A shiny new fire engine sat parked next to Pioneer Engine Company in Ellenville on July 1. Volunteer fire fighters walked in and out of the firehouse, looking down the road for the guests they were expecting. If you happened to be passing by the Pioneer Firehouse you couldn't have missed the parade of fire engines that pulled into the parking lot and surrounded the new fire engine. They joined Pioneer Engine Company in a firehouse tradition known as a "wet down".

"A wet down is a christening for a new truck," said fire chief Peter Pinkerous, while preparing for the event. Fire companies from Napanoch, Cragsmoor, Kerhonkson, Summitville, Woodbourne, Loch Sheldrake and Ellenville all simultaneously sprayed down the new truck with water while sharing good spirit, food and camaraderie.

The company or district generally purchases a new truck every five to ten years. This wet down coincided with the 150-year anniversary celebration of the Pioneer Engine Company, which was formed in 1857. Pioneer is the first, oldest and longest running fire company in Ellenville.

With a firehouse full of firefighters, a cookout and party naturally followed.

Later in the day Councilwoman Sue Cummings (R) presented the men and women of Pioneer with an award from State Senator John Bonacic (R-NY) that honored and recognized their 150 years of service.

Presently there are three generations of firefighters in the Pioneer Company and approximately seven members with 50 years of service.

Peter Williams – whose grandparents and parents were also members of the company – is now a lieutenant who started out as a junior firefighter. Al "Pappy" North, has been a member for 45 years and he also has grandchildren in the company.

Last year, the company responded to 300 calls. Pioneer Engine Company recently had a large dinner and award banquet at the White Wolf restaurant to commemorate 150 years of service to the community.

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