Photo Courtesy of the Steamship Historical Society of America Collection

Proud History

In 1931 much was added to the New York scene, including John J. Harvey. She is in good company and shares a birthday with notable contemporaries like the Empire State Building and George Washington Bridge. To this day, she is the harbor's fastest big fireboat and remains the senior in longevity.

	History sections » Story of John J. Harvey » Engineering » FDNY fleet list » Transitions » Marine division » Fireboat locations

Hers is a long story, and here we will tell some of it, as well as that of the Fire Department family and City she is such an integral part of.

Two of the most famous transatlantic liners were Normandie and Queen Mary. Remember that Harvey was on station to welcome them both when they came here brand new, and is still here long after they have left. Yes, hers is a Proud History.

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Story of John J. Harvey
Follow Harvey's story from conception in the 1920s to today.

Engineering
Harvey is our first modern fireboat. What made her what many consider the best and why she has lasted so long is explained here. Read more.

Transitions
See the changes in principles of fireboat design.

Fleet List
All fireboats on the FDNY roster since 1875.

FDNY Marine Division
How administration of the fireboats is organized.

Fireboat Locations
As the fleet grew, and as it was reduced, fireboat locations changed. See where they were then, and where they are now.

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History section written by Al Trojanowicz, whose contributions to the depth and accuracy of this site are invaluable.

» Read Al Trojanowicz' bio