Brooklyn Engine Co. 17 - Heather Cardinal

Before the FDNY provided unified fire protection to all of New York, a band of loosely knit volunteer companies under the umbrella of the Brooklyn Fire Department protected Brooklyn.  Engine Co. 17 was one of the most well-known and prominent in the borough. Located on Lawrence St and Myrtle Ave (only a stone's throw away from FDNY HQ), Eng Co. 17 responded with a reputation for being very disciplined and courageous.  

In 1849 the 17 House bought a Philadelphia patterned 'piano box' engine which quickly earned the name 'haywagon' because of its long and flat appearance.  The men who climbed up and down and worked the pump so quickly and gracefully were said to look like grasshoppers.  Even after they purchased a newer steam powered engine, 'The Hoppers' kept their name and their mascot for the rest of the company's existence.  

At its high point, Engine Co. 17 boasted 75 members and their firehouse was regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country.

In collaboration with the NYC Fire Museum, Hook and Irons is proud to share this bit of New York City history while doing its part to support the museum and its rich archives.

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