Mr. Applegate was educated in Public School No. 1, in Hoboken. In 1870, at the age of seventeen, he went to sea with his father, who was master and part owner of a sailing vessel engaged in the coasting trade. In 1874 he was promoted to the position of first mate, and in 1876 he became master of the same vessel. Afterward he entered the employ of William N. Parslow, a prominent undertaker in Hoboken, with whom he remained until June 1, 1891, when the paid fire department was organized and he was made its Chief Engineer. Mr. Applegate became a member of the old Hoboken Volunteer Fire Department by joining Engine Company No. 1 in May, 1877, and continued in that company until the department was disbanded. During this time he represented his company two terms of one year each in the Board of Representatives of the Widows' and Orphans' Relief Fund, and during five terms of one year each was the company's foreman. He served as Chief Engineer of the Volunteer Fire Department during the years 1889 and 1890, until the organization of the present paid department on June 1, 1891, when he was appointed Chief Engineer, which position he still holds, having been three times elected Chief to succeed himself. He was the last Chief of the old Volunteer Fire Department and the first Chief of the present paid department of the City of Hoboken, and has probably done more than any other one man toward placing the department upon a substantial basis and affording the city that excellent protection from fires which has long been its pride. He is one of the leading fire chiefs in the State, being well known not only in this section but throughout New Jersey for his efficient executive ability and courage. He was influential in bringing about the movement which resulted in the organization of the present paid fire department of Hoboken, and from the first has been indefatigable in making it one of the best protective bodies in the State. He is a member of Euclid Lodge, No. 136, F. and A. M., a public spirited and progressive citizen, and actively identified with the public and social life of his native city. During his entire career he has maintained the confidence, respect, and esteem of the community.