By Mike Ciampo
The hamlet of Wading River (NY) was formed in 1671 on the north shore of Long Island. Fire protection in the early days was provided when neighbors helped neighbors and they were notified by the ringing of the church bell. As the years passed, neighboring communities created fire departments and they would assist the hamlet. However, since many of these departments were miles away, it took a long time for them to respond.
In the mid 1940’s, soldiers were returning from war and looked to move back into their hometown, something occurring in communities across the country. With the population growth and new homes, fire protection was needed. In 1947, the Wading River Fire Department was established through the efforts of many community-minded individuals.
The department’s first apparatus was a 1923 American La France rotary gear-type pumper purchased from another department for $500. Since a firehouse wasn’t constructed yet, the engine was housed in a member’s small garage. This was common among so many departments when they were starting up.
Wading River’s Ferrara HD107 aerial ladder.
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