Founded on January 22, 1896, under the visionary leadership of local banker David W. Harkness, Cold Spring Hose Company No. 1 began its journey with nineteen distinguished businessmen of Cold Spring banding together to form a fire brigade. In 1900, it was rechristened as Cold Spring Fire Company No.1 (CSFC), marking the beginning of what is now a venerable 127-year legacy of community service.

CSFC stands as a beacon of safety and emergency response for the Villages of Cold Spring and Nelsonville, as well as the broader district in the Town of Philipstown. From its inception with just 19 members, the company's membership peaked at 250 in the 1960s and 70s, and today, it boasts 120 members, including 24 active and qualified New York firefighters. These dedicated volunteers provide around-the-clock emergency response services every day of the year.

Our leadership structure is composed of three distinct officer classifications. The firematic operations are led by a team of five officers, including the CSFC Chief, one Assistant Chief, and three company officers. The administrative side is managed by five elected officers, including a president and vice president. Additionally, the strategic direction is guided by three directors elected to our Board of Governors.

Operating from our firehouse at 154 Main Street in the heart of Cold Spring, our resources include two fire apparatus, two chief cars, a brush truck, a marine unit on the Hudson River, and an all-terrain utility vehicle for mountain rescues and brush fires. Our specialized equipment arsenal includes hydraulic extrication tools, mountain rescue gear, and cold-water rescue suits.

In 2023, CSFC responded to 223 emergency calls, including mutual aid within Philipstown. Notable incidents included a July flood, technical rescues in Hudson Highlands State Park, multiple wildland fires, and two significant structure fires, necessitating additional resources and personnel from neighboring districts and the State. The company also conducted 36 training drills, 12 member meetings, and 12 Board of Governor meetings.

Given the size of our volunteer force and the diverse and complex nature of our response district — which encompasses remote hillside homes, a bustling state park, a commuter rail line, the Hudson River, and a high volume of community visitors — our operational and training tempo is remarkably high. We ensure that our volunteers are equipped with the best training and equipment, enabling them to provide efficient and effective fire protection and emergency services to our community and its visitors.

For those interested in learning more about CSFC and the vital role it plays in our community, please feel free to contact us at info@coldspringfireco.org.