Film

The Katonah Fire Department is Born

One hundred and thirty-one years ago, The Katonah Fire Department (KFD) was born of necessity. 
A fire that started in Old Katonah’s “Old Hotel” November 19, 1874, very nearly resulted in the destruction of the entire town. However, courageous efforts by Katonah residents, coupled with copious amounts of water from the nearby Katonah Water Company reservoir, prevented the fire from engulfing all in its path. 
Despite heroic efforts, however, the fire, in addition to consuming the hotel, also destroyed Smith Drug Store, Beacon’s Oyster Saloon, a millinery store, and two houses belonging to Bernard Travis. 
Two days later, an important meeting was held in Hoyt Brother’s Furniture Store, chaired by the Honorable Judge W.H. Robertson. Two committees were appointed—one to hire a night watchman and to collect assessments of $1.50 to $10.000 paid weekly by property owners. The surplus from this fund would be used to purchase ladders and buckets. The second committee was to study the cost of fire engines, extinguishers, and other equipment.

In early December 1874, the Fire Apparatus Committee made their presentation, which included price lists of engines and extinguishers, specifications on some available second-hand engines, and a favorable report on a new engine—the “Little Giant” chemical engine. It was decided to test the chemical engine’s capabilities. On December 12, 1874, a gigantic pile of combustible material, as high as a two-story house and up to 20 feet in diameter, was lit on fire. The “Little Giant” performed admirably, but could not penetrate the middle of the pile. Carbonate of soda and dry acid helped, but could not continue because the chemicals ran out. Eventually, however, the fire was extinguished, and for the most part, the “Little Giant” received favorable reviews. 
Later in December, meetings were held to 1) “investigate the feasibility and cost of bringing water to the village in pipes from Wolf Swamp on the hill behind the town” and 2) adopt a resolution that requested that $600 be raised to purchase the “Little Giant” chemical engine and related equipment, and $1,200 for a water engine. Both proposals were to be presented to the citizens for signatures. At the end, only a water engine, the current Pride of Katonah, was purchased. The resolution was amended before year’s end by Judge Robertson, who drew up a legal form authorizing the expenditure of not more than $1,000 to “purchase a water engine, hose, ladder, hook and chains, buckets, etc.” 
On January 9, 1875, KFD was officially organized, with three companies—Engine, Hook and Ladder, and Hose. Mr. H.C. Smith was elected Chief Engineer, and a committee was formed to write KFD’s constitution.

On January 22, 1875, the new engine arrived. On the suction rack was inscribed “Pride of Katonah.” (This engine is now proudly on display at the fire department’s main entrance.) Several tests were made and they all exceeded the engine’s guarantee. A reporter from the local newspaper, The Recorder, was on hand to observe the test and the men involved. Afterward, the newspaper reported, “ . . . as practice makes perfect, we should expect to see the companies improve until the KATONAH FIRE DEPARTMENT ranks second to none.” 
The timeline that follows highlights key points in what has turned out to be a long and illustrious story of bravery and commitment to the residents of Katonah. Major fires are highlighted both for their anecdotal significance, and for the length of time KFD members were required to be at each scene—a time commitment all the more meaningful as KFD has always been a completely volunteer organization.

1875
January-February: KFD decided on its dress uniform—a blue shirt, blue fatigue cap and a belt—color to be determined by each company within KFD. Pants were to be black or dark blue. 
February: KFD’s horse carriage—“an exceedingly creditable piece of workmanship”—was completed. It carried 500 feet of hose with attachments for bells, signal lamps, lanterns and a nozzle. The Hope Hook and Ladder Company truck—amber with red and blue stripes--also arrived. Ladders for the truck arrived in March. A successful engine test was carried out in April and not a word of fault was heard after this trial.

July 5: KFD’s first Fireman’s Parade and Picnic was held at Rockware Grove, starting a tradition that continues to this day. 
July: KFD’s first engine house was located on North Street in the old village. Rental was $50. 
August: KFD’s first Peach and Ice Cream Festival August 25 was a tremendous success, with dance music provided by the Washington Band from New York City. Proceeds from this event went to pay the rental on the department’s engine house, and to purchase furniture and other items for the fire house. 
1892
Construction of the Cornell Dam, part of a major project to provide drinking water for New York City, forced the relocation of Old Katonah. The village moved to its present location, with many houses and stores moved, fully assembled, via horse-drawn sledges to the new site.

1897
New Katonah was “born” April 5 of this year. A new firehouse was built on Katonah Avenue, opposite Valley Road. Part of the old firehouse was used as part of the new building.

1898
June: KFD was officially incorporated June 13, 1898. 
1902
May 18: a fire started in Mr. Lewis W. Elliot’s stable. By the time it was discovered, the fire had made too much headway to save the building. The work horses in the basement of the stable were saved, but only one of nine carriage horses on the main floor were saved. Fire also spread to Mr. A.W. Kellogg’s building, A.M. Van Tassel’s store and residence, and finally, A.F. Avery’s barns.

1904
April: KFD’s first Ladies Night was held. 
The new firehouse was wired for electric lights. A new alarm bell was purchased and installed in the tower. 
1905
KFD joins the Hudson Valley Volunteer Fireman’s Association. KFD marched in its first HVVF association parade, which took place in Mount Vernon. 
1913
KFD’s Treasurer reported that the department had $17.39 on hand. A clambake on Labor Day increased that balance to $152.38. 
1914
June: KFD decided to join the New York State Firemen’s Association. The uniform question was also settled, with each member responsible for purchasing a uniform at his own expense. 
July: A Truck Committee was formed to research purchasing a chemical engine and a hose motor truck.

1916
A Garford Combination Hose and Chemical Truck was approved and the contract was signed. 
1919
March: a new pump was installed on the Garford chemical engine. 
April 28: KFD’s new constitution and bylaws were adopted. 
May 13: KFD’s first chaplain was appointed. 
1920
January: Katonah Fire District was formed. All fire apparatus and all fire department property were turned over to the new Fire District. 
February 10: The chemical truck was sold for $1,000. 
1922
Discussions were held on building a new fire headquarters. An appropriation was drawn up and presented to voters in the Fire District. They voted the appropriation down and firefighters rebelled—they refused to answer alarms as the KFD, but would respond as individuals. 
1923
Katonah Fire District’s Fire Commissioners voted on a $38,800 bond for construction of a new headquarters building. 
Also in 1923, KFD won a silver trumpet award at the Bedford Hills Firemen’s Carnival, and the KFD Band was formed. 
1924
The Fire Department Band designed its uniform—white caps, white shirts, dark trousers and black bow tie. 
September 13: KFD celebrates its 50th anniversary with a parade, fireworks, clambake and other activities.
1925
January 13: Discussions were held on the need for a more adequate alarm system. March 10: KFD decided to purchase and install a siren that would sound alarms based on a code, depending on the type of alarm. 
July 14: A contract was awarded for the siren. 
Also in 1925—the constitution and bylaws were revised and four grades of membership were approved: apprentice, active, inactive and exempt. 
July 14: A contract for a new firehouse was awarded in what is currently the Preferred Realty Office on Katonah Avenue. The first meeting in the new firehouse was held on April 13, 1926.

1926
July: The new siren arrived and was installed on the old water tower behind the firehouse. It was tested for a week at noon each day and was found to be inadequate. A new siren was ordered and installed, and was accepted by the Commissioners on behalf of Katonah Fire District. Discussions on purchasing a new truck began. After numerous delays, the fire department took responsibility for raising money to purchase the truck. One of the main fundraisers held was the annual Firemen’s Ball. The first Ball was held the following year. 
1927
February 11: The First Annual Firemen’s Ball was held at St. Mary’s hall. This dance would continue to be held each year in February until 1943. Proceeds were used to provide better fire protection to the Fire District, and for those calls for assistance outside of the District. 
April-October: Discussions were held on raising money for the new truck. Several different models were demonstrated. 
November: It was recommended that an American La France, with a 600-gallon pump and 103 horsepower motor, be purchased for $8,250. 
1928

June 15: The original American La France truck order was upgraded to a Model 75 with a 750-gallon pump. Cost: $11,000. 1929
February 14: A new engine company—Co. 1—was organized to man the new La France. 
KFD also purchased an inhalator and three gas and smoke masks. 
May: a Buick car was purchased for rescue operations. Discussions began on the need for a rescue truck. 
December: The KFD band was disbanded and the instruments were given to Katonah High School. 
That same month, three sheepskin coats were purchased, to be worn by engine drivers. 
1930
KFD donated $100 to endow a bed in the New York State Firemen’s Home in Hudson, NY. 
1931
The last note on the La France was paid off. 
October 13: The KFD Athletic Association was formed. 
1933
KFD’s constitution and bylaws were changed to reflect the reorganization of engine companies into Engine and Hose Company No. 1, No. 2, No. 3; Rescue Company No. 1, Fire Police Company No. 1. Three new offices were created—President, Vice-President and Steward. 
1935
May: A new Mack truck was delivered. It replaced the old chemical truck. 
August: KFD voted to hold a Field Day in celebration of Labor Day. The day’s events included firematic contests and races and games for children. Prizes were awarded.

1937
November 11: Gregory Field was dedicated in memory of KFD member Leroy Gregory, who was killed in action in World War I. 
March: A new rescue truck—a Diamond T Chassis with enclosed body--was decided on. KFD voted to purchase it in April and it was delivered in September. 
Throughout the year, KFD marched in 10 parades, with an average of 37 men attending. New uniforms, similar to the regulation blue uniforms worn today, were purchased, as was a new banner.
1938
The date of KFD’s annual meeting was changed from December to April in accordance with New York State Law. The fiscal year was April 1 to March 31. 
1939
May: A new truck—a Seagrave—was delivered, tested and ready for service. 
KFD Ex-Chief John Quinn, who was also the first President of KFD’s Benevolent Association, was elected President of the Westchester County Volunteer Firemen’s Association. 
1940
A Field Day competition with other local fire companies was a success. KFD took home one first-place, four second-place and four third-place awards. 
1941
A Bowling League was started with KFD fielding 20 six-man teams. 
1942
18 KFD members served in the armed forces during World War II. 
1945
Easter corsages were sent to the wives, sweethearts and mothers of men in the armed services. 
August 14: A motion was carried to adjourn the monthly meeting early due to V.J. Day. 1946
March 12: Voters passed a referendum enabling the Fire District to purchase the old Katonah High School site (location of the present fire headquarters) for $100. 1947
A Building Committee was appointed to plan the new firehouse. 
KFD’s first television—a Philco model with a 15-inch by 20-inch screen—was installed for $900 (which included a one-year guarantee). 
1949
September 13: KFD’s parade committee reported the department marched in 13 parades and won eight best appearance trophies, two second best trophies and one for best apparatus. Average parade attendance was 69, with a high of 86 and a low of 50. 
A self-dispensing committee was started. Any member taking any refreshments from the refrigerator was asked to check the posted price list and put that amount in a jar nearby. 
1950
May: The KFD Rescue Company organized a First Aid team. It won the New York State First Aid championship title later that year. 
November 25: A violent storm with heavy rain and strong winds blew wires and trees down and blocked roads. Approximately 20 KFD members worked seven hours straight to clear the roads for emergency use. 
1952
September 9: The Rescue Company First Aid Team won second place in the New York State Tournament. 
1953
April 9: KFD donated $100 to the newly formed Little League. 
July 20: KFD member Gerald Kelleher saved the life of Christine Paris, age 21⁄2 by pulling her from a pond and giving her artificial respiration. 
August 2: Plans for the new fire headquarters were drawn up, along with a bond issue for $198,000. The referendum was passed by voters on August 13. 
1957
September 18: KFD decided to run, by hand, the old “Pride of Katonah” hand pumper from Katonah to Mount Kisco. 
As construction neared completion on the new firehouse, the old fire alarm bell was mounted on its pedestal in front of the new building.

1958
April 3: The first departmental meeting was held in the new firehouse. 
April 27: The new KFD firehouse was formally dedicated. 
1959
October 6: While answering an alarm about wires down near Mount Holly Road, Chief James Lawrence was killed—the only KFD member to die in the line of duty. Firefighters Ernest Genett and John D. Dorsett were honored for their heroic attempts to save Chief Lawrence. 
1960
October 11: The monthly meeting was held in memory of Chief Lawrence and in memory of long-time President C. Fayette Lawrence. 
October 14: A truck replacement committee was formed. 
1962
April: A contract was signed for a new American La France 750 GPM pumper. 
August: The new La France was delivered and put in service. 
August 27: A fire broke out in the Raneri Barn in downtown Katonah behind Charles Department Store. While the barn was lost, adjoining and nearby wood frame buildings were saved. 
August 28: A “wetdown” was held for the new La France. 
September: A plaque was presented to Dr. Andrew P. Virtuoso for his 30 years as Vice-President of KFD
1963
January: A truck committee was appointed to replace the aging Seagrave truck. 
1964
A 1965-model GMC Rescue Truck was delivered. 
1965
May: Bids for a new pumper were opened—a 1965-model American La France was chosen and was delivered in February 1966. 
1968
A third La France was delivered, giving birth to the KFD practice of having similar apparatus so members can quickly learn to operate them and easily find equipment in approximately the same place on each engine. 
1969
A truck committee was again formed to research purchase of a brush fire truck. 1970
January 13: A contract was signed with International Motor Truck for the brush truck. Funded by the fire department, final payment was made in December 1970. A new banner was also purchased. 
1973
J. Franklin Ryan was recognized as KFD’s first 75-year member. 
1974
March: A new utility truck, U-8, went into service. 
KFD celebrated its 100th anniversary with a wide variety of activities:
• To kick off the centennial, a beard growing contest was held. It began at the New Year’s Eve Party with participating members ordered to come to the party clean-shaven.
• April 4: Dinner dance
• May 5: Memorial Service at First Presbyterian Church followed by a Pancake Breakfast at fire headquarters.
• June 2: A Centennial Parade was held, as well as an old timers’ parade on June 5 to open KFD’s annual carnival.
• September: A Block Party open to the entire community was held.
• October 6: An open house at fire headquarters kicked off Fire Prevention Week. It was well attended, with equipment demonstrations and refreshments.
• December 21: KFD co-sponsored a children’s Christmas party with the American Legion Post at fire headquarters.

1975
In his final report to the department at the March monthly meeting, 100th Anniversary Chairman Lloyd Becker thanked the membership for their help and announced that the 100th Anniversary celebration was a great success. The membership thanked Lloyd for his tireless efforts. 
April 3: At the annual meeting, a plaque was presented to C. J. Pronay, Sr. for long and meritorious service to KFD and Benevolent Association. 
July 8: Trophies were purchased for the Katonah Memorial Park Swim Meet in memory of 50-year member Paul A. Noe, Sr. 
November 11: Board of Fire Commissioners sends a letter to KFD stating that all new members must have a completed physical examination form. 
December 9: New flags were ordered, including a special Bicentennial Flag. 
1976
February: Our current recording secretary, George E. Griggs, Jr., was elected to that position to succeed John T. (Jack) O’Leary, who passed away. Jack had been recording secretary since 1952. 
May 11: Decision was made to purchase a new truck—a tanker. A committee was formed to pursue this. The monthly meeting was then adjourned in honor of member J. Franklin Ryan’s 100th birthday. 
August 10: New York State Governor Hugh G. Carey signed a Games of Chance bill—voters passed the measure in November, and a similar proposition passed in the Town of Bedford. 
September 12-13: A barn at the Harvey School caught fire on September 12. KFD was on the scene from 8:15 p.m. to 12:50 a.m. Less than three hours later, KFD returned to the campus on a report of the school’s main building catching fire. KFD battled the second blaze from 3 to 10:05 a.m., and was recalled to the scene from 6:05-8:55 p.m. Damage to the school as a result of these fires was estimated at $200,000. KFD received high praise for an outstanding job of firefighting from the school’s insurance agent. In addition, Commissioner and Ex-Chief Lloyd Becker complimented KFD on the very professional handling of the fire. 
Also on September 13, the New York State Highway Department Building caught fire and KFD fought the blaze from 8:40 to 11 p.m. 
October 12: A gas heater was donated through a member for KFD’s annex building. Along with insulation and venting of the annex, the heater will help to maintain the 1928 American LaFrance, which is stored there during the winter months. 
October 30: Halloween Dance with the Mount Kisco Independent Fire Co., was held at fire headquarters. 
1977
January 11: A new stove--oven and grill with hood--was installed in department headquarters. 
January 29: A house fire at 54 Meadow Lane, from 8:40-11:40 a.m., was handled well under sub-zero temperatures and adverse conditions. 
February 8: Plans moved ahead for renovation of the upstairs portion of headquarters. 
February 20: During a heavy snow storm, KFD responded to a building fire at Bright Start, 223 Katonah Avenue. Firefighters were on the scene from 12:15-3:42 p.m. 
February 25: Two house fires—125 Huntville Road, 2:45-5 p.m.; and 64 Meadow Lane, 9:35-10:45 p.m. 
March 8: KFD agreed to host the Westchester County Volunteer Firemen’s Association annual meeting on September 16, 1977. 
April 7: At the annual meeting, KFD received a plaque from the Katonah Chamber of Commerce in recognition for saving the Bright Start building at 223 Katonah Avenue. 
July 14: The 1928 American LaFrance (Mary Ann) won first place at the Fairchester Hose Haulers muster at Kensico Dam, in the Class A Rotary Gear Pumper category. 
September 13: Approval was given by the Board of Fire Commissioners to renovate the upstairs small and large lounges, the main room and the Commissioners meeting room. KFD approved a share of the expenditure. 
November 4: As KFD’s Annual Dinner was ending, an alarm came in for a structure fire at the Harvey School Administration Building. Initial response was by Bedford Hills Fire department, as they were on standby at our headquarters while we attended the inspection dinner. Firefighters were on the scene from 10:15 p.m. November 4 to 8 a.m. November 5. 
1978
March 14: The new tanker was proposed, with a contract awarded in April and delivery about a year after that.. 
April 6: A fire broke out at a residence on Wakan Drive. Firefighters were on the scene from 1:55 to 6 p.m. 
October 10: A drill with Bedford Village, Bedford Hills and Golden’s Bridge fire departments was held at the John Jay Homestead. 
November 10: At the annual dinner, the Board of Fire Commissioners honored Walter Raith for 25 years as Secretary/Treasurer. In addition, Larry Dwyer was honored for general firematic services to KFD. 
November 15 and November 26: Two fires were fought at the Katonah Restaurant on 
Katonah Avenue. 
1979
January 9: Upstairs renovations completed. 
January 19: A Friendship Night was held at fire headquarters with several neighboring fire departments and the Danbury Drum Corps. 
March 13: KFD applied for a license under the Games of Chance bill which passed several years ago. 
KFD also voted to restore and frame the department’s original Certificate of Incorporation, in order to preserve this important part of our history. 
May 6: A memorial service was held at Katonah Methodist Church, followed by a pancake breakfast at fire headquarters. 
September 6: A major ice storm hit the area and firefighters were on duty during most of the day. 
October 6: The new tanker, a Pierce-built Ford 9000 with a 2500-gallon tank, arrived. A “wetdown” celebration with neighboring fire departments was held November 2
1980
February 19: A cross on the fire horn tower remained lit in honor of the U.S. embassy personnel seized hostage by Iranian fundamentalists. A report was also given on progress in construction of John Jay Junior High School tennis courts in honor of deceased department president Neil Vreeland. In addition, a special plaque in his memory was hung in fire headquarters and another plaque with his badge was given to his wife for his son, Jed. 
May 13: KFD donated $1,500 to the Neil Vreeland Memorial Fund. 
October 14: KFD voted that moneys received for the Dr. A.P. Virtuoso Memorial Fund be used for a new dispatch radio console, and that the dispatch room be named in his memory. Dr. Virtuoso was Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners for 32 years. 
1981
July 14: A Firefighter’s funeral, using a fire truck as a hearse, was held for Ex-Chief John (Jack) Daley. 
September 8: The new dispatch console was installed. It was soon put to use, as a fire broke out at a residence on Route 137. Firefighters spent seven hours and 45 minutes bringing it under control and overhauling the scene. 
1982
May 11: A motion was passed that Mike Dugan’s toy fire truck, which had been used for years in department parades, be given to his step-grandson, on the request of his mother. Mike, a 48-year member, started and led “Dugan’s Company”--the clown contingent which has been a fixture at KFD’s annual parade for many years. June 8: A bed and some benches were donated to the Firemen’s Home in Hudson, NY.
September 3: The Neil Vreeland Memorial Tennis Courts were dedicated at John Jay 
Junior High School. 
September 14: A $2,000 donation in memory of member Sid Hickock was made to the 
Firemen’s Home. 
1983
May 15: KFD fought two structure fires—at the Taconic Correctional Facility, from 12:50-2:26 p.m. and at 52 Pine Hill Drive, from 4:14-8:10 p.m. Actions at both fires received many favorable comments from witnesses and bystanders. 
February 12: During the “Blizzard of ‘83”, the firehouse was opened to house storm victims. Several firefighters who had snowmobiles used them to rescue people who were unable to reach shelter. 
1984
April 5: During the annual meeting, an alarm came in at 8:48 p.m. for a fire at 182 Cedar Road. The meeting was adjourned until 12:20 a.m., and then reconvened in the engine room to finish business, as members were cleaning up following the fire. The meeting ended at 1 a.m. 
July 10: New mini-attack (MA-15) engine was put into service. A “wetdown” for MA-15 and KFD’s first Chief’s Car were held November 17. 
October 13: KFD sponsored a Food Tent for Katonah Historical Day, and put the 1874 hand pumper on display. 
1985
April 4: At the annual meeting, the constitution and bylaws were amended to allow for creation of Tanker Company No. 1. 
1986
May 13: At the monthly meeting, it was announced that four blue spruce trees, in memory of member Phil Dahl, were planted at the Firemen’s Home, along with a memorial plaque. It was also announced that the 1928 American LaFrance pumper would be restored by the Ward 79 Ltd. company in Elmira, NY. Money was allocated for the restoration. 
August 12: A proposal was made to combine Rescue Company No. 1 and Fire Police Company No. 1. The proposal was defeated at a special meeting September 9. 
October 14: A plaque in memory of Ex-Chief Harry Smith was presented to the department by the Scarsdale School System, where he had worked for many years in 
a variety of positions. 
November 8: Engine 115, KFD’s first Pierce pumper, was put in service. Two other Pierce pumpers would eventually be purchased, continuing KFD’s tradition of having similar apparatus for consistency and compatibility.
1987
April 9: At the annual meeting, it was announced that restoration of the 1928 American LaFrance was completed. A wetdown for the restored LaFrance, as well as for the new Engine 115, was scheduled for May 2. 
May 12: A memorial service was held at the Presbyterian Church, followed by a pancake breakfast at KFD headquarters. 
June 9: KFD responded to a mutual aid call at the Tara Close Apartments in Mount Kisco. The department was on the scene from 2:52-7:20 p.m. 
1988
January 12: Following acceptance of the proposal, the constitution and bylaws were amended to combine Rescue and Fire Police into Rescue and Fire Police Company No. 1. 
July 12: It was reported that KFD won Best Appearing Regulation Uniform at the Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association annual parade in Lake George. 
August 9: KFD softball team won its division championship. 
August 14: An ammonia leak was reported at the Harvey School skating rink. Several nearby homes had to be evacuated. The department was on duty at the call for 12 hours, from 2:43 a.m. to 2:43 p.m. 
1989
February 14: KFD responded to Weldon Tire in Bedford Hills on a mutual aid call. 
May 9: A new Pierce pumper (Engine 117) arrived. It went into service June 13. Wet down was November 11. 
June 13: It was reported that the James F. Lawrence Circle at Bedford Road and The Parkway in Katonah, in memory of Chief James Lawrence, was rededicated during Memorial Day ceremonies. 
October 10: KFD responded to a gasoline pump fire at the Sunoco Garage on Route 
117. The fire was brought under control in two hours and was considered a terrific save. 
November 14: The 1874 hand pumper was sent to Pennsylvania for refurbishing. 
December 6: KFD responded to a structure fire on Mount Holly Road. KFD was on the scene for five hours, from 12:29-5:30 a.m. 
1990
May 25: KFD assisted Bedford Hills Fire Department in a mutual aid call at Farmers Pride on Railroad Avenue. 
October 26: KFD assisted Mount Kisco at the Mount Kisco Furniture store fire on South Moger Avenue. 
December 11: To help replace a bus at the Firemen’s Home, KFD voted to send $1 for each member on the active roll. $231 was sent. 
1991
April 4: Refurbishing of the 1874 hand pumper was completed. 
April 15: KFD responded to a house/barn fire at 74 Mount Holly Road. Several horses perished in the blaze, which was brought under control in three hours.

1992
February 11: The membership voted to clean, sew and mount the department’s 1900-era parade banner in a special sun-proof case. 
March 10: The American Legion hall on Route 22 caught fire. It was a tough one to fight, due to false ceilings and other obstacles. Still, after 51/2 hours, the department’s efforts resulted in much of the building being saved. 
October 13: KFD held its first Chili Night. It was a great success. 

1993
January 12: A new Pierce Lance pumper with enclosed crew cab (Engine 116) was delivered and put into service January 14. This was KFD’s first enclosed crew cab pumper. 

1994
February 8: KFD’s first female firefighters—Susan Bergson and Teresa Arena—were elected as members. 

1995
May 9: A 125th Anniversary Committee was set up. 
May 14: Ex-chief’s and Firemen of the Year plaques completed and mounted in the 
stairwell at fire headquarters.

1996
January 1: Westchester County Control (60-Control) takes over initial alarm dispatch of KFD from Bedford PD. KFD retains independent dispatch capability following 60-control’s initial alarm. 
Summer: Individual sets of turnout gear were issued to active members who responded to approximately 25 percent of calls in a year. 
July 9: Approval was given to restore and mount a circa 1900 marching uniform blouse and cap 
June-July: KFD takes three “best overall” trophies in a row—at the Mount Kisco, Bedford Village, and South Salem parades. 
August 13: Cellular phones were added to MA-15 and Rescue 17. 
September 12: KFD wins Best Overall at the Westchester County Volunteer Firemen’s Association Convention and Parade in Ardsley. 

1997
January 14: Plans for expansion of the firehouse made available for member and public review. 
March: KFD promotes the WHALE (We Have a Little Emergency) child seat identification system for northern Westchester County. Packets containing identification stickers and tags are provided for the general public, and additional packets are made available at fire headquarters. 
April: A major blizzard hits the area. Over a 24-hour period, KFD responds to over 50 alarms. April 4: KFD participates in the Katonah Centennial Parade, commemorating the birth of New Katonah. KFD members, dressed in old-fashioned uniforms and hats, pulled the 1874 hand pumper through the streets of Katonah and also fought a simulated fire on Bedford Road. KFD also participated in subsequent Centennial activities throughout the year. 
April 23: The Gazebo on Katonah Avenue near the railroad crossing burns down in a spectacular and incredibly fast-moving blaze. 
June 11: One of the main buildings on the campus of the former Bailey Hall private school on New Street, catches fire. Firefighters were on the scene for over 12 hours, from just after midnight until 1 p.m. 
July-August: KFD again takes three “best overall” trophies in a row in Mount Kisco, Bedford Village, and South Salem. 
August 14: Voters in the fire district approve a $1.2 million referendum for the firehouse expansion. Construction continues through the fall and winter months. KFD’s annual Chili Night and Fire Prevention Week activities were canceled for the fall due to construction. 
October 28: Despite the disorganization caused by construction, KFD still holds its annual inspection dinner at the Canyon River Club.

 
1998
January-present: The firehouse expansion is completed, with an extended engine room bay, additional training and storage space, an expanded kitchen and dispatch room, and new lighting and climate control. An elevator, men’s and ladies rooms, and handicapped-accessible bathrooms bring the building up to code according to the Americans with Disabilities Act. 
April 9: At KFD’s annual meeting, Ralph Lent was presented with his 75-year badge in recognition of three-quarters of a century of dedicated service to the department. Ralph also received a plaque and proclamations from Westchester County and the Town of Bedford. 
March-May: In order to comply with new OSHA regulations, white stripes are added to the sides of all apparatus. In addition, a flashing yellow light bar is installed in the back of Engine 116’s raised cab to increase visibility of the truck to traffic approaching from behind. 
May: The new rescue truck goes out to bid, and is then ordered. Delivery in approximately nine months.

1999
Katonah Fire Department celebrates its 125th Anniversary with the following 
activities: 
• Sunday, April 18: A Memorial Service and Breakfast for KFD members and their families. 
• Sunday, June 6: A full scale Dress Parade was held featuring departments from all over Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties, as well as from Connecticut. 
• Wednesday, June 9: An “Old Timers” parade was held to kick off the annual Carnival. Departments from throughout the area proudly showed off various antique apparatus. KFD’s own 1965 Rescue 17 was featured in this parade, along with our 1928 LaFrance and our 1874 hand pumper. 
• Saturday, September 18: A block party open to the entire hamlet was held and was well-attended by members of the community. 

2000
July : A structure fire caused by grease from a deep fryer breaks out at 210 Cherry Street. KFD firefighters were at the scene from approximately 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. and were assisted by units from Bedford Village, Bedford Hills, Golden’s Bridge and Yorktown Heights. The effort resulted in a good save, with fire, smoke and water damage confined to the home’s interior. 
August 28: A suspicious fire breaks out at one of the two remaining large houses on the old Bailey Hall school campus at approximately 9 p.m. Firefighters used deluge guns from different angles to hit the fire, and a backhoe was used to demolish the structure. KFD responded twice more on August 29 for rekindles. 
November: For the first time in its history, new trucks are purchased for KFD’s two assistant chiefs. The Chevy S-10 pickup trucks were delivered in November. 

2001
February 13: President Harry Rosenblum authorizes the reconvening of the KFD Constitution and By-laws Committee to review the constitution. 
Summer: Two Chevy S-10 pickup trucks are purchased for use by the First and Second Assistant Chiefs. 
September 11: Engine 116 responds, along with apparatus from other Westchester 
County fire departments, to assist FDNY after terrorists crash two jetliners into the World Trade Towers. Following an initial mobilization in Valhalla at the Westchester County Fire Training Center, Engine 116 goes into New York City and covers FDNY territory in the Bronx, releasing additional FDNY personnel to assist with rescue and recovery operations after the twin towers collapse. 
September 12-21: Over the next week and a half, Katonah Fire Department mobilizes to assist New York City in a variety of ways. Crews of Katonah firefighters head to ground zero to help with rescue and recovery operations. Additional personnel remain on standby at fire headquarters to cover Katonah Fire District territory and to collect and organize the tons of donations people drop off for rescue workers in New York City. Several convoys of donated food, clothing and tools are sent into the city. 

2002
July-August: A new 2002 Chevy Suburban is purchased to replaced the 1992 Chevy Suburban chief’s car. The 1992 Chevy Suburban is put back into service as “Utility 8.” 
Summer: KFD finally converts to large-diameter 5-inch supply hose to replace the older 3-inch canvas hose. Engines 115 and 117 are outfitted with 1,800 and 1,900 feet of the new yellow large-diameter hose, respectively. Engine 116 retains 3-inch hose for now, with plans to replace it when additional 5-inch hose is ordered. 
August: KFD decides to purchase new Scott Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) to replace the Survivair SCBAs currently in use. Each active member who is certified as an interior firefighter is fitted for his or her own SCBA mask. 
September: Katonah Fire District voters overwhelmingly pass a public ballot initiative allowing the fire department to implement a Length of Service Program (LOSAP) for active department members. The program guarantees a monthly pension at age 65 provided members accumulate 15 years of active service with the fire department. Specific guidelines are drawn up outlining the criteria members must meet in order to qualify each year for the program. 
October: The new breathing apparatus is placed on the three pumpers, the tanker and the rescue truck. 

2003
January: LOSAP program officially begins. Records of attendance at fire calls, drills, meetings, and other qualifying functions will be used to calculate service award points each year.
February: Constitution and By-Laws Committee reestablished to revise certain aspects of the Constitution and By-Laws. One area in particular—revising the document to allow for a Junior Corps to be established at KFD. 
August: Following discussion and a vote, the minimum age for joining Katonah Fire Department was lowered from 18 to 16. There will be further research into possibly creating a Junior Corps. That issue will be dealt with separately. 

2004
New Junior Corps members begin joining KFD. These individuals are allowed to go through firefighter training, but are considered exterior firefighters until they turn age 18. They are also subject to various regulations specific to their ages, such as not being at the firehouse beyond 10 p.m. on a weeknight, and not being allowed to respond to fire calls while in school. The Junior Corps members meet periodically with a standing committee of senior members.

2005
Utility 8 was purchased new in 2005, it is a Ford F-350 Pickup Truck with a 4 door cab and a utility body. This rig is used to help transport personnel to both emergency calls and training sessions. It is a four wheel drive unit. This vehicle can be used for hauling extra equipment to and from the scene of a fire call and is frequently used to help close road due to hazardous conditions.
New Chevy Tahoes are purchased for the assistant chiefs, replacing the older S-10 pickup trucks,
The previous U-8, the former 1992 Chief’s Car, was sold to a KFD member as a private vehicle.
New high-band portable radios are purchased, allowing KFD to communicate on dedicated fireground channels when operating at scenes. Low-band portable radios allow officers to keep in touch with 60-Control on 46.26.
“I-page” capability is provided to members with cell phones, allowing alarms to be sent via e-mail to a user’s cell phone. The text messaging reduces confusion as to the type of alarm and its location. Cell phones in Engine 116, R-17, and U-8 are upgraded to Nextel phones with similar IO-page capability. 

2006
A new Tanker 6 replaces the 1979 Tanker, which was sold to a fire department in Montana. The new Tanker 6, a Pierce, carries 3,500 gallons of water and has a built-in 50-gallon foam tank with top-mounted deck gun.
January 14—a major house fire breaks out at 18 Harris Road, keeping KFD and neighboring departments at the scene for most of the day. Following that fire, which occurred during an unseasonably warm day, the temperature dropped and a storm came in. KFD members were out again in force that night and the next day dealing with a host of storm-related calls.