Firehouse Engine Co. Thirty-Three

History and architecture

Dominated by a graceful arch, monumental in scale, this late Nineteenth Century Firehouse is a striking example of the French Beaux Arts style of architecture. A daring design in its day, the impressive facade contains a number of elements which are strongly influenced by the French architectural style of Louis XV. This utilitarian building has a flamboyance that is particularly appropriate to the function of the hazardous profession engaged in by its occupants.

Four stories high with its brick and stone structure and various interesting forms, materials and color, it is an exceptionally distinguished public building.

The large central arch, rising from a strong rusticated stone base; contains an elegantly carved keystone above a cartouche, within the deep concave stone surrounds. Grouped toother within this wide arch, and arising through three floors, are four windows at each level arranged into a highly pleasing composition.

The tall French windows on the second and fourth floors are enhanced by decorative metal railings. Particularly handsome is the ornate design of free flowing curves at the second floor railing which, in part, rests on a narrow balcony projecting forward from the center of the building. Augmenting this composition is an elaborately decorated pediment above the third floor windows. Two large vehicular doors on the ground floor have three centered arches of graceful proportions.

Crowning this structure is a,vary deep metal roof cornice ornamented with antefixae, fleur-de-lis and other classic forms. It is supported on large scroll type brackets of unusually good design, set in pairs.

The New York City Fire Department had its origin in the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam when the first fire ordinance was adopted by the settlers in 1643, under the administration of Governor Stuyvesant. This ordinance established a fire watch of eight men. The first paid company, Metropolitan Engine No. 1., went into service on July 31, 1865 at No. 4 Centre Street. For two hundred and eight years before 1865, the fire force consisted of volunteers, with a great tradition of their own.

From this modest beginning the New York Fire Department has grown to 367 companies with over 13,000 uniformed firemen. Fire Engine Company No. Thirty-Three is but one of the 280 fire houses in the five boroughs of the City.