spaghetti supper was sponsored by a Wantage pizzeria (www.spartaindependent.com )). There is a small stage or podium area that organizers bring in for performances or speakers. Basic lighting is overhead fluorescent unless an event brings special stage lights. Sound-wise, expect a basic public-address microphone or portable speaker – the hall itself doesn’t have a built-in concert sound system. The fire station’s connectivity is limited: there is no public Wi-Fi, and cell phone service can be spotty indoors, so texting or streaming is unreliable here. During events, the atmosphere is casual and communal. Coat racks or hooks may be provided. Restrooms (men’s and women’s) are on site along the side, including an ADA-compliant restroom (the event announcement explicitly noted “Handicap accessible” (www.spartaindependent.com )). There is no coat check, so wear layers if it’s cool. After-hours, when no events are scheduled, the building is locked – public access is only for scheduled functions.
Nearby Amenities
The firehouse sits in a sparsely populated area, so expect few shops or restaurants immediately adjacent. The closest cluster of amenities is along NJ Route 23 a few miles south in Wantage center. Notable nearby eateries include local favorites like Frank’s Pizza & Restaurant and the Acquaviva Restaurant & Bar (both casual sit-down spots), as well as the Skylands Craft Beer & Wine Garden (a brewpub popular among locals). These places offer American and Italian fare, and some have bars or outdoor seating. A Dunkin’ Donuts (for coffee or snacks) and a gas station convenience store are also on Route 23 about 3–4 miles away. In terms of lodging, the High Point Country Inn is the primary local hotel (officially at 1328 State Rt 23 North) (www.tripadvisor.com ); it has rooms and a restaurant/bar and is listed as the top-rated hotel in Wantage (www.tripadvisor.com ). Other inns or motels in the general area are a 10–15 minute drive. There are no shuttle buses for evening events, so attendees almost always drive. Rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) is unpredictable here—plan on driving yourself. Finally, families might note that Space Farms (a zoo and museum at 218 County Rd 519, roughly a mile north of the firehouse) is a nearby attraction during daylight hours, though it closes earlier than evening events. In short, plan to grab dinner or supplies in Wantage village before arriving, as late-night food and transit are limited.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Beemerville Firehouse stands out because of its earnest, hometown character. It’s not polished or high-tech, but it’s beloved for keeping community spirit alive. Unique architectural and design touches include the functional fire station features – big garage doors, firefighter-branded décor, and the ever-present fire engines – that guests see alongside picnic tables and folding chairs. Unlike modern event centers, it doesn’t have gilded ornamentation or a flashy facade; instead, its historic importance is old-school and local. On any given weekend you might see volunteers in uniform, antique fire trucks on display, or even doughnuts cooling in the kitchen – reminders that this is a working fire hall doubling as an event space. Cultural significance comes from tradition: locals have grown up attending Easter egg hunts or Santa visits starting here, and past fundraising milestones (周年 dinners, fire company anniversaries) were all marked in this hall. Both performers and audiences tend to love the firehouse for its intimacy: a band or speaker is literally less than 30 feet from every seat, so the crowd feels connected. Artists often comment that it's a cozy, receptive audience when they perform here. Finally, the rural setting – among fields and old farmhouses – gives a relaxed, scenic backdrop. In short, this venue is special not for gloss or luxury but for its genuine community warmth and the charm of seeing civic life up close.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The firehouse hall is wheelchair accessible (www.spartaindependent.com ) and has an ADA-compliant restroom. Senior or disabled visitors should have no problem getting in. **What to Bring:** Most events are casual, so dress in comfortable clothing (jeans and a nice shirt or sweater is fine). Always carry cash – many fundraisers sell tickets or food at the door and may not take cards. Some events provide giveaway items (for example, the 5K run gave away t-shirts to early registrants (www.spartaindependent.com )). **Arrival:** Gates often open a bit early (the tricky-tray event opened at 6:30pm (www.spartaindependent.com )), so arriving 15–20 minutes before the listed start time is wise to find parking and seats. **Age and Family:** Note that some events (especially those involving gambling/raffles) require guests to be 18 or older (www.spartaindependent.com ). Child-friendly activities (like pancake breakfasts or open houses) are usually announced separately. If bringing children, confirm beforehand. **Food and Drink:** The venue itself does not have a bar or concessions except during catered events. Hosts often bring in local caterers or pizza delivery. Alcohol is generally not served by the building, so any beer/wine must come from the event organizers. Outside food – like snacks or picnics – is typically not provided, so plan to eat at the event (dinner tickets or potluck) or before/after at a nearby restaurant. **Parking and Safety:** As noted, parking is free on site (www.spartaindependent.com ). After dark, stay in well-lit areas of the lot. Do not block any fire equipment or doors; volunteer firefighters (or police on duty) may ask violators to move. **Etiquette:** This is a community space – consider making a small donation even if admission is free, and tidy up your area before you leave. **Connectivity:** The building offers no Wi-Fi and spotty cell coverage; avoid relying on mobile internet. If you need directions at the last minute, download maps or ask someone at the door. **Common Mistakes:** People sometimes expect a grand theater and are surprised by the simplicity. Embrace the local vibe. Others arrive late and find seats up front taken – so earlier is better. **Final Note:** Because it’s a fire station, expect a friendly, no-pressure atmosphere. Volunteers will often chat and make newcomers feel welcome. Enjoy the down-to-earth experience and remember that the priority here is community support, not glitz.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is at 227 County Road 519 in Wantage, NJ?
That address is the Beemerville Fire Station (Wantage Township Fire Dept, Company #1). It’s a volunteer firehouse and community hall (wantagetwp.com ). In other words, it’s not a nightclub or shopping center, but the local fire station building, which doubles as an event venue for community functions.
How can I get tickets to events held at this venue?
There’s no box office at the firehouse. Tickets are usually sold by the event organizers or at the door on the day of the event. For example, a spaghetti dinner fundraiser once sold $8 tickets at the entrance (www.spartaindependent.com ). In practice, you contact the sponsoring group (church, school club, or the fire department’s auxiliary) to reserve or buy tickets. Some events also allow online pre-registration (often via a local website), but most expect you to pay cash on arrival. In short, check the event announcement for ordering instructions, as it’s handled through the host rather than the fire station itself.
Is the firehouse accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes. The building was noted as "Handicap accessible" in local event notices (www.spartaindependent.com ). There is at least one elevator-free entrance ramp and an ADA-compliant restroom inside. Wheelchair users and people with limited mobility should be able to enter and use the main event hall without issue. (Still, if you have specific concerns, it’s a good idea to call the organizers ahead of time.)
Where should I park my car when attending an event?
Parking is available onsite. The firehouse has its own parking area right next to the building, and it’s free during events (www.spartaindependent.com ). When you arrive, just drive into the lot and park in the available spots. (For nighttime safety, try to park near the light poles and avoid blocking the garage doors – those need to stay clear.) Since this is a rural location, there’s no official valet or public transit stop, so plan to drive yourself or get dropped off.
Are there age restrictions for events at this venue?
It depends on the event. Fundraisers involving raffles or bars often require attendees to be 18 or older (one 2016 event specifically stated “Participants must be over 18” (www.spartaindependent.com )). Family-friendly gatherings (like pancake breakfasts or community bazaars) are usually open to all ages. Always read the event flyer: it will note any age rules. When in doubt, contact the event sponsor. If children are allowed, they’re typically welcome if accompanied by an adult.
Is food or drink sold at the firehouse?
The fire station itself doesn’t have a snack bar or liquor license, but most events there do serve something. Organizers usually bring in caterers or pizza deliveries (for example, local pizza shops have sponsored past dinners (www.spartaindependent.com )). Coffee, soda, and sometimes beer/wine are sold at the bar table, depending on the event. There’s typically no full kitchen open to the public, so dinner is only available if it’s part of the program (with a ticket or purchase). Alcoholic drinks are handled by the event hosts (beer is common at a “beefsteak” dinner, for instance) rather than the firehouse management.
Does the venue have a coat check, Wi-Fi, or other facilities?
No, the firehouse is fairly bare-bones. There is no coat check or paid checkroom; guests usually just hang coats on coat racks or chairs. Also, there is no public Wi-Fi and cell service can be weak indoors. If you need an internet connection, it’s best to arrange before you arrive. There are restrooms (including an accessible one), but beyond that, amenities are minimal – think of it more like a large community hall than a modern convention center.
Can I rent the firehouse for my own private event?
Possibly, but with restrictions. The hall is officially part of the Wantage Twp Fire Dept. (Beemerville Station), so rentals would need to be arranged through them or the township. It’s not primarily a commercial hall, so major events have priority. Typically, local organizations (like school, church, or civic groups) get first dibs. If you have a small private party in mind, you’d have to contact the fire company or town officials to check availability. Be prepared to sign a contract and supply your own event staff (e.g. someone familiar with the building), since the fire department volunteers are busy with emergencies.
What transportation options exist for reaching this address?
The venue is in a rural area, so public transit is not available. The only practical way in is by car. The nearest major road is NJ Route 23; from there you turn onto County Road 519 and drive until you see the fire station. (GPS and maps recognize the fire department’s name or address.) Rideshare services are very limited in this part of Sussex County, so it’s best to drive or carpool. Once there, parking is on the large lot at the station (free for guests (www.spartaindependent.com )).
What are any special policies or rules for visitors?
As a community firehouse, rules are mostly common sense. Large bags or alcohol (unless provided by the event) may be discouraged. Since it’s a working fire station, do not block any fire trucks or exits, and follow any instructions from staff. Smoking is not allowed inside, so go outside and use designated areas (away from the wood of the building). Photography is generally fine at public events, but be respectful during prayer or solemn ceremonies. Most importantly, remember it’s a volunteer-run facility – be polite, follow event guidelines, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
