Oneonta Fire Department History is Focus of GOHS Exhibit

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society has a new exhibition coming to its History Center at 183 Main Street. "Up from the Ashes, Oneonta Shaped by Fire" opens on Friday, February 12.

The exhibition will cover the history of Oneonta's early fire companies and the Oneonta Fire Department, notable Oneonta fires, Otsego County fire conventions, and, of course, the department's fire dogs. Dozens of artifacts will be displayed from the GOHS collections and on loan through the Oneonta Fire Department and others. The artifacts include a vintage pompier, an example of the "hook and ladder" that fire trucks are often named after. Also on display will be Otsego County fire convention medals and ribbons, firefighters' personal protection equipment, and other firefighting items.

An accompanying virtual Zoom presentation featuring exhibition highlights is in the works for March. The exhibition will remain on display at the History Center until Saturday, May 1.

The History Center also has on display during the month of February an exhibit on the history of the First United Presbyterian ("Red Door") Church and its restoration plans.

The History Center is open in February on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 12 noon to 4 PM and on Saturdays, 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is free. For more information, contact (607) 432-0960 or info@OneontaHistory.org.