The Emerald Standard - Worlds Fastest Engine Company

In 1878, a group of Irish immigrants in Cortland, New York, organized a volunteer fire company.  With names like Fitzgerald, Cleary, Byrne and Dolan the founding members gave their company a name that left no doubt about who they were.

They called it Emerald Hose Company No. 4.

In the late 19th century, volunteer fire companies were more than emergency responders. They were social clubs, political networks, and cultural anchors—especially for immigrant communities. For Irish families building new lives in upstate New York, the firehouse became a proving ground. Service earned respect. Discipline earned reputation. Winning earned pride.

Emerald Hose Co. No. 4 delivered all three.

By the mid 1880's they completed construction of a firehouse on 45 Central Ave.  The façade carried decorative firefighting motifs: classical flourishes, symbolic detailing, and sculptural elements that spoke to speed, courage, and civic pride.

Built for Speed

While Emerald answered alarms, their legend was forged during competitions with other fire companies.

In the 1800s, hose companies competed in timed events: sprinting a hose carriage down the street, making hydrant connections, stretching line, and flowing water—sometimes in front of thousands of spectators. These competitions were brutal tests of coordination and conditioning. They were also public theater.

Emerald became dominant.

Period accounts credit them with holding world-record times for more than a decade. Their team ran with military precision—helmets low, boots pounding, carriage wheels rattling behind them. Winning wasn’t just about trophies. It was about identity.

An Irish fire company, in a young American city, proving its strength in broad daylight.  The Emerald Hose Co. was a testament to what makes this country so great.

Hook & Irons is proud to highlight this American story for St. Patrick's Day with a limited run of our Emerald Hose Co. 4 'Fastest to The Fire' tee and hoodie. 

While the Emerald Hose Co. doesn't exist anymore, the tradition and pride still lives on in the Cortland Fire Department.