|
Wiccopee Fire Company
From humble beginnings as a rural fire department situated among acres and acres of farmland to a fire company that now services a vastly growing community.
Wiccopee Fire Company, the youngest fire company in the East Fishkill Fire District, was formed in 1954. The company originated with a few men talking it over at the Wiccopee General Store and around the community. The first meeting was held in Town Hall at Gayhead on September 22nd, 1953. Soon, officers were elected, the constitution and bylaws were drawn up, and incorporated papers were applied for.
Committees were appointed to find ways and means of raising money to buy fire apparatus and land on which to build. In 1954. the company purchased its first vehicle from the Dutchess County Airport for $1.00. The vehicle was put in good running order with the able assistance of Irv Mackenzie, and painted with supplies donated by Roy Ketcham. On October 27th, 1954, the incorporation papers were received. A company with a fire engine and no place to house it. First, it was placed in Henry Hussing's yard and then in Mr. Morganthau's coach barn. Finally, after raising money for two years, construction on the building began in 1956. After the walls were erected, the company members took over, laid the roof, and finished the interior. In October 1956, the first meeting in the new station was held.
In 1957, a 1941 Ford from Rhinecliff was purchased and placed into service. Wiccopee's first call was on March 14th, 1957: a grass fire on Shenandoah Road. Since then, there have been five additions to the building, bringing the square footage to over 10,000. In 1984, to better protect the residents of the Shenandoah area, the Wiccopee Substation was built and dedicated.
The Wiccopee Fire Company Main station currently houses one engine, one pumper tanker, and one utility vehicle. The Wiccopee Fire Company Substation currently houses one engine and one pumper tanker.
With the continued hard work, sacrifice, and dedication of its members and their families, the Wiccopee Fire Company continues to grow and serve the community.
For more info about the Wiccopee Fire Company visit our Facebook page!
|
