Rhinecliff Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Squad

The Rhinecliff Volunteer Fire Company was organized in 1914. Originally, the firehouse was located on the site across from Morton Library on Kelley Street, in a small wooden garage. In times of fire, the rim of a locomotive wheel would be banged for a bell. In 1926-1927, a brick building was built on the corner of Shatzell and Orchard Sts. The architect was William J. Beardsly. Later, an addition was built in order to accommodate a new fire truck. In the early to mid-1900s, The Rhinecliff Volunteer Fire Company was more than a volunteer service. The company was held by the bonds and friendships unique to a small place. The company would throw many annual social events: a carnival in the parking lot of the firehouse, complete with a ferris wheel, a clam bake at the Firemen’s Field on Valley Way Road with legendary card games going on late into the night. They had a baseball team known as the “Dock Rats” and sponsored a Little League team. The Ladies Auxiliary was formed mainly by the wives of the firemen. In times of trouble, they would prepare food and beverages at the firehouse, take it to the fire scene, and help keep the men on task. Today, the Rhinecliff Fire Company continues its traditions as a volunteer company. The Hamlet of Rhinecliff is a residential community within the Town of Rhinebeck, located approximately 90 miles north of New York City. It spans approximately 15 square miles and has about 750 permanent residents. In recent years, the population that works in the Fire District has significantly decreased. Currently the Rhinecliff Volunteer Fire Company is comprised of 75 members, of which 25 are active.