OTown History

Tucked away within the charming town of Orangetown, Piermont, New York, is a quaint village boasting a population of approximately 2,500 residents. This picturesque destination draws visitors from far and wide, enticing them with its wealth of history, vibrant farmers’ markets, and scenic riverside dining experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a tranquil getaway, Piermont has something for everyone.

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A pivotal moment in Piermont’s history occurred around 1832 with the formation of the fire department. The New York and Erie Railroad employees took the initiative to establish a fire department to safeguard their property as the railroad shops began construction. This proactive step inspired local residents, not employed by the railroad, to recognize the need for a community fire department.

Coinciding with this development, a fundraising effort was underway to support the establishment of a nearby fire company, further underscoring the importance of fire safety in the growing village.

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On October 25th, 1851, a significant transaction took place at a trustees’ meeting. James Smith of New York City presented an invoice for $630.10, accounting for the purchase of a piece of apparatus. Concurrently, a resolution was passed requesting William Christie, a resident of Piermont, to compile a list of individuals interested in joining a fire company to operate Fire Engine Number Two, recently acquired by the Village. Once Christie gathered twenty names, he was instructed to report back to the village president, marking a crucial step in the formation of Piermont’s fire department.

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On October 7, 1851, the first set of rules for the Piermont Fire Department was established, with some of these original regulations still in effect today. Benjamin P. Westervelt was appointed the first Foreman, equivalent to the modern-day Fire Chief.

In 1853, the Village built its first firehouse at a cost of $700, marking a significant milestone in the department’s development. The following year, reservoirs were constructed throughout the Village, providing a reliable water source until 1901, when water mains were installed. Additionally, a horse jumper was purchased in 1860, further enhancing the department’s capabilities. These early developments laid the foundation for the fire department’s growth and service to the community.

In February 1868, the Piermont Fire Department underwent a significant transformation with the purchase of two Davidson fire engines from the City of Albany. The engines, delivered in May 1868, cost $1,704.08 and represented a major upgrade in firefighting capabilities. To offset the cost, the Village sold the original engine purchased from the City of New York in 1850 to the Nanuet Fire Department. Interestingly, this historic engine is now on display at the New York City Fire Museum, serving as a reminder of Piermont’s rich firefighting heritage.

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In 1870, the Village acquired a lot and built a new firehouse at a cost of $2,000, further solidifying the fire department’s presence in the community. Twenty-one years later, in January 1891, the department upgraded its equipment with the purchase of a steam engine from the Button Steam Engine Company for $1,800. The first motorized fire engine was an innovative conversion of a donated automobile by the fire company members themselves. This pioneering effort was later replaced by a Mack Hose Cart in October 1914, which served the department faithfully until 1926, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Piermont’s firefighting capabilities.

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In 1914, the Village sold one of its firehouses, Protection Engine Company #2, for $35,000, as the company had been dissolved. At that time, the only remaining fire company in operation was the Empire Steam Engine Company #1, which continues to serve the community to this day. This consolidation marked a significant change in the organization of Piermont’s firefighting services, streamlining resources and efforts under a single company.

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In 1926, the fire department upgraded its fleet with the purchase of a 750-gallon Ahrens-Fox engine, which served the community reliably for over two decades. Tragically, this apparatus was involved in a devastating accident in 1949, when it crashed on slippery pavement in Oradell, New Jersey, while returning from a convention parade. The incident resulted in injuries to fourteen brave firemen, marking a somber moment in the department’s history.

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In 1932, the fire department enhanced its capabilities with the purchase of a Studebaker emergency truck, designed to carry essential lights and equipment.

Twenty years later, in 1952, the fire company seized an opportunity to expand its services by acquiring an ambulance, funded entirely by the firemen themselves. This ambulance was subsequently replaced in 1953, 1971, and 1979 with more modern and advanced vehicles, all financed by the company’s own funds.

Additionally, in 1951, two state-of-the-art Peter Pirsch pumper trucks were added to the fleet, boasting capacities of 750 and 500 gallons per minute, respectively, significantly bolstering the department’s firefighting prowess.

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In 1956, the Piermont Fire Department took a pioneering step by establishing an underwater rescue team, a groundbreaking addition to the volunteer firemen’s duties. This innovative initiative was spearheaded by Chief Thomas Sedlack, along with members Franck McDonald and Phil DeLorenzo, in response to the devastating drownings that had occurred in the area.

On March 11, 1956, the Piermont Fire Department Underwater Rescue Team was officially formed, marking a significant expansion of the department’s capabilities and commitment to protecting the community. This visionary move not only enhanced the department’s emergency response but also paved the way for future water rescue operations.

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The Piermont Fire Department continued to modernize and expand its fleet in the latter half of the 20th century.

In 1969, a Maxim pumper with a capacity of 1,000 gallons per minute was added to the department’s arsenal. Nine years later, in 1978, an International/Continental pumper with the same capacity replaced the 1951 Pirsch pumper, which had served the community for over two decades. Another International/Continental pumper was purchased in 1980, further enhancing the department’s firefighting capabilities.

In 1982, a new rescue truck was acquired, funded entirely by the membership’s fundraising efforts.

This versatile vehicle not only transported the underwater rescue team and equipment but also served as a backup ambulance, demonstrating the department’s commitment to providing comprehensive emergency services.

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Do you want to help make a difference in the village?

Stop by the firehouse on any Monday at 7pm to pick up an application.