Schodack Valley Fire Company: A Rich History of Community Service

Founding and Early Years

The Schodack Valley Fire Company (SVFC) was formally organized in 1942 to serve the growing needs of the community in the Town of Schodack, located in Rensselaer County, New York. The fire company started with limited resources, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its early members. The first fire truck owned by the district was a homemade vehicle built from a Chevrolet chassis, highlighting the hands-on, community-driven approach that defined the company's early years.

In the 1950s, the fire company moved from its original location at Bob Miller's barn to a newly constructed station 200 yards up the road, built on land donated by Jacob Van Kampen. This new facility featured two apparatus bays and an upstairs meeting room, a significant upgrade that provided better support for the company’s growing responsibilities.

Apparatus and Equipment Evolution

Over the decades, the SVFC continuously upgraded its equipment to better serve the community. One notable apparatus, the 1956 Ford Seagrave pumper (E-42), was the first custom-built fire truck for the district, featuring a 750 GPM three-stage pump and a 600-gallon water tank. This apparatus was vital in advancing the company's firefighting capabilities and underwent multiple rebuilds over its service life before being retired in 1985?.

In 1963, the company added TA-13, a Dodge Decker tanker with a 500 GPM front-mount PTO pump and a 1500-gallon water capacity. This tanker replaced an older model but was known for its challenging handling due to its top-heavy design. It served the district until 1980 when it was replaced by a more modern tanker, 32-7.

The addition of E-99, a 1974 Mack MB 400 pumper, marked another milestone for the company, as this truck came with a 1000 GPM two-stage pump and a 500-gallon tank, further enhancing the firefighting fleet's capabilities. The apparatus number was later changed to 32-1 following a county-wide renumbering effort.

Station Expansion and Community Involvement

The SVFC saw significant growth in the 1970s, particularly with the expansion of its station. In 1975, a five-bay garage was added to the station, more than doubling its size. This expansion was necessary to accommodate the increasing number of apparatus and to provide more space for training and operations. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new addition took place in November 1973, and the facility was officially dedicated in the summer of 1975, an event attended by local dignitaries and the US Coast Guard Band.

Throughout its history, the SVFC has been deeply embedded in community life, hosting numerous events such as the famous Schodack Valley Chicken Bar-B-Ques. These events not only served as fundraisers but also as an opportunity to strengthen the bond between the fire company and the community it serves. During one notable event in October 1975, the company served up to 750 chicken dinners, a testament to the support and enthusiasm of local residents?.

Modern Operations and Future Outlook

Today, the Schodack Valley Fire Company covers a district of approximately 15 square miles, which is mostly residential but includes some commercial zones poised for development. The district is home to around 5,000 residents across 1,800 to 1,850 homes and businesses. The SVFC responds to an average of 250-300 emergency calls per year, including approximately 100-120 EMS calls. The fire company is staffed by approximately 45 dedicated volunteer professionals who provide fire suppression, EMS, and vehicle extrication services?

The fire company also plays a vital role in responding to incidents along several busy highways that pass through the district, including sections of NY Routes 9 & 20 and Interstate 90. In recent years, the SVFC has explored consolidation with neighboring fire departments to further enhance service delivery throughout the Town of Schodack

As the district continues to grow, the SVFC remains committed to upgrading its equipment and facilities to meet future needs. Recent improvements include transitioning to a 4" hose and adopting an 800MHz communication system for better coordination during emergencies.

Call for Volunteers

The Schodack Valley Fire Company always seeks new volunteers to join its ranks. Individuals aged 16 and older who live or work within the Schodack Valley Fire District are encouraged to consider volunteering. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and serve the community.

For more information about the Schodack Valley Fire Company and its rich history of service, you can visit their official website.