History

The formation of the Rhinecliff Volunteer Fire Company was considered during the meeting of the Rhinecliff improvement committee in May 1914 to reduce homeowners fire insurance rates. The following men were appointed to work with the improvement committee on the formation of the Fire Company: Jas McCarthy, Pierre Champlin, William O’Niel, Myron Heermance, and Fred Holsapple. A movement is also underway to secure funds for the purchase of a hose cart, hose, and other equipment and uniforms for the Company.

Early June 1914 the Rhinecliff village improvement committee and the fireman’s committee met on a Monday night and contracted with the Eureka hose company to purchase 500 Ft of hose, a hose cart, fire extinguishers, ladders and other equipment at a cost of $600.

On Monday evening June 25, 1914, a meeting of the men of Rhinecliff was held at the Morton Library to organize a fire company and write by-laws. The following men were selected to secure members: William Stahl, Bertner Kipp, and Albert Hunter. Robert Dedrick was elected as temporary Treasurer until the regular elections are held. There was a large attendance at this first meeting and most of the men present put down their names as members.

July 2, 1914, A meeting of the Fire Company was held at the Morton Library and various committees were heard. 21 men put down their names as members. The Fire Company was holding weekly meetings.

Tuesday evening July 16, 1914, the first officers were elected as follows: Chief-Myron Hermance, Foreman-Bertner E Kipp, 1st asst Foreman-George Dimler, 2nd asst Foreman- William Stahl, Secretary-R.L. Dedrick, Treasurer-A.G. Hunter, Trustees-William Tewkesbury, Tracy Hester, and W.J. Scott.

August 1914 The new hose cart has been received and is ready to use. It will be kept in the garage across from the Morton Library. The garage will soon be overhauled and lights put in. This Garage is still there as of 2026. 20 new member applications were also received and voted in. Oscar Allen and George Holsapple were a committee to purchase a fire bell.