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It was 150 years ago yesterday that the Homer Fire Department was created to serve the residents of Homer and surrounding communities.
On Friday, April 7th, the Village of Homer issued a proclamation to declare April 10th as Homer Fire Department Day to honor the men and women who served the residents in the past and for those who continue to uphold the legacy of service today.
Deputy Mayor of Homer Pat Clune spoke at the reading of the proclamation during the Homer Fire Departments annual meeting and elections.
“A 150 years ago, a group of citizens joined together to create an organization to protect and help their community. A 150 years later, a group of citizens are gathered here to continue that mission. Your sacrifice, your time, energy, and body for little recognition and no pay, is a testament to your duty, character, and selflessness.” Deputy Mayor Pat Clune said during the event.
The first fire station for Homer was built on James Street for $2,100 and in 1920, the first fire truck, a Brockway truck, was purchased. The current home of the Homer Fire Department, 45 South Main Street, was built in 1941 and then expanded in the 70s.
Three Hose Companies are now part of the Homer Fire Department. Those companies are: Triumph Hose Company Number 1, Tioughnioga Hose Co. No. 2, and West Side Co. No. 3.
Another Fire Department in Cortland County credits their formation from the Homer Fire Department. That Fire Department is Cortlandville. Homer Fire covered the Town of Cortlandville up to 1982, when the department was created.
The Homer Fire Department continues to serve both the Village and Town of Homer, Town of Scott, and Cortland County and surrounding fire districts through mutual aid.
