Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) The city of Buffalo is celebrating a milestone. Monday marks the 125th anniversary of Buffalo's beloved fireboat.
"March 24, 1900 was the day that the keel was laid for the Edward M. Cotter," said Larry Cobado, President of the Cotter Conservancy.
"Today is the day that we are actually celebrating the 125th anniversary. A special celebration is happening at Gene McCarthy's Tavern at 73 Hamburg Street in South Buffalo where a special beer has been brewed for the occasion and we're kicking off a Capital Campaign for the Cotter."
Bill Metzger, owner of Gene McCarthy's, has brewed a special 'Icebreaker IPA' for the occasion. The beer will be available at the restaurant and available for take out.
Buffalo's fireboat is the oldest active fireboat in the world. It was designated a national historic landmark in 1996.
It has fought many historic fires over the years and is a much needed ice breaker on the Buffalo River.
Mayor Chris Scanlon proclaimed Monday "Edward M. Cotter Day."
The Cotter Conservancy is also announcing a Capital Campaign to keep the boat afloat.
"We're honored to be able to take care of the Edward M. Cotter," said Cobado. The Cotter is owned by the city of Buffalo but all maintenance costs fall on the nonprofit, Edward M. Cotter Conservancy.
"The first phase of our goal is $3 million dollars. We need to get the boat back into dry dock to address the hull for its ice breaking potential. There are also much needed engine repairs that need to be done," added Cobado.
You can find more information about the Capital Campaign for the Cotter HERE.
More celebrations for the Cotter are planned this year, including Cotterfest at Buffalo's Riverside Park on Saturday, September 20 from 1pm to 6pm.