Below is a detailed history of the Altamont Volunteer Fire Department.  This history was composed by Roger W. Keenholts and Owen Murray, and originally printed by Altamont Enterprise Printing.  I've scanned and converted it to text format for use on the Altamont Volunteer Fire Departments website only.  A short version that was written later can be found here.

INTRODUCTION

1983 could be called "The Year of History," for it is the 300th Anniversary of the creation of Albany County, the 180th Anniversary of the incorporation of the Town of Guilderland, and for the citizens of Altamont and the surrounding area, it is the 90th Anniversary of the formation of the Altamont Fire Department.

This brief volume highlights some of the events, big and small, which are a part of the department's history. It is not "The" history of the department, but, rather, "A" history, for that final record cannot be written until that un-hoped for time when the Altamont Fire Department ceases to exist. Many hours have been spent reading the complete minutes of the department and volumes of "THE ALTAMONT ENTERPRISE" to compile this record. It has been a rewarding, enlightening and sometimes frustrating experience! The reader's attention is called to the use of parentheses enclosing a single name; the enclosed name is the present owner of the property.

It is interesting to note that the number 23 has occurred twice in the creation of the units which comprise the present Altamont Fire Department: the original rolls of the Altamont Hose Company and the Ladies Auxiliary each contained twenty-three names.

As the tenth decade of service begins, may the members of the Altamont Fire Department renew their spirit of dedication to the department and to the citizens whom they serve.

A HISTORY

When the first passenger train passed through here on September 16, 1863, there were but one-half dozen homes within the area which today comprises the Village of Altamont. Within twenty years that same area was a thriving, growing community boasting most all the important aspects of village life appropriate to the times. The only fire known was in 1884 when "the old hay barn near the depot" "as razed. Then. on Friday, April 30, 1886 about 11 p.m. the tragedy struck-FIRE! The ALBANY JOURNAL, of May 1, 1886 reported on the fire, in part, as follows:

RUINS IN KNOWERSVILLE

Almost an entire block destroyed - Seven buildings wiped out - Two lodge rooms and several stores effaced - Inadequate Fire Department Loss between $15.000 and $20.000.

A tall brick chimney. several small stacks of ice and portions of foundations, rose above the smoking ruins of the Lockwood Block on Church Street (Maple Ave.) in Knowersville today. Household effects and the stock of merchants were spread on lawns where hurriedly placed last night, while flames crept from an incipient start to alarming proportions, and failed to travel further only for want of material to feed upon ... Help was at hand but want of water made the battle difficult. The flames travelled fast and in a short time the entire block of frame buildings was one mass of seething roaring flame. The origin of the fire is in doubt, some think it an incendiary, others think it ignited from the careless throwing of a cigar . . . the village owns a hand engine but there are no large cisterns from which to obtain water Starting in the hallway leading to the Good Templars' lodgeroom, in the building occupied by Davenport & Frederick Druggists, the fire moved to the sheds in the rear which connect the isolated buildings. Next came the carriage manufactory of Van Benscoten & Warner to the north, and the shoe store of James Ostrander and tin shop of Charles I abet to the south. The carriage "orks contained the rooms of Noah Masonic lodge on the third floor ... then the blacksmith shop of John Friday, the harness shop of Frank Decker and the woodworking shop of A. H. Wilber with the apartment of Mrs. J. Frederick succumbed. This was the last structure on the west side of Church St. for some distance, so that the flames stopped here after reducing all to ashes.

Today, 1983, the area covered by that fire runs from the Keenholts Agency to the Altamont Wallpaper & Paint Store. A week later, May 9th, the ENTERPRISE reporting on the week's events, carried an item concerning another fire about 10 p.m. Mrs. F. Mvnderse, who lived in an apartment in the newly erected Pangburn Store, smelled smoke. Upon investigation a lighted candle was found under a buffalo robe in a wooden box in the cellar, the window of which had been forced open. A strong wind was blowing that night, and, had the fire not been detected early on, would no doubt have resulted in another major blaze in the heart of the business area on Church Street. Then, on June 4. 1886, the John Friday house burned to the ground. It was the same John Friday who had lost his blacksmith shop in the "Great Fire" of April!

These events quickly led to the calling of a meeting of all concerned citizens, at the Knowerville Hotel, to propose ways and means of securing water and fire protection. The May 22 meeting, chaired by Mr. Hiram Griggs - later the first president (mayor) of Altamont - addressed itself to the lack of an adequate water supply and the need for a hose company. Mr. Griggs admonished his fellow citizens for "the neglect of the old hand engine long since thrown aside," Mr. William Strevell offered to sell the citizens, through a proposed water corporation, land on which to construct a reservoir, while Dr. R. Barton proposed making good use of the steam pump at the depot, with the cooperation of the railroad, and acquiring 1,500 feet of hose - enough to reach the heart of the village - and a cart to cam the hose, and the formation of a hose company. A later meeting in June, after further investigation, recommended that a reservoir would be too costly, and that wells should be dug, a force pump bought and a hose company formed to maintain the wells, hose. cart and new hand engine.

No doubt the citizens soon realized that, having no legal authority to raise tax levies to cover the costs of these proposals, they should direct their attention to incorporating the area as a village. As a result, on October 18, 1890 the Village of Altamont was incorporated, the name Knowersville having been changed in 1887.

The first major project of the new village was the construction of a public water system. When the Board of Water Commissioners issued their first report that the system was complete and 17 double hydrants in operation, the village board, on March 24, 1893 held a referendum to approve the raising of $850.00 for the purchase of hose and apparatus to extinguish fires. The new taxpayers approved this action by a vote of 21 to 6. The ENTERPRISE said of the outcome that, "Altamont will thus move yet a step closer in the furthering of adequate protection from fire, and will place herself in the front ranks with those communities which seek the best interests of the citizens. Altamont takes no step backward. She does the right thing furnishing the necessary appliances for the convenience and protection of her citizens. With a good water plant in operation and the organization of a hose company there need be no fear of loss by fire . . . NOW let us have a well organized hose company!"

The village board quickly responded and appointed twenty-five citizens to meet and form a hose company. Those first members were: Frederick Allen, Leshe Allen, Edward Becker, Lewis Becker, Charles V. Beebe, Anthony Cary, Alva Crounse, George Fellows, George J. Hallenbeck, Alvenus Hurst, Jesse Livingston, Albert Manchester, Emmett Mynderse. Junius Ogsbury, Aaron Oliver, John Pangburn, Jay Reinhart, Eugene Sand, Montford Sand, Elias Stafford, Joseph Snyder, James 0. Stitt. Matthew Tice, Emmet Van Auken and Charles B. Warner. On May 8, 1893 twenty-three of those twenty-five named met at the hall of the Union Hotel and signed the roll; only Hallenbeck and Tice failed to appear. Thus was the Altamont Hose Company No. I created as the first, and for twenty-five years the only, fire company in the Town of Guilderland. Elected as officers were: A.J. Manchester, Foreman (chief); E. Mynderse, Assistant Foreman; and John Pangburn, Secretary-Treasurer. Most of these men were in business in the village and their presence assured a full compliment of men and a quick response to any alarm of fire.

By May 22, 1893 a set of By-laws had been adopted and a hose cart and hose selected and a week later the first floor of the Temperance Hall (McCutcheon) on Lincoln Avenue had been secured for $25.00 per Year as a "hose house." On June It), 1893 the president authorized the purchase of the hose cart and 1,000 feet of hose front the Fabric Fire Hose Company of New York City, along with other necessities to light fires for $595.00. The board also approved the expenditure of up to $40.00 to refurbish the Hose Company room. The members soon began to train and on June 23 held a hose laying drill, which the ENTERPRISE reported on, ''Last Monday evening prior to meeting the hose company held a hose laying competition. The race was won not by the swiftest, for the team captained by M. A. Sand proved the more dexterous. The scene was enjoyed more by the spectators than the participants who were not accustomed to running, especially at such distance!" By August 4, 1893 the paper could further report that:

"The new hose cart has arrived and has been accepted as meeting all the agreement conditions. It is a thing of beauty and has all the necessary equipment of a first class affair. The cart carries 2 pipes and different size nozzles, apparatus for attaching to hydrants, 2 torches and a new arrangement for winding hose, an axe and other attachments. The hose is a fine affair, of best quality. The cart will carry 700 feet of hose, and the company will not be satisfied until they finish the facilities to handle the full 1,000 feet purchased. The company is proud of the hose cart and now plans means to secure hooks and ladders . . . To say that Al Manchester is proud of his new pet is not letting half the story. It is a thing of beauty and challenges the admiration of everybody who has seen it."

For the next thirty-two years, this hose cart, like others in thousands of small villages, remained the sole piece of fire fighting apparatus. The minutes of the meetings reveal that not a great deal has changed over the years; equipment needed and purchased, resignations and elections of members, quarters for the apparatus, and how to get more money were - and still are - some of the items of business and concern. One of the first concerns of the members was an alarm system, and the solution was a series of cards showing the numbered location of the hydrant nearest a fire, this corresponding to the number of tolls of the bell on the Lutheran Church.

In June 1893, the uniforms committee reported back with samples and the members selected a dark blue blouse, trimmed in red, belts and hats to match, and the monogram in white. The village board allocated $165.00 towards the uniforms, with the stipulation that each member pay anything in excess of $5.00 AND provide his own trousers.

To help keep the treasury solvent a system of fines was instituted early and remained in effect until November 1946. This method of financing soon proved insufficient to cover all the expenses, so other types of fund raisers were tried. In August 1893 a Firemen's Field Day was held, and the monies realized from this event were used to purchase a wagon for $182.00, ladders for $21.00, and six leather buckets, axe and crowbar for $29.05. The Field Day in 1894 netted enough money to purchase a parade trumpet for the Foreman. Another fund raiser was the presentation of plays or "drammas," (sic) the first being entitled "The Mountain Waif." The proceeds from this play, presented in both Altamont and Quaker Street, helped defray the costs of two nozzles and four lanterns.

During those early years - the age of balloon frame buildings, wood burning stoves and oil and gas lamps the ever present danger from fire prompted the how company to establish a policy that, whenever the company should be absent from the village, each member was responsible for supplying an able-bodied substitute to respond to a fire alarm. This plan also served to provide a supply of new recruits and replacements in the regular roster when vacancies occurred.

Three events of note took place during 1896. The Altamont Hose Company joined the Firemen's Association of the State of New York, Fireman J. L. Smith presented the company with a cart, which, when fitted up and painted, was presented to the Active How & Ladder Co., of Cobleskill, and the company bought new uniforms. At the annual elections held in March, the village taxpayers approved the raising of $400.00 necessary for the purchase. The Henderson Company, of Philadelphia, promptly supplied the beige wool frock coats with brass buttons, matching trousers with black stripe, belts and matching caps, and white leather "drill helmets." This was to be the hose company's uniform for the next 13 years.

A winter fair held in February 1898 netted the company $652.00. The treasury was further increased when the Foreman and Assistant Foreman were fined five dollars each "for leaving company property outside the hose room," and member John Pangburn donated two spitoons!

The records of 1899 and 1900 reveal nothing of special note, but, two items front the ENTERPRISE reflect the interest which the community took in the Hose Company: concerning a fire at the Dutcher house on Maple Ave. (the name of the street "as changed at the time of village incorporation) on April 17, 1899, the paper reported that:

"The fire alarm last Monday at 6 o'clock was the roof at the Dutcher house, which was promptly extinguished b y the Hose Company using but pails . . . this experience again demonstrates the fact that the location of the hose rooms should be moved further up in town, for the present dragging of the appliance up-hill to reach most of the village only slows the response time as the men are fatigued after the long run to the present location."

The other item concerned a fire which destroyed the barn and severely damaged the house of Mrs. Julia Hilton on Lark Street (May-Meineker). The EN TERPRISE said of the fire that:

"But a small number of men from the hose company were in the village at the time, but our citizens turned out and gave valuable help and all who visit the ruins say that the fire must have been admirably handled to have thus confined it. Again we have cause to congratulate ourselves on our fine water plant and hose company, for without them the results would have been most disastrous. "

In March 1902, approval was given to a committee to purchase needed ladders, however by the time those suitable to the company's needs were located, the funds necessary were not available. At the same time another committee was authorized to alter the wagon, which carried the extra equipment, so that it could be drawn by either men or horses.

As the Altamont Hose Company's second decade began, the treasury was still very low. A committee was appointed and carried out its duties to arrange and present a "memorable Fourth of July (1903) celebration," and that it was a success is attested to by the financial report: $697.00 received, $412.00 expended including $100 for fireworks, leaving a profit of $284.55. The company had voted to spend part of this money on a parade trumpet for the Foreman when an 11 offer they could not refuse" was made. Mr. William K. "Dutch" Cornelius would pay for one trumpet, if the company would pay for a second trumpet to be used by the Captain. An invoice for that second trumpet, from Peter's Jewelers, for $21.00 was paid at the November 1903 meeting. Those same two trumpets are still in the possession of the fire department and proudly carried when the company parades.

To help raise funds the ways and means committee chose the staging of a drama. Unfortunately this plan was not too successful, as not enough people volunteered to fill the roles in the programs selected in 1902 through 1904. In September 1904 the village offices and hose company rooms were moved from Lincoln Avenue to Maple Avenue, first in the carriage works (Heins-Farnsworth) and, a short time later, next door in the relocated former school building (Fields). The company remained here until 1925 when garage space for the new Brockway truck prompted a move to a building at the rear of the former carriage works. There were efforts in 1905, 1911, 1915 and 1922 to erect a village hall and fire station, but each time plans were approved the taxpayers failed to provide the funds, It was in May 1905 that the company first joined the Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association. The only known fire during 1905 occurred on August 23 when the "Ladies Building" at the fairgrounds was destroyed. A major disaster was avoided because a watchman was on duty - it was Fair Week - and the direction of the strong winds changed.

"The Stolen Will" was the drama for 1908, netting a profit of $93.93. The company responded to at least five alarms during the year. On March 25, the Chatfield Stafford house on Prospect St. (T. Spohr) was heavily damaged by fire and the three streams used to extinguish it. This fire also prompted some comments, in the ENTERPRISE writeup, on the alarm system and its weakness - the pull cord had broken as the alarm was rung. On Sunday morning, April 25 another fire occurred, the hay barn belonging to the Hayes Mill. Again the alarm system was wanting, for the alarm occurred at the same hour that the church bell was rung for worship. Only the repeated sounding of the whistle on a locomotive alerted the citizens and hose company to the danger. Three lesser fires occurred on May 5, June 12 and June 28.

There were several resignations of 'long term' members during 1908, due no doubt, to the efforts to form a second hose company, made up solely of exempt firemen. By December this plan had been adandoned and most of those who had resigned later rejoined the company. At some point during the year the company had secured the loan of a "chemical engine" from Schenectady, which, after testing, cleaning and painting, was returned, In the fall the company began to again look at a uniform change. 

In January 1909 the new uniforms were ordered from Hendricks & Co., consisting of dark green jackets, trousers and caps, all trimmed with red piping. The drama, a successful presentation, for this year was "O'Day the Alderman" and netted the treasury $49.01. Concerning a fire on April 17, 1909 the ENTERPRISE said:

"The fire at the Hayes mill was confined to the third floor. The building was not much damaged but the large supply of buckwheat and oats in storage "ere much ruined due to the large amounts of water required. The boys worked with a will and our village has a right to feel proud of its hose company and equipment ... the heavy section ladder, which was added to the equipment some time ago, came in handy on this occasion. No ordinary ladder could reach to three stories and hold 2 or 3 men and hose filled with water."

Another fire at Crounse's (?) in September damaged 100 feet of hose, which the village was asked to replace in the next budget levy.

Plans for a building were presented at the Jul - y 1911 meeting, but did not with approval al. for in May 1912 another building committee was appointed to come up with a satisfactory plan. On October 9, 1911 the company responded to a major fire at the sheds and hall of the Reformed Church on Lincoln Avenue. Oddly enough no write up of this fire was located in the ENTERPRISE.

On August 14, 1912 the hose company attended the field day sponsored by the Middleburgh Fire Department. The silver plated plaque won that day still hangs in the department meeting room and the picture post-card of the parade remains the only evidence of the ''cut" of those green wool uniforms purchased in 1909.

The third decade was heralded by the purchase of an official seal in January 1913. On February 12, 1914 the first annual Firemen's Ball was held at the "Hotel Altamont'' (Ketchum's Mobil). Each member was asked to supply ten sandwiches and appear in uniform. The cost of the ticket was one dollar with "extra lady free!?" The profit was $26.25! In late December 1914 the Benjamin Crounse building (removed) on Prospect Terrace, which housed "Wood's Bakery" and three families, was severely damaged by a fire caused by a defective kerosene stove. Mr. Wood promptly purchased the former Masonic Hall on Lincoln Avenue - the building which had housed the hose company from 1893 to 1904.

By 1915 the alarm system set up in 1906 sorely needed revamping. The company recommended to the village board that a locomotive 'tire' be obtained and erected in, or near, the park. The board took no action in this matter until 1916 when, electricity having been brought to the village, an electric alarm system was purchased and installed. At the same time electric lights were placed in the hose company's room.

On July 17, 1917, the Altamont Hose Company attended the field day sponsored by the newly formed McKownville Fire Department. Unfortunately the event failed to gain the cooperation of "mother nature," it rained 'torrents' according to the ENTERPRISE's report a week later. (The original invitation from Chief Haggerty is still in the department files.)

In view of the war conditions in 1918, the annual ball was cancelled, and due to the number of members serving in the armed forces, the active roster was increased to 40 members. The By-laws were also amended to provide exemptions for those members serving their country.

On October 1, 1919 an alarm brought the company to what became a double blaze, when the George Weaver house and James Kirk barn burned. The house roof had been ignited by a spark from the fireplace - this was still the age of wood shingles. Firemen were on the scene within five minutes of the alarm and soon had two lines working. Although the roof and attic were badly burned, it was the lower floors which suffered most - so much water! As it was early afternoon, a large crowd (over 100) gathered and gave great assistance in removing the household goods to safety. Just as the fire appeared out and the crowd dispersing, someone gave an alarm of "Fire! " Apparently a spark had been carried to the Kirk barn roof, and it being deteriorated, the spark fell upon some stored hay. A third line was soon extinguishing the blaze without serious loss of property.

At the March 7, 1921 meeting, "everyone enjoyed a smoke from the box of cigars sent up by Dr. Cullen." In May 1921, the company again ordered new uniforms: 26 "West Point Cadet" style gray wool with black trim and matching caps, costing $27.00 each, "with an option to buy 4 more, at the same price within six months." During the January 1922 meeting the members quickly approved a motion to purchase a pool table and two card tables and chairs for the company room. The pool table cost $225.00.

As the fourth decade began, a resolution was sent to the village board urging the purchase of "a motor truck and chemicals for the extinguishing of fires. " Both the village board and the hose company began inquiries concerning a motor truck, which finally resulted in the biggest change for the department in thirty-two years. An item in the May 8, 1925 ENTERPRISE reported that:

"The Altamont Hose Company buys chemical truck. Altamont is to have a new fire fighting apparatus. Through the efforts of the local hose company and the cooperation of the village board, and the citizens of the village, the company has ordered an American La France automobile chemical truck which also has space to carry 1,000 ft. of hose. It is to cost $3,850 and is mounted on a Brockway chassis. A new fire alarm system is to be set up consisting of 4 siren whistles that work automatically by electricity."

The new truck arrived, via rail, on July 15, 1925. The ENTERPRISE of July 24 carried a front page story on the truck:

"The new truck ordered by the Altamont Hose Co. for fighting fires in this village and vicinity arrived and was unloaded last Saturday. The boys are proud of their new apparatus and well they may be, for it is an up-to-date machine capable of making 50 mph if necessary. Built on a Brockway chassis it is painted bright red. It will carry 1,000 ft. of 21/2 inch hose and 16 men. There are two 35 gallon chemical tanks which are very effective. Space is provided for a water pump which can be purchased later at additional cost. It cost nearly S4,000, and it is understood that a large part of that amount has already been raised, and the firemen will seek further contributions from those whose property will receive added protection as a result of the purchase. The company gave a demonstration at the fairgrounds and will give another Saturday to familiarize the members with its use. Those drills are necessary and residents should not think that the firemen are just 'playing' with the new machine. The new sirens will arrive shortly and when placed at prominent points the village "ill feel ready for any emergency which may arise."

The old hose cart and ladder wagon were retained as "back up" units.
It was six months before the new truck "as "put to the test.'' On January 25, 1926 the company answered an alarm at the Helderberg Motor Co. building (Convenient Food Mart site). Again the ENTERPRISE furnished a full account:
"Altamont "as visited in the early hours of Monday with the most destructive fire that has occurred here for many years with the burning of the garage. I lie building was a one story frame garage adjoining the former Commercial Hotel, and had been remodeled in front for the Ford agency of Lane & Salsburgh. The fire "as discovered about 2 a.m. Blowing of the w histle on the D&H locomotive A which remains overnight aided materially in arousing the village. The hose company - responded with their new chemical truck and did excellent service in saving the adjoining properties, including the former hotel now used as residences and a store. Besides the building, also lost "ere a shipment of 12 new cars and the 2 vehicles and supplies of Jesse Cowan, the electrician. Firemen remained on the scene until 7:30 Monday Monday morning. This was the first fire to occur since the purchase of the, new apparatus."

According to the records only two other fires occurred in 1926, and both in May, a grass fire and a dining car on a D&H train. It was a year before the hose company "as again called to a village fire, and that was directly opposite the site of the first call to which the Brockway responded. On May 9, 1927, Voss's Hotel ( Ketchum's Mobil), a large, three storied frame structure was seriously damaged by fire, Twenty-Five of the thirty active firemen were on duty at this blaze and a mutual aid call was sent to Guilderland Center for their Ford Pumper During the preceding August of 1926. Altamont had responded with the chemical truck to assist Guilderland Center when the vacant Hurst Feed Mill was destroyed by flames. InterestingIy, this building had recently been bought by an Altamont businessman. Millard Frink, who planned to move it and establish an expanded hay marketing operation. The building had to be moved to allow construction of the railroad overpass at "the Center." That proposed site is today the same area where the former Agway Bulk Fuel Depot was just razed to make room for the new overpass and industrial park access road!

Three other blazes are known to have occurred during 1921. Two were barn fires. I hen. on December 29, 192", the Fort Orange Feed Store, located at the corner of Park Street and Fairview Avenue. burned to the ground. Discovered about 8:45 p.m.. the fire had made great headway by the time the hose company arrived. The ENTERPRISE reported the next day that:

"The firemen responded but were unable to master the blaze ... they had three lines on the fire, but this only served to lessen the pressure to reach the upper floors. The Guilderland Center firemen responded with their pumper and aided greatly. Everything about the mill was so inflammable that the fire, when held in check in one quarter, would break out in another ... the blaze broke through the roof about one hour after the alarm and by midnight had leveled the building ... firemen kept streams of water on the ruins to protect the adjoining property of Mrs. Haves. Fortunately no wind was blowing and the temperature "as moderate ... firemen remained on the scene until about 9 a.m. . . . The NEED of a pumper for the fire department has once again been demonstrated in a most effective and costly manner ... A pump should be ordered at once and attached to the motor truck already owned by the village.

That pump finally arrived in September 1945.

January 1929 saw the creation of the position of lieutenant and the first appointments of the monthly ''truck committee.- During May the members Noted to deed over to the village the company owned lot on Maple Avenue, with the stipulation that it be used as the site to erect a village hall and fire station. Then, on October 29, ''Black Tuesday,'' the stock market crashed and with it the plans to build a village building in the near future. Undaunted, by April 1931 the company presented another proposal for a building; the village board approved the proposition and began to seek construction bids. By August 1932 the construction "as underway The hose company pledged $1,000.00 of their own funds and took out a $1,500.00 construction loan. as well as actively canvassing the citizens for donations. 1932 also saw a proposal to return the old hose cart to Altamont, through a $20.00 purchase from the newly formed Guilderland Fire Department.

The fifth decade began on an auspicious note; a contract was awarded Jacob May, who had built the firehouse, to install a concrete driveway and ramp in front of that building for $110.00. The Altamont Hose Company was one of the six departments which gave mutual aid to Voorheesville when the Vunck Feed Mill was destroyed by fire on October 12, 1934. That the Brockway had responded to few calls. most of which were local. during its first decade of service, is reflected by the request sent to the village board in October 1934. The board w as asked to replace ''two of the tires on the truck, which are original equipment." It "as 14 months before the board could meet this request - and then only to buy one tire'
1935 was a "banner year'' for the hose company: in February the Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Firemen's Association accepted Altamont's bid to host its annual convention and an additional piece of equipment "as acquired. The May 25 ENTERPRISE reported that:

"A squad car for the hose company will shortly be in use ... the machine, a Pierce-Arrow (touring car) was presented to the firemen by Franklin Townsend, one of our summer residents. It will be cut down and a new body built. Equipment similar to that used by city department squad cars will be purchased . . . the truck will be used particularly for out of town calls and brush fires where water is not available rendering the chemical truck useless. 'I his means that the village will never be left without protection when outside alarms are answered . . . the new squad car will be in service prior to the firemen's convention. It will be a needed and valuable addition to the department.''

The donor's son, Charles Townsend, served as the Grand Marshal for the convention parade in July, Being the 'hosts' for the convention called for some sprucing up,' thus, in May the company ordered 30 "regulation blue" uniforms with hats for $270.00 from the Apex Co. of Schenectady. In order to raise additional money, a raffle was selected as a means to help finance the convention. Member Howard Gage arranged for a new car to be given as the Grand Prize. The Depression Era song, "Hey Brother Can You Spare a Dime?" took on a new meaning! At ten cents a ticket, the winner would receive a 1935 Terraplane two-door coach valued at $714.00. Some 80 departments participated in the convention and the local treasury was boosted by a profit of $684.84.

In January 1936. the building loan note of $1,000 was refinanced from a "demand" type to a regular note at 5% interest. The same month, the Agawam Lane home of Dr. Harm Van Loon (Serafini) was totally destroyed by fire. At the March 1937 village election the taxpayers approved a proposition for the village to assume the $900.00 balance due on the building loan. About the same time, a meeting was held relative to establishing a First Aid Station in Altamont, and 15 company members signed up to take the required courses. By July 1937, the First Aid Station and Squad were firmly organized, largely through the efforts of fireman Edmund Lape and Miss Mary Wasson, an Altamont resident who was yen active in the county Red Cross.

At the October 1937 meeting the company's village representative was directed to find out if the village could cover the costs of refitting the squad car to more fully meet the company's needs. Apparently nothing came of this, for the December 1939 minutes show approval to sell the squad car for "whatever it will bring." I he March 1940 treasurer's report lists, "receipts, squad car - $10.00."

During 1938 the company responded to four mutual aid calls: three at Guilderland Center and one at 'Carman' (Fort Hunter). In August the "Center boys" assisted Altamont at the fairground's cattle barn fire, and again in October when the Gray cattle barn succumbed.

At the January 1939 meeting, during preparations for the annual ball, a motion was made and approved that "there will be NO Jitterbug, Big Apple or Lindy dance numbers played." By February approval had been given for the 'Emergency Relief/ First Aid Squad' to become an official part of the hose company, with assistance for the ambulance provided by the Helderberg Post, American Legion. With the arrival of the new ambulance in December 1939, the members voted to provide garaging space at the firehouse, and amended the By-laws to create a new officer position: Captain of the Relief Squad.

During the 1938 and early 1939 unsettled differences between the hose company and the village board had resulted in the company moving out of the firehouse, with all their equipment - save the Brockway - to their former quarters in Makely's Garage. After due consideration on both sides, the company returned to the firehouse. Supported by the citizens, the company formally petitioned the village board to "actively" consider the purchase of a new fire truck - a pumper. At least three of the alarms during 1939 resulted in total losses: March 19, the Zweig house; May 17, the Finke house (Le Clair) to which both Guilderland Center and Voorheesville also responded; and May 28, the Platz house. The company also responded to a mutual aid call on October 15 at the Marcy Tavern in East Berne.

These fires, the proximity to Altamont of the Voorheesville General Depot. and the events in Europe all served to emphasize the need for a new pumper. Accordingly, on August 11, 1941 the village board approved and signed a contract to purchase a White WA-18 motor truck chassis for $1,880.00, a body and other equipment supplied by Ribley & Harppinger for $1,614.00 and an American-Marsh - 5OO gpm pump for $1,225,00. The events of December 7, 1941 and the subsequent state of war caused the delivery of this apparatus to be delayed until July 1942.

On January 12, 1942, the first wartime air-raid drill was held, an exercise which was to become a regular occurrence over the next three years. In July the Altamont Hose Company again hosted the annual convention of the Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Firemen's Association, although the usual activities "ere somewhat curtailed due to the war. Efforts begun in 1940 finally resulted in the formation of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Altamont Fire Department in November when twenty-three members joined.

As the sixth decade began, the treasury was again low and, in October 1943, the members opted to present a minstrel show as a fund raiser. This became an annual event for several years - the shows in both 1945 and 1946 were presented in Altamont and five other locations! The monies raised were pledged toward a kitchen remodeling project at the firehouse. In March 1945, the firemen donated one half the cost of new silverware ($83.25) to the auxiliary in appreciation for the ladies' help and support.

The village board authorized purchase of an additional pump, for the Brockway. in June 1944 - it was September 1945 when the pump was finally in service. At the July 1944 convention of the Hudson Valley Firemen's Association, the delegates elected William F. Bradt, of the Altamont Hose Company, as Vice President.

An alarm on April 23, 1945, was a mutual aid call at the Voorheesville Army Depot. At the regular meeting in July, Chief Harry Lewis announced that the alterations were nearly complete on the Brockway, and asked members to assist in assembling its new hose reel, while the President, William Bradt, was authorized to request the village board to change the company's name from "Altamont Hose Company No. 1" to "Altamont Fire Department." In October 1945, a new constitution and By-laws were adopted and the members re-signed the roll.

Late in December 1945, the Altamont Fire Department responded to a mutual aid call at Berne. Following a "breezy" and "invigorating" ride over the mountain, the White truck was the first pumper to put a stream on the burning hotel building, after Berne and Gallupville firemen had cut holes in the ice on a nearby mill pond.

The department pledged $200.00 in February 1946, towards the new veterans memorial in the park, which the local American Legion post planned to erect. In May there were two separate fires in the Lainhart Block on Maple Avenue, which housed the post office, During the 1946 Altamont Fair, in August, the department and auxiliary operated a food booth as a fund raiser. Then, on Friday, October 18, at 7:45 a.m. disaster struck! The LaSalette Seminary burned to the ground in about one hour as firemen from Altamont, Guilderland Center, Voorheesville, Voorheesville Army Depot and Truck 5 and Engine 10 from Albany stood helplessly by, hampered by high winds and a lack of water. The loss was placed in excess of $100,000. Erected in 1886 as a summer resort known as "The Kushaqua" and later as "Helderberg Inn," the 150 ft. by 75 ft. 3 story frame building had been acquired by the LaSalette fathers in 1924 and extensively remodeled. Only a month before the fire. the seminary had been the scene of the 100th Anniversary celebration of the founding of the LaSalette Order. Firemen remained on the scene until Saturday afternoon.

While responding to the seminary fire, the Brockway had suffered a broken front axle. I his event prompted the department to begin to consider purchasing a new truck. which, if bought with department funds, could answer calls outside the Village without legal or insurance difficulties. The company also began to look into the feasibility of incorporating the department and establishing a fire protection district.

In June 1974. the Fire Police unit was created arid. in Jul N. three members were assigned to begin training for such duty. Earlier, in April, after due consideration, plans were abandoned to purchase a surplus C iv il Defense truck as a replacement pumper. Member William F. Bradt was elected the President of the Hudson Valley Firemen's Association in Jul%. On November 20. 1947 the William Armstrong house on Dunnsville Road was destroyed by fire.

March 6. 1948 was a ''red letter" - or in this case, -red truck' - day, for the members voted 22 to I to purchase a new Ford truck chassis from Orange Motors in Albany. Despite postwar shortages, this vehicle had been made available through contacts made during the food booth operation at the 1947 Altamont Fair. The $2,354.17 cost was met by $1,500.00 of company funds and borrowing $900.00. In addition the department spent $260.00 for body materials. $300.00 for a tank and $800.00 for an American-Marsh front mounted SOO gpm pump. I lie members donated many hours of labor to fabricate this truck which was later donated to the village. On May 3, 1948, the Brockway, less ladders, was sold to the newly formed North Bethlehem Fire Department for $450.00. Like its predecessor - the Brockway. which was plagued by weak from axles - the Ford too had a flaw ; while it could get to a fire quickly, getting it to STOP was another matter ... and the brake "booster" added later did little to alleviate the problem! Among the 16 calls during 1948, were five barns arid the Cooper house on the hill all total losses, and a mutual aid to Voorheesville when the Albany Casting Company burned. 

Frank S. Lape, the last living member of those who joined the company in 1893, was honored on his 80th birthday, in February 1949, with the presentation of an arm chair. The responses to the 24 alarms sounded during the year were assisted by the two new 2 h.p. sirens, costing $630.00, mounted on the firehouse roof. Among those calls were: the Krey house - a total loss; the Nelson Gage stock barn; two at the Ten Eyck farm - the second call on July 20 totally destroyed a barn and two silos valued at $60,000; and on November 29, 1949, Omar Warner died of bums received when his house (Mihill) was damaged by fire, In June 1949, the active roster was increased from 30 to 45 men.

As the new year, 1950, began, word arrived that the 30 new chairs, recently ordered, could not be shipped due to the nationwide coal strike by the United Mine Workers union. In May, the members agreed to install a new roof on the firehouse with the village paying for the materials. On Saturday, May 6, another fatal fire occurred: St. Lucy's rectory on Lark Street (Adriance) was severely damaged by flames and Rev. Joseph Boldt died in the fire. At the June meeting a motion to incorporate the company was approved to prevent any lawsuits arising from the food booth operation at the fair and the policing of the fairgrounds. On June 17, Altamont responded to a mutual aid call at the Voorheesville Army Depot, staying on the scene from 11:45 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Apparently some equipment was lost at this fire, for in July it was announced that the Depot would replace 300 feet of hose, a 4 1/2 inch coupler and a 'mid-ship' pump. Another mutual aid call, on September 25, 1950, brought the company to Guilderland when the historic Case home (M & M Motel) was totally destroyed by fire. There were 20 additional calls during 1950.

A new office was created in the department when, in November, Rev. James Morecraft was appointed official chaplain. During December the company attended the dedication ceremonies at both of the veterans organizations' new homes and donated a coffeemaker to the ladies auxiliary in appreciation of the assistance they had given at the fair food booth.

There were 16 alarms during 1951. In May, the company seat was changed from "Altamont Hose Company No. I" to "Altamont Fire Department," and in October both the department and the village board officially changed the name. During the 1951 Hudson-Mohawk Volunteer Firemen's Association convention at Revena, Altamont was selected as the site for the 1952 assembly.

1952 was another "Banner Year." There were only nine alarms during the year. Two special committees were set up: the first, to study the feasibility of an outside fire district, and the second to arrange for a celebration of Verner Sharp's 50th Anniversary as an Altamont fireman. The same month, May 1952, the village board and the department agreed to lease the meeting room in the firehouse to the Guilderland School District for use as a classroom. The rental was at $1,500.00 a Near.

"All For You In '52" was the motto for the 25th Annual Convention of the Hudson-Mohawk Firemen's Association, held in Altamont on July 18-19 under the co-hosting of the Altamont and Guilderland Center Fire Departments. Each company received about $1,300.00 as its share of the profits.

The other major event of 1952 revolved around the "Emergency Relief Squad" and the ambulance. At the April 7 meeting the department stated its position: the majority felt that the ambulance should have only one sponsoring organization and they (firemen) were willing to assume that responsibility; if the American Legion wished to assume the sole sponsorship then the firemen would continue to assist in any ambulance fund drives. In September, the department accepted sole responsibility for the ambulance and approved the motion to set up the "Altamont Rescue Squad" as a part of the fire department, but having its own finance account. A committee was set up to handle the transition and forming of the rescue squad, consisting of John Armstrong, Verner Sharp, William Quay and Edward Pollard. Approval was given for incorporation and the purchase of a new ambulance. The day following these events, bids were opened and the company purchased a 1952 Packard for $3,400.00 with the 1940 Chevrolet as a trade-in. By December 1, 1952 the Altamont Kiwanis Club had collected $4,690.63 in donations for the ambulance and rescue squad.

The seventh decade began in 1953 and the department answered 17 alarms. On May 24, the Musser house, adjacent to the upper reservoir was a total loss and on November 11, the rants' barn at Osborn's Corners succumbed - the second barn to burn on that site. Plans for an addition to the firehouse were presented at the August 1953 meeting. These called for a full second story to be built, containing a meeting room and village offices, A sketch of this proposal still survives.

During 1954 there were 16 alarms, including two mutual aids which resulted in total losses: the Loron house in Guilderland Center and, on October 28, the Vunck Feed Store in Voorheesville. In May the department had begun to sell fire extinguishers as a fund raiser and service project, and in December the first American Legion-Fire Department Community Christmas Party was held, beginning a tradition which lasted through 1981.

Thirty alarms were answered in 1955, including a fatal fire at the Crane (Frederickson) house on Main Street on November 13. Sixteen of these calls were grass fires. As work on the state road improvement project began, tempers rose, trees came down, and the water supply continued to drop as a drought lengthened. In June, the uniforms were changed to a blue shirt, black tie and pants.

The department answered 22 calls during 1956. Approval was given in February to sponsor a Little League Baseball team, a team which became that year's league champions! In March, after nearly a decade of work and organization, the Altamont Fire Protection District became a reality. During the year the members reshingled the firehouse roof and repainted the front of the building. Fireman Edward Pollard was elected the President of the Albany County Volunteer Fire Departments Association for 1956. Several times during the year the apparatus had to be moved to accessible locations while work continued on the rebuilding of Main Street and Maple Avenue, and the water situation became acute.

Then, in November, the department was "put to the test" - the reservoirs were dry! Earlier that summer the Standard Oil Company, through Pollard Brothers, had loaned a 2,500 gallon tank truck to be kept loaded and ready for a fire emergency, and the Albany Felt Company had provided a pump for use at one of the village's wells. During the weekend of November 17-18, 1956, seventeen area fire departments assisted the Altamont Fire Department in a massive pump operation bringing water from Thompson's Lake to the upper reservoir, a distance of 31/2 miles. 156 men volunteered over 1,432 hours of service. The departments included: Albany 10, Clarksville (Onesquethaw), Elsmere, Fuller Road, Guilderland, Guilderland Center, Knox, Latham, Midway, North Bethlehem, Schuyler Heights, Selkirk 2, Slingerlands, Verdoy, Voorheesville, Watervliet, West Albany and Westmere. Following an inspection by (then) Governor Averill Harriman and Colonel Alfred Jacobson, head of the Albany County Civil Defense. pipe was obtained and State Department of Public Works' trucks and crews, along with members of the Altamont Fire Department installed a second "permanent" pipeline. The operation to fill the reservoirs continued through December 9, 1956. The costs of this emergency exceeded $6,000.00, which was paid off through a special tax levy on water bills in 1957. It was during the governor's inspection that the ladies auxiliary's beef stew gained wide attention and approval! That same month two portable generators were purchased for the department.

During 1957 there were 20 calls, including a mutual aid at Voorheesville when Vunck's Feed Store again burned. In March, bids were accepted for a new pumper, to replace the Ford which was later sold for $1,500.00. The department pledged $2,500.00 of its own funds toward the purchase at the May meeting and amended the By-laws to permit the newly elected officers to be installed at the annual banquet. The new International 190 chassis with Sanford body and equipment was ordered in June at a cost of $14,315.00 and delivered the following February. During that same June of 1957 the siren activator at the Convalescent Home (Secor) on Main Street was discontinued and five receivers were placed in members' homes. Four department members became charter members of the Albany County Fire Police Association in July and in August the initials "A.F.D." were place on the front of the firehouse In preparing for the arrival of the new pumper, the department made arrangements with the Fredendall Funeral Home to provide garage space for the ambulance, due to the now limited space in the truck room.

Fifteen alarms were answered during 1958, including the August total loss at the Townsend house on Leesome Lane. At the June meeting the members approved increasing the active roll to 60, and to limit the number of terms a department officer could serve. During November the members doffed fire hats and donned makeup and happy faces to help the ladies auxiliary with a minstrel show. The members were well rewarded for these efforts for the auxiliary presented walkie-talkies to the department.

There were, fortunately, only three major fires between April 1959 and August 1961: April 10, 1959, the Lounello house (Schroeder) on Leesome Lane; January 20, 1960, Dr. Tymchyn's on Maple Avenue; and November 7, 1960, the Scrafford house on Western Avenue. Then, on Thursday, August 17, 1961, during Fair Week, the Ward G. Ackerman mill complex was a $200,000 total loss. Eleven companies did heroic service in confining the fire and protecting nearby property. Included were: Altamont, Fort Hunter, Guilderland, Guilderland Center, Knox, McKownville, New Salem, Pine Grove, Voorheesville, Westmere and a crash truck from the Walter Motor Truck Company. In December 1961, the recently remodeled home of Dr. Milford Becker on Westfall Road was a total loss.

At the June 1962 meeting, approval was given for the purchase of appropriate Bibles to be given to the families of deceased firemen, and in September the By-laws were amended to allow for apprentice or junior firemen. In October 1962, the former meat market on Maple Avenue (tennis courts) was burned as a drill and it was announced that a new apparatus was to be purchased. Another fire in October was not a drill, when Dr. Gilbert's barns on the Voorheesville Road burned to the ground.

The eighth decade began with a fire. On New Year's Eve and well into New Year's Day, Altamont firemen found themselves fighting bitter cold, high winds and freezing hose lines as they assisted at the mutual aid call at the Westfall house (Le Viness) in Guilderland Center. The new truck arrived in April: a GMC-Sanford equipped pumper, custom built to fit the firehouse and costing $19,995.00, and was immediately put in service on April 27, 1963. That night the alarm was sounded for a fire in the Lainhart Block, and the department had a ready-made supply of spectators - and possible assistants - since the Voorheesville Fire Department was having their annual banquet right next door! Three days later, April 30, these two departments met again when the Platz house on the Voorheesville Road was razed. In June, the village began to consider plans for building or buying a new village hall and fire station.

On April 10, 1964, the alarm rang for a fire at 103 Lark Street, the home of fireman and mayor, John Miller. In June, the Guilderland town board approved plans to develop a fire training grounds - if the several town departments would assist with financing and construction. In July, the Altamont Fire Department's Little League team was again league champion. At the same time agreement was reached with the local Kiwanis Club to co-sponsor fireworks for the Fourth of July at the Altamont Fairgrounds, thus beginning this annual event. This was also the last year (1961-1964) in which the Altamont department assisted at the Victoria Acres Raceway. In the early morning hours of September 23, the former Witter/ Burlingame house was totally destroyed by fire. At the December meeting the chief was authorized to negotiate the purchase of an old Brockway chemical truck, thought to be Altamont's former apparatus.

By the January 1965 meeting the antique truck had been bought and the committee was given approval to spend "whatever funds are necessary to restore it." The former Thatcher-Sewell mansion on the hill was burned as part of a mutual aid drill during January. In June 1965, the department began the necessary paper work for incorporation and by November the papers were signed. It was announced in November that the village had arranged to purchase the Keller garage on lower Main Street for use as a village hall and fire station. After renovation had been done and some exterior work completed, the new firehouse was formally dedicated during an inspiring ceremony on February 26, 1967. Over 100 citizens, fire officials and eight of the ten living past chiefs of the Altamont Fire Department attended. The building was purchased for about S40,000 - far below its appraised replacement cost - through the cooperation and interest of Mr. Anthony Keller. Sadly, Mr. Keller passed away one week prior to the dedication events. Subsequent alterations and additions again brought together village government and public safety headquarters to one central location. Starting in 1965 and continuing through 1966 both the village and the department acquired equipment to convert the 1942 White truck into a 'light & rescue' vehicle.

Another major tragedy was avoided by the department's prompt response, on March 29, 1966. to a blaze at the Howard L. Gage, Inc. paint shop and the adjacent Van's Shell station in the hear of the business district. A fire at the Krey farm on Dunnsville Road on September 16, 1967 totally burned a barn and silo, the second such loss to occur there within three years

The alarm was sounded on October 29, 1968, but not for a fire - the century old house of Fred Cad on Route 146 "as a total loss resulting from a methane gas explosion. Seven months later, May 1969, the remains of the house were burned as part of a mutual aid drill. During 1969 two major firematic projects were begun: a fire training grounds was established at the Northeastern Industrial Park (Voorheesville Army Depot) and a town-wide communications system was installed at the new Guilderland town hall. In March 1969. the Altamont Fire Department, continuing its record of support for civic improvement, donated $400.00 to help set up a Y.M.C.A. day camp near Altamont. To improve their own quarters. a new pool table "as bought in September.

On Jaunary 17, 1971 an alarm "as answered at the Blue Spruce Farms on Gardner Road. where a barn and several valuable horses were destroyed in a fire. During 1972 the purchase of plectron units to improve emergency communications began. At first these "ere supplied only to "those firemen (who were) most active in responding to calls. " As more units were made available, the plectron became a vital part of the "standard issue" to department members. The members decided to sponsor a child through the Pearl Buck Foundation at the March 1972 meeting. On June 25, in the midst of a heavy rain storm, the former Air-O-Dance Halt/Swiss Inn Restaurant, scene of the village's 75th Anniversary Celebration in October 1965. burned to the ground. Ever mindful of "looking good" the members voted, at the November 6, 1972 meeting, to purchase new uniforms consisting of red shirts, dark blue pants with gold stripes, white tie and belt with a gold buckle (brass) having an American eagle emblem. Later that same evening, the members voted to purchase a new uniform consisting of blue shirts, dark blue pants with gold stripes, blue tie and American flag emblem patch! This state of confusion was not resolved until late 1975 "hen the present uniforms were ordered. in preparation for events during the United States Bicentennial Celebration.

1973 began the Altamont Fire Department's ninth decade of service. During 1974-75 plans began to be formulated for a proposed "light & rescue" truck, and the firehouse received a 'face-lift' by closing in the large glass windows in the meeting room and installing a new brick front. On August IS, 1975, during the rebuilding and resurfacing of Lincoln Avenue, the department answered another unusual alarm. The paving spreader machine, on loan to the village, burned up! In October consideration of the purchase of a Hurst Tool began and on October 16 an alarm brought the department to a house fire at Victoria Acres. Four months later, on February 13, 1976, the firemen were back to the same house which, this time, was totally destroyed.

The nation's Bicentennial year brought a piece of history to Altamont, when in August, Mr. Todd Pulliam donated a hand-drawn hose cart, similar to the one originally purchased in 1893. During the year the apparatus room had a new drainage system and floor installed, as well as an additional storage area. On December 5, 1976, a near tragedy occurred when the historic Knower House, belonging to Edward Gee suffered heavy smoke damage from a fire.

The antique Brockway chemical truck was finally completed and first displayed during the Memorial Day parade in May, 1977, In March 1978, a 1967 Chevrolet van was purchased by the village, and the fire department members expended many hours of volunteer labor refitting the van as a "light & rescue" squad truck. The cost of this project was $4,250.60, not including the $5,147.40 Hurst Tool donated to the department by the Rescue Squad. During May 1977, the alarm sounded three times for calls to the Shank's home on Main Street. On November 27 firemen responded to what is probably their most unusual call - 14 members spent over two hours extricating a horse from a well at the DuBrin-Sanford farm on Pangburn Road!

In March 1979, the meeting room was completely redecorated and the carpeting installed. On November 16, the Otterness barns were burned to the ground and several animals destroyed during a mutual aid call which brought Altamont, Fort Hunter and Pine Grove to the scene.

On December 8, 1979, fireman Ken Kunow was drowned in a boating accident on Long Island. The memorial donations which were received were used to erect the planter-sign at the front of the lot adjacent to the firehouse. This project was completed in May 1980.

A fire on February 12, 1980 destroyed the Ersam barn and several animals, and on March 5, the aged Plank & Righter coal dock-warehouse was a total loss. Then in August the vacant Demure Interiors building on Altamont Boulevard succumbed, Early on the morning of October 12 - Columbus Day - the alarm sounded. The Delaware & Hudson Railroad had another derailment, but this one involved a tank car carrying 23,000 gallons of toxic, volatile methychloride This emergency brought Altamont national attention and some very anxious hours. Specialists in handling dangerous materials arrived in Altamont from Washington D.C. and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Throughout the emergency firemen stood by, ready to coal down the tank car and assist in the possible evacuation of the village.

On Thursday, November 20, 1980, an unoccupied house and attached barn on the Voorheesville Road, owned by William Brown, was a total loss. Sixteen months later, on March 5, 1982 in the early morning Mr. Brown's own house on the Route 156 hill was also a total loss.

On May 8, 1983, the Altamont Fire Department will begin its tenth decade of service. Throughout its ninety years, the department and each of the 437 men and women who have served in the ranks, has stood by, ever ready and willing to help, aid and assist their neighbors and fellow citizens in any situation which has arisen.

Fighting fires, pumping flood waters - and water supplies - saying lives and protecting property have been only a part of the contributions made by the Altamont Fire Department. For many years each of the village's churches received a donation at the Christmas season, and likewise a prize was given through the schools for academic achievement. The department has sponsored baseball teams and other youth activities and assisted other organizations doing the same, Halloween and Christmas parties, canvasses for health and charity contributions and during the celebrations connected with the village's 75th anniversary of incorporation the department was one of the most active in contributing time and material to the historic display at the former depot-civic center. The special programs and services honoring their fellow citizens have never been found lacking the support and presence of the Altamont Fire Department.

During these 90 years the history of the department has been closely connected to that of the village. These two bodies have shared, and at times differed over, the same problems, needs and concerns, yet always with the same desired goal: the protection and betterment of our village life. May the next 90 ,years be as productive and rewarding as these just completed.

IN MEMORY

Throughout the 90 year history of the Altamont Fire Department the contributions of time, talent, dedication and energy to the service of the department and the community have never faltered. It would require another volume to record and recognize those who have helped to make this department what it is today. There are, however, two members who, both by sheer length of service and dedication to the fire service in general, deserve special mention.

Verner Sharp. Sr. joined the Altamont Hose Company No. I on July 7, 1902, and remained an active fireman for the next 73 years! Mr. Sharp, or "Vernie" as he was popularly known, served in nearly every elected or appointed post which his fellow citizens could bestow, both in the department and in the village. He is the only person to have been Foreman (Chief) of the Fire Department (1914-15), Mayor of the village (1923-24), and Postmaster (1935-50). From 1934, the first record located to 1957, Mr. Sharp was the company drillmaster, and for several more years he was the department's delegate to the Firemen's Association of the State of New York, often times paying his own expenses when the company treasury was low. When "Vernie" joined the company it was just ending its first decade - fires were fought with a hand-drawn hose cart and alarms sounded by a church bell. During his 73 years of membership, he saw the acquisition of every piece of fire fighting equipment which the company has had to date - save one, the rescue van. Mr. Verner Sharp died July 15, 1975, still an active fireman.

William F. Bradt joined the Altamont Hose Company No. 1 on April 2, 1929. He served in many civil offices of the company and was its president from 1938 to 1945. Under William Bradt's leadership the Emergency Relief Squad was created and made an official part of the hose company, the name of the organization was changed from 'hose company' to 'fire department,' the Ladies Auxiliary, was formed and the White pumper secured. "Bill" was also a dedicated leader in the fire service, ever striving to improve the "working conditions" of fellow firemen. Ile served as both Vice President (1944) and President (1946) of the Hudson Valley Firemen's Association and was President of the Hudson-Mohawk Volunteer Firemen's Association (1944). Mr. Bradt also served on several committees at the town, county and regional levels of the fire service, as well as the Firemen's Association of the State of New York. On July 7. 1947, the name of William F. Bradt was placed on the "Honor Roll" of the Altamont Fire Department, but his service did not end there. In 1952, when Altamont was again the host to the Hudson-Mohawk Volunteer Firemen's Association, Mr. Bradt was asked to, and served as, general chairman, fullfilling the motto, "All For You In '52". The plaque unveiled during the February 26, 1967 ceremonies at the new firehouse "as, in part dedicated to the memory and contributions of Mr. William F. Bradt, who died on September 16, 1965.