In 1892, to honor those members who devoted their lives to the preservation of our lives and property, the Volunteer Firemen's Home was constructed in Hudson New York on 122 scenic acres overlooking the Hudson River. To help safeguard this long and exciting heritage, the American Museum of Firefighting was built on the grounds of the Home in 1925. The Firemen's Association of the State of New York was organized in 1872 by a special act of the Legislature and is the focal point for the activities of the 110,000 active and exempt volunteer firefighters of the State of New York, who we represent. The Association works and provides information in the fields of fire suppression and prevention, fire police, fire chiefs, fire training, legislation, civil service, fire department operations, fire districts, fire protection districts, emergency medical services, emergency rescue work, mutual aid, exempt and benevolent association management, two percent tax information, disaster, arson, and games of chance information. Information flows from this center where the activities of the Association are coordinated.
Committees work year-round to educate and inform the membership.
The Legislative Committee and the Legislative Representative have been instrumental in securing laws beneficial to the Volunteer Fire Service and general public. An Annual Convention, in existence since 1872, provides a forum for discussion on Fire Service issues, recognizing outstanding achievements and showcasing new ideas and equipment. Legislative Conferences are held twice yearly to adopt our legislative agenda and to monitor its progress. The Home provides professional care, activities and entertainment for the retired volunteer firemen residing there. The American Museum of Firefighting contains the most extensive and valuable collection of fire apparatus and memorabilia in the country.