Rensselaer Falls Fire Department History

03/31/2026

Now that is a trust fall.

Talk about making an entrance. In 1954, Probationary Fireman Lawrence Monachelli jumped from 50 feet at City Hall during the Fireman's Day Parade, and someone made sure the camera was ready.

📍 City Hall, New York City | March 31, 1954

03/27/2026

This photo makes me think we should be doing a yearly group photo of everyone in the FD.

Because photos like this are absolutely priceless.

03/10/2026

The newpaper from September 13th 1927 isn't about what you see on the front page.

I do find it interesting though that I'm only learning now that Babe Ruth was arrested for assauting someone and putting them in the hospital for a month, and yes that Lindbergh guy is still known today as well.

This is about the Fair at Rensselaer Falls back then, and while most of it doesn't speak about the fire department itself but more of the festivities. It sounds like it was an amazing event for all.

If only there were a picture to go along with this one line.

"Then 'came the fire truck with apparatus manned by Fire Chief Van C. Lytle and company of firemen. "

02/23/2026

Training days gone by.

Down by the old bridge, no one goes home dry.

02/12/2026

The caption on the photo says it all.

Except, I do want to know if I can watch some donkey baseball nowadays.

02/08/2026

This is a playful throwback to the RFFD history.

There have to be kids in this picture that still live around here.

Maybe even are current members of the Dept.

01/02/2026

November 1972.

Floyd Newcombe and Mr. Claus.

11/18/2025

A little fundraising back in 1964.

11/03/2025

This isn't RFFD history, but it has to do with Corning, FD and history... I'll toss it up anyhow.

This 1960's Jeep fire truck was used in the since closed Corning plant in Charleroi Pennsylvania.

It's a bit unconventional, but boy wouldn't this make a handy little brush truck for Rensselaer Falls.

10/29/2025

As reported on October 3rd 1902 by the New York Times.

09/11/2025

July 10th, 1979
Rural News gave the front page to Rensselaer Falls Fire Department to mark the burning of the mortgage on June 30th.

The plans were to pay the building off in 13 years, but it was accomplished in only 7 years.

Built in 1972, the building is still the home of the department so many thanks go out to all that were involved.