History of the Cortlandt Engine Company No. 1
Montrose, New York

Founding Years: A Community Responds to Its Own Needs (1919–1920)

The Cortlandt Engine Company No. 1 was founded in response to a simple but urgent realization - Montrose needed organized fire protection. In the summer of 1919, a small group of concerned citizens gathered at the Montrose School House to form what they envisioned as a Benevolent and Protection Association. This grassroots initiative marked the earliest efforts to provide fire and emergency support in the hamlet. L.H. Rabe chaired the meeting, with A.C. Elinghaus serving as secretary. Among those present were Harry Neilson, J.R. Chase, H.S. Reynolds, and Edward Shoenfield. Their discussions laid the foundation for what would soon become a lasting institution.

Later that same year, the group formally adopted the name Cortlandt Engine Company. Their primary mission was clear: acquire land and construct a building suitable for housing fire apparatus and coordinating emergency response. A building committee was appointed, composed of W. Roe, C. Scheuber, H. Grune, W. Bynes, J. Chase, H.B. Neilson, and S. Bagardus - men who would play a pivotal role in bringing the vision to life. In January 1920, the company purchased a parcel of land from O.B. Lent for $800. As soon as weather allowed, volunteers began digging the foundation, relying on sheer determination and community generosity. Fundraising efforts included schoolhouse dances and turkey raffles, while local businesses, such as the Standard Oil Cloth Company of Buchanan, donated essential building materials like sand.

Growth, Service, and Commitment to Montrose

From its inception, the Cortlandt Engine Company embodied the spirit of volunteerism and public service. As the community grew, so did the company's responsibilities and capabilities. The original firehouse became a hub not just for emergency response, but for civic engagement. Over the decades, the department adapted to changing technologies, evolving from hand-drawn and early motorized apparatus to today’s state-of-the-art firefighting equipment. Training standards increased, mutual aid agreements were formalized, and community education became an integral part of the mission.

Cortlandt Engine Company No. 1 has responded to thousands of emergencies - structure fires, medical calls, vehicle accidents, severe weather incidents, and hazardous conditions. Despite modern advancements, the company's roots remain grounded in the traditions of dedication, community trust, and neighbor helping neighbor. It continues to function as a 100% volunteer entity, with members devoting their time, training, and skills without compensation. Many are multi-generational firefighters, passing down a legacy of service to future volunteers.

Institutional Strength and Future Vision

Today, the Cortlandt Engine Company is recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, incorporated under the laws of New York State. It maintains an active partnership with the Montrose Fire District and supports community safety through fire prevention education, emergency preparedness outreach, and mutual aid participation throughout Westchester County. While the company proudly honors its heritage - dating back to its founding on October 19, 1919 - it also looks forward, investing in equipment upgrades, expanding training programs, and recruiting the next generation of volunteer firefighters.

More than a century after its founding, Cortlandt Engine Company No. 1 remains a cornerstone of public safety in Montrose. Its history is not only a record of buildings and apparatus, but a living story of citizens who chose to protect their community with courage, unity, and unwavering commitment.