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FIREBOATS
Photos by Britton W Crosby

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New York City, NY

F.D.N.Y. - Page 14


Original Feature Posted April 26, 2004 - Re-launched January 28, 2012
Page 14 Added April 2014   Updated October 9, 2015

FDNY Marine Division   Old Fire Boats  
Old Marine 1 "McKean"  New Marine 1 "343"    Old Marine 2 "Harvey"  
Small Boats, Marine 3   Old Marine 6 "Kane"    New Marine 6 "Bravest"
Old Marine 9 "Fire Fighter"    New Marine 9 "Fire Fighter II  
NYPD Police Boats   Historic FDNY Fireboats Pre 1900
Historic FDNY Fireboats 1900-1950   Historic FDNY Fireboats 1950-2000
 

"1951 - 2000"
THE HISTORIC F.D.N.Y. FIREBOATS
From the John Landers-Beth Klein Collection

RARE - HISTORIC - SOME NEVER BEFORE SEEN ONLINE
Many of the photos on this page are from the John Landers & Beth Klein collection.
These are some of the most rare, historic, and in some cases never before seen online
images of the Historic Fireboats of the Fire Department of New York.
I thank John for allowing CapeCodFD.com to share these with our viewers.

John Landers is a NYC Transit worker whose fascination with the FDNY Marine Division dates back
to his childhood invite on board the H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks by her Commanding Officer Lt. Summerbell.
John and his wife Beth Klein wish to share their collection with anyone interested.
If you require professional use of any of these photos please contact John at islandersb@aol.com

MUST LISTEN

You Tube audio of 1938 New York City Fire boats Radio Roll Call
by WNYF with each boats using their horns
Added Oct 12, 2014

 

 

"New York City"
Map of New York City and the rivers, bays, and harbors protected by the FDNY.
Over 560 miles of waterfront are protected by the FDNY.

 

 

PAST FDNY FIREBOATS
 (Info from Fireboats.org)
(Info from FDNY Marine 1)
(Info from FDNY Unofficial Page)
 

SENECA
(NYPD c. 1862-1881)
A side paddlewheel vessel obtained by the New York Police Department
was on very rare occasions reportedly used by the Brooklyn Fire Dept.
She was reportedly destroyed by fire in 1881.

JOHN FULLER
(On Call c. 1866-1875)
Perhaps the "first" firefighting boat in NYC.
A steam salvage tug equipped with Amoskeag fire pumps
Owned by John C. Baxter & Son
Rented as needed "On Call" basis.
Known as a "wrecking & fire steamer"
13 water streams
It served for 9 years 1866-1875
and then for years was rented to substitute for
fireboats Havemeyer and Mills when they were out of service.
Berthed at 307 West Street, Manhattan

PROTECTOR
(On Call c. 1894-?)
A 53 foot tug operated by the Newtown Creek Towing Co.
in Long Island City (now part of Queens) on the East River
was from time to time used for firefighting

------------------------------
 

WILLIAM F. HAVEMEYER
(1875-1901)
106' x 22' x 10'. 6000 gpm.
Built by Wood Dialogue & Company, Philadelphia
Wood hull vessel - coal fired steam powered
Berthed at foot of Pike Street, East River
"Engine 43"


ZOPHAR MILLS
 (1882-1934)
120' x 25' x 12'. 6000 gpm.
First iron hull fireboat
Berthed at Pier 42, North River
Served 52 years.
"Engine 51"


SETH LOW
(1885-1917)
99' x 24' x 9'. 3500 gpm.
Wooden vessel
Harbeck's Stores, then foot of Main Street
Brooklyn Fire Dept
"Engine 23"



THE NEW YORKER
(1890-1931)
125' x 26' x 12'. 13,000 gpm.
Steel hull
Battery Park, North River, Manhattan
"Engine 57"

---------------------
Note
The newest, most innovative fireboats often
started out at "Engine 57"
with the previous boat being reassigned
to another boat site.
---------------------



DAVID A. BOODY
 (1892-1914)
105' x 23' x 7'. 6500 gpm.
Wooden vessel
Brooklyn Fire Dept
"Engine 32"


ROBERT A. VAN WYCK
(1898-1948)
100' x 24' x 12.6'. 6500 gpm
Only briefly named Van Wyck
Served as William L Strong
"Engine 66"

 

WILLIAM L. STRONG
(1898-1948)
100' x 24' x 12.6'. 6500 gpm
- Briefly Also Named the -
Robert A Van Wyck

"Engine 66"


ABRAM S. HEWITT
(1903-1958)
117' x 25' x 10'6". 7000 gpm.
At foot of 13th Street
"Engine 77"


GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN
(1904-1954)
117' x 24' x 9'6". 7000 gpm.
"Engine78"


VELOX
(1907-1922)
68' x 11'6" x 7'.
Tender
 

JAMES DUANE
(1908-1959)
132' x 28' x 10'. 9000 gpm.
"Engine 85"


THOMAS WILLETT
(1908-1959)
132' x 28' x 10'. 9000 gpm.
"Engine 86"


CORNELIUS W. LAWRENCE
(1908-1955)
104'6" x 23'6" x 9'. 7000 gpm.
"Engine 87"


WILLIAM J. GAYNOR
(1914-1961)
118' x 25' x 13.4'. 7000 gpm.
"Engine 223"


JOHN PURROY MITCHEL
(1921-1966)
132' x 27' x 10'. 9000 gpm.
Built at Standard Shipbuilding Co, Shooters Island, NY
Last steam fireboat, first oil burner
"Engine 57" "Marine 3"


CAPT. CONNELL
(1922-1938)
56'6" x 12' x 6'6".
Tender


JOHN J. HARVEY
(1931-1999)
130' x 28' x 9'. 18,000 gpm.
First gasoline-electric powered boat
"Engine 57" "Marine 2"


FIRE FIGHTER
(1938-2011 )
134' x 32' x 9'. 20,000 gpm.
First Diesel - electric fireboat
"Engine 57" "Marine 9"


SMOKE
(1938-1955)
53' x 7' x 3.5'.
Tender


JOHN D. MC KEAN
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"


H. SYLVIA A. H. G. WILKS
(1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
"Marine 7"

HARRY M. ARCHER M. D.
(1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
"Marine 6"


SMOKE II
(1958-2008 )
52' x 14' x 4'. 2000 gpm.
"Tender"


SENATOR ROBERT F. WAGNER
(1959-1993)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
"Marine 5"


GOVERNOR ALFRED E. SMITH
(1961-      )
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
"Marine 6" "Marine 8"
 


BLAZE
(1961-1970)
20'x 8' - 600 gpm


JOHN H. GLENN, JR.
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(now Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 

FLAME
(1963-1974)
18' x 8'  680 gpm


JAMES F. HACKETT
 
(1970-1974)
29'3" x 8' x 2'.5" - 2500 gpm


JOHN P. DEVANEY
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.


ALFRED E. RONALDSON
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4"  7075 gpm.


KEVIN C. KANE
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
"Marine 6"

---------------------------------

Modern Boats

"THREE FORTY THREE"
"Marine 1"

(2009-  )

140' x 36' x 9' draft
50,000 gpm
Marine 1 - Bloomfield Street, Manhattan
Built by Eastern Shipbuilding,
Panama City, Florida
Replaced the McKean
 

"FIREFIGHTER II"
"Marine 9"
(2009-  )

140' x 36' x 9' draft
50,000 gpm
Marine 9 - Front Street, Staten Island
Built by Eastern Shipbuilding,
Panama City, Florida
Replaced the "Firefighter" built in 1938
 

"BRAVEST"
"Marine 6"

(2011-  )

65' x 17' x 39" Safe Boat
7,000 gpm
Marine 6 - Brooklyn Navy Yard
Replaced Kevin Kane
 

MARINE 1 - ALPHA
(2011-  )

27' Safe Boat
With Marine 1 at Bloomfield St
 

 

SEASONAL UNITS (May to Oct)

MARINE 3
(       )

 Marine 3 - Kingsboro Community College,
Brooklyn

MARINE 4
(       )

 Marine 4 - Fort Totten,
Queens

MARINE 8
(2012-  )

33' Safe Boat
7,000 gpm
Marine 8 - Great Kills Harbor,
Staten Island
 

----------------------------------------
FDNY MARINE DIVISION HISTORY
Fire Boats and Company Locations over time
(Note: Consolidation of New York City and combined
Fire Department occurred in 1898)

When first organized FDNY Fireboats were designated as Engine Companies.
As boats were relocated they maintained their Engine Co. assignment.
The 19th Battalion was established in 1905 including all the fireboats.
The fleet reached 10 boats from 1908 into the 1950's.
Changes have occurred over time as economics and changes in the
waterfront resulted in a reduction in the number of boats.
The "Marine Division" and designations of "Marine Units" was created 1959.
 

Engine 43
Organized 1875
East River - 1875
Pier 40, Pike Street, Manhattan, East River - 1877
Pier 1, Manhattan, North River - 1879
Foot of Clinton St, Manhattan, East River - 1883
Pier 55, Grand St, Manhattan, East River - 1893
Foot of East 96th St, Manhattan, Harlem River - 1898
Marine E43 Disbanded 1903

"William F. Havemeyer" 1875-1901
 

Engine 51
Organized 1883
Pier 42, Manhattan, East River - 1883
Foot West 13th St, Manhattan, North River- 1884
Foot of Bloomfield St, Manhattan, North River - 1892
Foot West 13th St, Manhattan, North River- 1900
Foot of East 99th St., Manhattan, Harlem River - 1903
St George, Staten Island - 1908
Disbanded 1916 - 1922
Foot of Hyatt St, Staten Island - 1922
Disbanded 1934 - 1938
Foot of Hyatt St, Staten island - 1938
Pier 6, Foot of Hannah St, Staten Island - 1947
Disbanded 1948 - 1949
Pier 6, Hannah St, Staten Island - 1949 - 1959
Reorganized as Marine 9 - 1959

 "Zophar Mills" 1883-1934
"William L Strong" 1938-1948
Replaced by "George B McCllellan" 1949-1953
"Cornelius W. Lawrence" 1953-1954
Replaced by "Fire Fighter" 1954-1959
 

 

Engine 23 - (Brooklyn FD)
 Organized 1886
Foot of Furman St, Brooklyn, East River - 1886
Relocated foot of Main St, Brooklyn, East River - 1899
Became Engine 123 - 1899
Relocated foot of 42nd St, New York Bay - 1904
Relocated Foot of Main St, Brooklyn, East River - 1904
Became Engine 223 - 1913
Relocated Foot of 38th St, New York Bay - 1915
Relocated Foot of 37th St, New York Bay - 1932
Reorganized as Marine 8 - 1959

"Seth Low" - 1886-1916
Replaced by "William J Gaynor" 1916-
 
 

Engine 32 - (Brooklyn FD)
Organized 1893
Foot of North 8th St, Brooklyn, East River - 1893
Became Engine 132 - 1899
Became Engine 232 - 1913
Disbanded - 1914
Reorganized Foot of North 8th St, Brooklyn, East River - 1915
Relocated Foot of Noble St, Brooklyn, East River - 1922
Reorganized as Marine 6 - 1959

"David A. Boody" - 1893-1914
 

Engine 57
Organized 1891
Castle Garden, Manhattan - 1891
Battery Park, Manhattan - 1895
Pier 1, Manhattan, North River - 1941
Disbanded 1959
Reorganized as Marine 1 - 1959

 "New Yorker" - 1891-1922
Replaced by "John Purroy Mitchel"  1922-1931
Replaced by "John J. Harvey" - 1931-1938
Replaced by the "Fire Fighter"  1938-1955
Replaced by "John D. McKean"  1955-1959

 

Engine 66
Organized 1898
Foot of Grand Street, Manhattan, East River - 1898
Foot of Grand St, Corlears Hook, Manhattan, East River - 1932
Disbanded 1955

"Robert A Van Wyck" 1898-
Renamed "William L. Strong"  1898-1938
Replaced by  "George B McClellan"  1938-1953
 

Engine 77
Organized 1903
Foot of Gansevoort St, Manhattan, North River - 1903
Relocated to Foot of Main St, Brooklyn, East River - 1904
Relocated to Foot of Beekman St, Manhattan, East River - 1911
Relocated Seaside Landing, Far Rockaway, Queens - 1922
Relocated foot of Hyatt St, Staten Island - 1922
Relocated Foot of Beekman St, Manhattan, East River - 1922
Relocated Foot of Fulton St, Manhattan, East River - 1931
Reorganized to Marine 7 - 1959


""Abram S. Hewitt" 1903-
Replaced by "The New Yorker" 1922-1931
 

Engine 78
Organized 1904
Foot of Gansevoort St, Manhattan, North River - 1904
Relocated Foot of East 99th St, Manhattan, Harlem River - 1908
Relocated Foot of 90th St, Manhattan, Harlem River - 1930
Reorganized as Marine 5 - 1959

"George B McClellan"  1904-1938
Replaced by "Thomas Willett" 1938-1959
 

 

Engine 85
Organized 1908
Pier 75, West 35th St, Manhattan, North River - 1908
Reorganized as Marine 3 - 1959

"James Duane" 1908-1959

 

Engine 86
Organized 1908
Foot of Gansevoort St, Manhattan, North River - 1908
Relocated Pier 53, Ft of Bloomfield St, Manhattan, North Rover - 1910
Reorganized as Marine 2 - 1959

 "Thomas Willett"  1908-1938
Replaced by "John J Harvey" 1938-

 

Engine 87
Organized 1908
Foot of East 132nd St, Manhattan, Harlem River - 1908
Relocated Ft of East 135th St, Manhattan, Harlem River - 1922
Relocated foot of Grand St, Manhattan, East River - 1952
Disbanded 1954

 "Cornelius W. Lawrence" 1908-1953

 

Engine 223
 Organized 1886 as Brooklyn Engine 23
Foot of Furman St, Brooklyn, East River - 1886
Relocated foot of Main St, Brooklyn, East River - 1899
Became Engine 123 - 1899
Relocated foot of 42nd St, New York Bay - 1904
Relocated Foot of Main St, Brooklyn, East River - 1904
Became Engine 223 - 1913
Relocated Foot of 38th St, New York Bay - 1915
Relocated Foot of 37th St, New York Bay - 1932
Reorganized as Marine 8 - 1959

"Seth Low" - 1886-1916
Replaced by "William J Gaynor" 1916-
 

Engine 232
Organized 1893 as Brooklyn Engine 32
Foot of North 8th St, Brooklyn, East River - 1893
Became Engine 132 - 1899
Became Engine 232 - 1913
Disbanded - 1914
Reorganized Foot of North 8th St, Brooklyn, East River - 1915
Relocated Foot of Noble St, Brooklyn, East River - 1922
Reorganized as Marine 6 - 1959

"David A. Boody" - 1893-
"John Purroy Mitchel" - 1931-
 


 

----------------

The "Marine Division" as it is known today was reorganized in 1959.
No longer would fireboats be referred to as Engine Companies.
 

Marine 1
Organized 1959
Pier 1, Manhattan, North River 1959-
Pier A, Manhattan, Battery Park, Manhattan, North River  1960-1992
Relocated to Foot of Bloomfield St, Manhattan, North River 1992

"John D. McKean" 1959-2010
"Three Forty Three"  2010-
 

Marine 2
Organized 1959
Foot of Bloomfield St, Manhattan, North River 1959-1991
Disbanded 1991

"John J Harvey" 1959-1995
 

Marine 3
Organized 1959
Foot of West 35th St, Manhattan, North River 1959-
Foot of Bloomfield St, Manhattan, North River 1961-
Disbanded 1966
Reorganized 1996
158-57 Cross Bay Blvd, Queens (Seasonal May-Oct) 1996-2004
Relocated Gateway Marina, Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn  (Seasonal) 2004-
 

Marine 4
Organized 1962
Foot of 154th Pl, East River 1962-
Relocated Army Pier, Fort Totten, Queens 1963-
Disbanded 1971
Reorganized 1996
Fort Schuyler @ NYSMMA, Throgs Neck (Seasonal)  1996-1998
Relocated to Fort Totten, Queens 1998-

"John H Glenn Jr" 1962-1971
 

Marine 5
Organized 1959
Foot of East 90th St, Manhattan, East River 1959-1976
Disbanded 1976
 

Marine 6
Organized 1959
Foot of Grand St, Manhattan, East River 1959-1992
Relocated to Bldg 292, Brooklyn Navy Yard, East River  1992-
(Marine Division HQ)

"Governor Alfred E. Smith" 1961-1992
"Kevin C Kane" 1992-2011
"Bravest" 2011-
 

Marine 7
Organized 1959
Foot of Fulton St, Brooklyn, East River  1959-1970
Disbanded 1970

"H. Sylvia A.H.G. Wilks" 1959-1970

 

Marine 8
Organized 1959
Foot of 38th St, Brooklyn, New York Bay 1959-1962
Foot of 52nd St, Brooklyn  1962-1970
Disbanded 1970
Reorganized Great Kills Harbor, Staten Island (Seasonal) 2005-

 

Marine 9
Organized 1959
Pier 6, Staten Island  1959-
Relocated Slip 8, St George Ferry Terminal, SI  1967-
Relocated foot of 52nd St, Brooklyn, New York Bay 1976-
Relocated Slip 8, St George Ferry Terminal, SI  1977-
Relocated 355 Front St, Staten Island  1997-

"Fire Fighter" 1959-2010
"Fire Fighter II" 2010-






 

  

 

 

HISTORIC FDNY FIREBOATS
"1950-2000"
The following special photos were submitted as listed below.
(Added August 2013 - Updated October 2014)

 

______________________________

GO BACK TO PAGE 12
For fireboats Pre-1900
______________________________

GO BACK TO PAGE 13
For fireboats 1900-1950
______________________________

 

 

Prev   Top   Next

Fireboat "John D. McKean" 1954

 

 


Artist concept of the FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean."
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

NOTE: The John D. McKean was named for the Marine Engineer
of the McClellan who was killed in 1953.

 

Original blue prints of the fireboat to be built to replace the Wm L Strong.
This boat would become the "John D McKean"
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 


 


FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" launching c.1954
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" welcomed to New York
on maiden arrival by the Statue of Liberty and the "Fire Fighter"
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" welcomed to New York
by the 'Thomas Willett" and the "Fire Fighter"
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" off the battery in 1955
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"

 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" as Engine 57 c.1957
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"


 


FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" at Pier A Manhattan 1958
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 


Firefighter teamwork aboard the FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" 
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

 


Stern view of the FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean."
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" underway
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"


 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" at Pier A Manhattan.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

 

 "John J Harvey" and the "John D. McKean" alongside the liner "Hanseatic."
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

 


FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" in action.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

 


Red, white, and blue colorful display by FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean."
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" in 1959 with Ellis Island in background
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"

 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" at Pier A c.1961
Submitted by John Landers and Beth Klein

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"

 

FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" ready at Pier A.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

Fireboat "John D. McKean" approaches quarters.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

Fireboat "John D. McKean" during Fleet Week in 1979.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 


FDNY Fireboat "John D. McKean" Marine 1 last days in service.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John D. McKean"
(1954-2011 )
129' x 30' x 9'. 19,000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyard in Camden, NJ
Equipped with 6 monitors and a water tower mast.
Replaced the McClellan.
"Engine 57"  "Marine 1"
 

 

 

 

Prev   Top   Next

Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" 1958

 


Launching of the Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" 1958  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"

Note: The name H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks stands for the full name
Hetty Sylvia Ann Howland Green Wilks
who was a philanthropist whose donations set up several charities
that benefited firemen and their families.
 

 


Launching of the Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" 1958  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 


Pilothouse of the Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks."
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 


 Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" pilothouse deckguns.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 


Deckgun in operation Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 


 Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" Marine Co.7.  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 

 


Arrival of the Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks."
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 


Arrival of the Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" closeup.  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 


The Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" approaching Manhattan.  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 


The Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" approaching Manhattan.  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

 


The Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" approaching Manhattan closeup.  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"

 


The Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" Marine 7  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"

 


The Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" at Pier 1 
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"

 


Only known photo of the Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" as Marine Co. 9.  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7" "Marine 9"

Note: When the "McKean" Marine 1 went down for about 7 months in the mid 1970s
the "Firefighter" Marine 9 was temporarily assigned to Marine 1 at Pier A.
The "Wilks" Marine 7 was relocated to Marine 9 until the "McKean"
came back in service and the "Firefighter" returned to Marine 9.
This may be one of the few known photos showing the "Wilks"
with the Marine 9 on the stack. She was sold soon after and left the
fire service ultimately becoming a tug boat.

 


Only known photo of the Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" as Marine Co. 9 closeup.  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7" "Marine 9"

 

Underway photo of the Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" as Marine Co. 9.  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7" "Marine 9"
 

 


Decommissioned Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection


"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"

 

Boat was originally Marine7.
She was sold to the NYC Dept of Marine & Aviation as a shop tug.

 

Decommissioned Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" during her
debut party as the shop tug for the New York City Division of Marine & Aviation  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection


"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"

 

Boat was originally Marine7.
She was sold to the NYC Dept of Marine & Aviation as a shop tug.

 

Former Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  as shop tug for
the New York City Division of Marine & Aviation  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection


"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"

 

Boat was originally Marine7.
She was sold to the NYC Dept of Marine & Aviation as a shop tug.

 

Former Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  as shop tug for
the New York City Division of Marine & Aviation  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection


"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

Boat was originally Marine7.
She was sold to the NYC Dept of Marine & Aviation as a shop tug.

 


Former Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  as shop tug for
the New York City Division of Marine & Aviation  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

Boat was originally Marine7.
She was sold to the NYC Dept of Marine & Aviation as a shop tug.

 


Former Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"
 (1958-1972)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The first of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 7"
 

Boat was originally Marine7. She was sold to the NYC Dept of Marine & Aviation as a shop tug.


Former FDNY Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  
became a Cresent Towing Company tug "Ervin S. Copper"
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection


Former FDNY Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  
became a Cresent Towing Company tug "Ervin S. Copper"
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection


Former FDNY Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  
became a Cresent Towing Company tug "Ervin S. Copper"
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection


Former FDNY Fireboat "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks"  
became a Cresent Towing Company tug "Ervin S. Copper"
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

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Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D." 1958

 

Fireboats "H. Sylvia A. H. G. Wilks" and "Harry M. Archer M.D."  
Launching at Mathis Shipyard
Photo courtesy of Al Trojanowicz

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 

Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."  at the Shipyard
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 

 


Launching of the Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 

 


Launching of the Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 

 


Launching of the Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."  
The wife of FDNY Fire Commissioner Edward Cavanaugh breaks the champagne
bottle christening the new vessel
 John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 


Launching of the Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 

 


Launching of the Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 

Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."  on the way to NYC for first time
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 

Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."  at quarters original black hull.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"
 

Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."  at quarters original black hull close-up.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"

 

 

Fireboat "Harry M. Archer M.D."  operating at a ship fire as Marine 6
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"

 


Fireboat "Harry M. Archer  M.D."  at Quarters of Engine 66 in 1963.
  John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"

 


Close-up of Fireboat "Harry M. Archer  M.D."  at Quarters of Engine 66 in 1963.
  John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"

 

Fireboat "Harry M. Archer  M.D."  at Quarters of Marine 6 in 1973.
  John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"

 

Fireboat "Harry M. Archer  M.D."  operating at a fully involved pier fire.
  John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Harry M. Archer M.D."
 (1958-1994)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The second of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
"Marine 6"

 

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Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" 1958


Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" with its original extended cabin
New York City Fire Museum Collection

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 


Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" with its original extended cabin 1958 with Fire Fighter
    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender


Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" with its original extended cabin 1959
    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 


Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" with its original extended cabin
along side the John H. Glenn Jr. during a SCUBA evolution.
The cabin was shortened by mid 1963.
    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 

Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" Advertisement    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
c. Sept 1958

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 

 

Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" 
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 


Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" with its original extended cabin
    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 

Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" at Pier A
    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" at Pier A 1960
    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 

 


Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" operating Sept 11, 2001    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 

 


Fireboat Tender "Smoke II" headed to its final resting place
    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"Smoke II"
(1958-2008)
52' x 14' x 4'.  250 gpm
Built by Equitable Equipment Company, New Orleans, LA
Replaced the "Smoke"
Fireboat Tender

 

The "Smoke II" was in service from 1958 to July 15, 2008 when retired after 50 years of service.
The vessel was towed to sea and intentionally sunk about 3.8 nautical miles northeast of the
Manasquan Inlet in the Sea Girt Reef. It is intended to be part of an artificial reef which is
available for SCUBA adventure.

The following photos show the vessel in its final resting place.
    John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

 

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Fireboat "Senator Robert F. Wagner" 1959

 


Fireboat "Senator Robert F. Wagner."  
Launching at Mathis Shipyard
Photo courtesy of Al Trojanowicz

"Senator Robert F. Wagner"
(1959-1993)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The third of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
The Willett retired upon Wagner's delivery.
"Marine 5"
 

Fireboat "Senator Robert F. Wagner."  
At Marine 5 quarters foot of 90th St, East River
 John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Senator Robert F. Wagner"
(1959-1993)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The third of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
The Willett retired upon Wagner's delivery.
"Marine 5"

 


Fireboat "Senator Robert F. Wagner."  
At Marine 5 quarters foot of 90th St, East River
 John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Senator Robert F. Wagner"
(1959-1993)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The third of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
The Willett retired upon Wagner's delivery.
"Marine 5"
 


Fireboat "Senator Robert F. Wagner"  
shown during its brief reassignment to Marine 7 during the 1970s.
 John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Senator Robert F. Wagner"
(1959-1993)
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The third of four sister ships
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
The Willett retired upon Wagner's delivery.
"Marine 5"
 

 

 

 

 

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Fireboat "Governor Alfred E. Smith" 1961


Fireboat "Governor Alfred E. Smith"  
Launching at Mathis Shipyard
Photo courtesy of Al Trojanowicz

"Governor Alfred E. Smith"
(1961-      )
105'6" x 27' x 9'. 8000 gpm.
Built by John Mathis Shipyards, Camden, NJ
The last of four sister ships delivered
5 deck monitors and a 500 gallon foam tank
The Duane and Gaynor were retired upon Smith's delivery.
"Marine 6" "Marine 8"
 

 

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Small Fireboat "Blaze" 1961

 


Small Fireboat "Blaze"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Blaze"
 (1961-1970)
20' x 8' x 2.5 draft - 600 gpm
Built by John Mathis, Camden NJ
Stationed at Cross Bay Blvd
Saw limited duty


Small Fireboat "Blaze"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Blaze"
 (1961-1970)
20' x 8' x 2.5 draft - 600 gpm
Built by John Mathis, Camden NJ
Stationed at Cross Bay Blvd
Saw limited duty

 


Small Fireboat "Blaze"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Blaze"
 (1961-1970)
20' x 8' x 2.5 draft - 600 gpm
Built by John Mathis, Camden NJ
During the 1970s the Blaze briefly became a component of Marine 8
and was painted white.

 

Small Fireboat "Blaze"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Blaze"
 (1961-1970)
20' x 8' x 2.5 draft - 600 gpm
Built by John Mathis, Camden NJ
During the 1970s the Blaze briefly became a component of Marine 8
and was painted white.

 

 

 

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Fireboat "John H. Glenn Jr" 1962

 


FDNY Marine 4 "John H. Glenn Jr" 1962 pre-commissioning. 
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)

NOTE: The John H Glenn Jr. named for the NASA Astronaut.
 


FDNY Marine 4 1962 Plank Certificate "John H. Glenn Jr"  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 

 


FDNY Marine 4 "John H. Glenn Jr" 
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 

 


FDNY Marine 4 "John H. Glenn Jr" at Pier A
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 

 


FDNY Marine 4 "John H. Glenn Jr" operating
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 


FDNY Marine 4 "John H. Glenn Jr" with "Smoke II" SCUBA evolution.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 

 


FDNY Marine 4  "John H. Glenn Jr" Brooklyn waterfront   

John A. Calderone collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 


FDNY Marine 4  "John H. Glenn Jr" Brooklyn waterfront   
John A. Calderone collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 



FDNY Marine 4  "John H. Glenn Jr" at Bayside Marina fire, Queens - Feb 1969
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 


FDNY Marine 4  "John H. Glenn Jr" at Bayside Marina fire, Queens - Feb 1969
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)
 

 


FDNY Marine 4  "John H. Glenn Jr" at Bayside Marina fire, Queens - Feb 1969
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)

  "John H. Glenn Jr" at Marine 1 Pier A in 1973
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)

 

FDNY Marine 4  "John H. Glenn Jr" while serving at Marine 5 briefly
prior to decommissioning in mid 1970s
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)

 


 

Very rare photo of FDNY  "John H. Glenn Jr" as Marine 5
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)

The John H Glenn had been Marine 4.
During the budget crisis of the mid 1970s
it briefly served as Marine 5.

 

Some of the complex history of the 1970s FDNY Marine division from a historian.

     After FDNY was ordered to close Marine 4 at Ft Totten, Queens by City Hall's Budget Office, they took the JOHN H. GLENN Jr. out of reserve status and put her at the quarters of Marine 5 which had been the home of the SENATOR ROBERT F. WAGNER.

     The WAGNER had been relocated to Marine 7 to cover for the WILKS which had been relocated to Marine 9 to cover for the FIRE FIGHTER which was covering for the McKEAN (Marine 1) which was in dry dock repair in the mid 1970's for nearly 8 months.

     The original swap was;
    JOHN D. McKEAN out of service for repair and replaced by FIRE FIGHTER.
    The H. SYLVIA AHG WILKS was placed at Marine 9 covering for the relocated FIRE FIGHTER at Marine 1.
    The WAGNER was sent to cover MARINE 7 and even repainted it's stack with the number 7.
     FDNY relocated the JOHN H GLENN JR, which was in reserve status due to the closing of Marine 4 to cover the opening left by the WAGNER at Marine 5. Upon arrival at their new Marine 5 quarters they decided to repaint the Maltese Cross on the side of the GLENN with the designation Marine 5 since everyone knew Marine 4 was not coming back. Happily sitting at her new location at 90th St and to the best of every FDNY Fireboat historian's knowledge, the GLENN never responded to a single fire as Marine 5.

    Two months later the City of New York in their ongoing mid 1970's budget woes ordered FDNY to shutter the quarters of Marine 5. and Marine 7. The GLENN was then decommissioned and sent to the quarters of Marine 6 until it was sold to DCFD. The WILKS was ordered sold to the New York City Department of Marine and Aviation and was converted to a shop tug.

 

 


FDNY Marine 5  "John H. Glenn Jr" after Decommissioning at Marine 6 quarters
    John A. Calderone collection

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)

 

 


Former FDNY Fireboat  "John H. Glenn Jr" was transferred to
the Washington DC Fire Dept in 1978.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"JOHN H. GLENN, JR."
(1962-1977)
70' x 21' x 5'. 5000 gpm.
Built by Diesel Shipbuilding Company, Jacksonville, FL
3 monitors, 300 gallons of foam
"Marine 4" "Marine 5"
(later served as Washington, DC Fire Boat 1)

 

 

 

 

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Small Fireboat "Flame" 1963

 


Small Fireboat "Flame"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Flame"
 (1963-1970)
18' x 8" draft - 600 gpm
Fiberglass boat built by Buehler Turbo Craft
Queens, trailered by E-329
 


Small Fireboat "Flame"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Flame"
 (1963-1970)
20' x 8" draft - 600 gpm
Fiberglass boat built by Buehler Turbo Craft
Queens, trailered by E-329
 


 


Small Fireboat "Flame"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Flame"
 (1963-1970)
18' x 8" draft - 600 gpm
Fiberglass boat built by Buehler Turbo Craft
 

 


Small Fireboat "Flame"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Flame"
 (1963-1970)
18' x 8" draft - 600 gpm
Fiberglass boat built by Buehler Turbo Craft
 


 

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Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett" 1970

 


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty

 

Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett" with "Fire Fighter"
   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty

 

 


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty


 


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty

 


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty


Small Fireboat "James F. Hackett"   John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"James F. Hackett"
 (1970-1974)
29'3" - 8' - 2.5' draft - 2500 gpm
Fiberglass hull, a satellite unit with Marine 9
Saw limited duty

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Fireboat "John P. Devaney" 1992

 


Fireboat "John P Devaney"  
John Calderone photo

"John P. Devaney"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 6"
 

NOTE: John P. Devaney named for a firefighter killed in the line of duty.

 


Fireboat "John P Devaney"  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John P. Devaney"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 6"
 

NOTE: John P. Devaney named for a firefighter killed in the line of duty.

 


Fireboat "John P Devaney"  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John P. Devaney"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 6"
 

 


Fireboat "John P Devaney"  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"John P. Devaney"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 6"
 


The following article explains some of the brief history of the two SES
"surface effect ships" that served FDNY in 1994.

 

    The key feature the FDNY believed their next generation of fireboats needed was speed. Back in the days when ten fireboat companies were positions throughout the city, it hardly mattered how fast a fire boat could travel; the key things was pumping capacity, since most fire-prone locations were within sight of a fireboat's berth. But with fireboat stations in New York now down to three, getting to the scene quickly took on a new kind of importance. And so following the lead of the Tacoma (Washington) Fire Department, the FDNY ordered two high-performance fireboats from Textron Industries, vessels that were vertual twins of two units Tacoma put in service in the early 1980s. The reinforced plastic hulls of the new boats were built in Southhampton, England by Vosper Hovermarine and then sent to New Orleans - by ship - where Textron completed their fitting out. (From fireboat hulls made of wood to hulls made of iron to hulls made of steel... and now, hulls made of plastic.)

    The two boats are fast - specifications called for 30-knot speed, and this was reportedly exceeded during tests. The managed such high-speed performance by the use of a marine technology known as "surface effect"; thus are they known as "surface effect ships," or  SES.  Basically, the two 70-foot fireboats are twin hull catamarans with a fabric curtain enclosing the open space between the hulls. A powerful downward-facing fan forces air into this enclosure while the boats are underway, thus raising the boat and reducing draft from a normal 5'4" to 3'6". Propulsion is quite conventiional - twin direct drive diesels. But raising the hull almost two feet by "fan power," and thereby reducing drag while the boats are underway, is the key to achieving 30-knot speed with propulation engines that are relatively modest in size and output.

    In addition to speed, the two new fireboats feature far more in the way of automatic controls than do the older FDNY vessels. In theory, one person could comfortably operate all functions of the boat from a seated position in the wheelhouse, including the operation of the monitor guns. (In practice, FDNY assigned a crew of three marine ratings and two firefighters on each boat.) The new vessels have a pumping capacity of 7,075 GPM and cost the Fire Department a hefty $3.5 million each.

    The two SES fireboats were built, delivered, and accepted. John P. Devaney entered service on June 20, 1994, and Alfred E. Ronaldson two days later, on June 22.  Both boats were named in honor of FDNY firemen recently killed in the line of duty.

     Technical people from the Tacoma Fire Department traveled east to help train FDNY personnel in the operations of the new boats, but maintenance of the high-tech units proved to be much more than had been anticipated. Less than five months after they entered service, both Devaney and Ronaldson were officially stricken from the active roster and put up for sale. SES fireboats, at least in NEw York - proved to be a noble experiment that just didn't work.

     During their short tenure with the FDNY fleet, neither the Delaney nor the Ronaldson worked any truly memorable fires. On August 23, 1994, the Robinson, serving as Marine Company No.9, worked a pier fire across the Hudson River from Manhattan in Edgewater, New Jersey.   Four days earlier, on August 19, 1994, the Devaney, as Marine Company No. 6, helped put out a minor fire aboard the cruise ship Regal Empress while it was docked at North River Pier 90.

 

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Fireboat "Alfred E. Ronaldson" 1992
 

 


Fireboat "Alfred E. Ronaldson"  
John Calderone photo

"Alfred E. Ronaldson"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 9"

NOTE: Alfred E. Ronaldson named for a firefighter killed in the line of duty.

 


Fireboat "Alfred E. Ronaldson"  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Alfred E. Ronaldson"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 9"

NOTE: Alfred E. Ronaldson named for a firefighter killed in the line of duty.

 


Fireboat "Alfred E. Ronaldson" decommissioned c.1994  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Alfred E. Ronaldson"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 9"

 


Fireboats "Alfred E. Ronaldson" and "John P Devaney"
shown at the Navy Yard at decommissioning  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection

"Alfred E. Ronaldson"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 9"

"John P. Devaney"
(1992-1994)
70' x 19' x 5'4" 7075 gpm.
Built by Textron Marine, New Orleans
Plastic Surface effect Ship design
Shallow draft, capable of 30 knots
"Marine 6"

 


Fireboats "Alfred E. Ronaldson" and "John P Devaney"
shown at the Navy Yard after decommissioning  
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection


 

 

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Fireboat "Kevin C. Kane" 1992

 


FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" under construction.
Photo by and courtesy of Al Trojanowicz

 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"

 


FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" responding from the Brooklyn Navy Yard.
Photo by and courtesy of Al Trojanowicz

 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"

 


FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin Kane" responding.
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"


FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" in the East River passing
S. I. Ferry Samuel I. Newhouse
Photo by and courtesy of Al Trojanowicz

 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"

 


FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" with the Intrepid in tow.
Courtesy John Landers (unknown photographer)

 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"


FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" 
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"

FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" responding
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"

 

FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" hard at work 
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"

 

FDNY Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" at 125th St, Harlem River
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"

 

Fireboat Marine 6  "Kevin C. Kane" water display
John Landers - Beth Klein Collection
 

"KEVIN C. KANE"
(1992-2010 )
52' x 16' x 4'6". 6500 gpm.
Built by Gladding-Heard Shipbuilding
"Marine 6"

 

 

 

 

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-------------------------

Thanks to John Landers and Beth Klein for sharing these amazing historical images
of these old FDNY fireboats
August 2013 - October 9, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New York City, NY

F.D.N.Y.


Updated October 9, 2015

FDNY Marine Division   Old Fire Boats  
Old Marine 1 "McKean"  New Marine 1 "343"    Old Marine 2 "Harvey"  
Small Boats, Marine 3   Old Marine 6 "Kane"    New Marine 6 "Bravest"
Old Marine 9 "Fire Fighter"    New Marine 9 "Fire Fighter II  
NYPD Police Boats   Historic FDNY Fireboats Pre 1900
Historic FDNY Fireboats 1900-1950   Historic FDNY Fireboats 1950-2000

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