MONTICELLO – The Monticello Fire Department will be celebrating its 150th Anniversary tomorrow, March 8.

Since its inception in 1875 following a major fire  in 1874 that destroyed several major buildings, the Fire Department has been hard at work keeping Monticello and the surrounding communities safe.
“It is an honor and privilege to serve as the Chief of the Monticello Fire Department, especially as we celebrate this impressive milestone,” said Chief Jon Wells. “I have been a member for 35 years, during which time I have learned a great deal and formed many friendships within the fire service. We have an outstanding group of volunteers and career firefighters who make the Monticello Fire Department a distinguished organization.”

History

Nine years after the end of the Civil War, with Ulysses S. Grant serving as President, the residents of Monticello, New York, took a pivotal step toward organized fire protection. 

On March 8, 1875, a meeting was held to discuss the formation of a new fire department, bringing together 83 charter members committed to safeguarding their community. 

Just two days later, on March 10, 1875, they reconvened at Pelton’s Hall and the office of A.C. Butts, where the Monticello Fire Department was officially established.

That night, two companies were formed: Monticello Engine Company #1 and Mountain Hose Company #1.

By February 1876, the department expanded with the creation of Rescue Hook and Ladder, consisting of 124 new members, none of whom were part of the original two companies. 

At the time, Monticello had a population of just 912 residents, meaning nearly one-tenth of the village served as volunteer firefighters—a testament to the town’s dedication to public safety.

Leadership was quickly established, with Friend W. Johnson appointed as Fire Chief Engineer on June 30, 1875, followed by John F. Tymeson, who took over as Chief Engineer on August 23, 1875. 

Initially, the department’s fire equipment was stored in local barns and businesses, as no formal firehouse had yet been built. This changed in 1893, when the department’s equipment was moved into its first official firehouse, located within the Village Hall building on Broadway.

The fire department remains a vital force in the community, operating with a dedicated team of firefighters and a fleet of specialized apparatus to ensure public safety.

The Monticello Fire Department proudly serves a 65-square-mile district, encompassing the entire Village of Monticello and the western portion of the Town of Thompson in Sullivan County, New York. With an average of 1,300 emergency calls per year – 3.5 calls per day –  the department plays a crucial role in the safety and well-being of its community.

Being the Chief of MFD [Monticello Fire Department] is a rewarding job, but Monticello is a bustling department, which can also make it stressful and challenging,” explained Wells. “I’m certain that some of the original members who fought fires using horses for transportation and water brigades could have never imagined that 150 years after our incorporation, MFD would be responding to 1,800 calls in 2024, using engines that pump over a thousand gallons of water per minute along with other incredible technologies to keep our community safe.”

Maintaining a Tradition of Excellence

The Monticello Fire Department has been recognized for its commitment to firefighter safety and service.

In 2007, the department was awarded The Seal of Excellence by the National Fallen Firefighter Life Safety Interactive Program, Everyone Goes Home. 

The following year, in 2008, they received The Code of Fearless Award from the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation and the New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation.

Beyond firefighting, the department also responds to all life-threatening medical emergencies within its district. According to their website, 25 members are certified New York State Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), ensuring prompt and professional medical assistance when needed.

“The hard work and dedication of our members are truly remarkable. The words “adapt,” “overcome,” and “hard work” best describe how firefighters have carried on the long tradition of brotherhood and sisterhood, providing excellent service for the past 150 years,” stated Wells. “I look forward to many more years of serving my community and hope the Monticello Fire Department will continue to thrive for another 150 years.”

Pioneering Specialized Rescue Efforts

Recognizing the need for advanced rescue capabilities, the Monticello Fire Department established Sullivan County’s first Trench Collapse Unit in 2007. 

This specialized team, composed of highly trained professional volunteers, is equipped to respond to trench rescues and building collapses, not only within Monticello but also in support of neighboring county fire departments. 

The unit was made possible through grants secured by Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther and State Senator John Bonacic, along with the dedication of MFD Chief Marc Friedland and Carl Houman, former Director of Fire Safety.

A Commitment to Service and Preparedness

The Monticello Fire Department is no longer just a fire suppression service—it has evolved into a comprehensive emergency response agency. Its responsibilities now include:

Fire protection and suppression

Fire prevention education

Fire code enforcement and plan review

Emergency medical services (EMS)

Hazardous materials response (HAZMAT)

Specialized rescues, including trench collapse and building collapse operations

The department places training, education, and experience at the core of its mission, ensuring its members are prepared to handle emergencies at a moment’s notice.

As the needs of the community continue to grow, the Monticello Fire Department remains dedicated to professionalism, safety, and service, always striving to protect lives and property with the highest level of efficiency and expertise.

Membership Breakdown

The department consists of:

44 Active Volunteer Members

9 Career Firefighters

50+ Exempt Members (former active members who have served their time)

27 Auxiliary Members (support personnel assisting in non-firefighting roles)

Firefighting Apparatus

The department is equipped with a range of apparatus to handle various emergency situations, including:

Engines: 22-11, 22-12, 22-13, 22-14

Ladder Truck: 22-41

Utility Vehicle: 22-51

Rescue Units: 22-61 (General Rescue), 22-63 (Technical Rescue)

“I am proud to be a part of such a great organization, and I pray for the health and safety of my brothers and sisters. Together we are unified, together we are MFD strong!” said Wells.