BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) At 123 years old, the Edward M. Cotter is the world's oldest working fireboat. It's moored in Buffalo near the Michigan Avenue Life Bridge, at Ohio Street and Michigan Avenue.
A capital campaign has been launched for the Cotter to raise funds for the restoration and preservation of the fireboat. A goal of $6 million dollars has been set.
"We're also announcing a save the date. On June 25th, Cotterfest is planned at Buffalo Riverworks from 1 p.m.- 5 p.m.," said Larry Cobado, Chairman of the Edward M. Cotter Capital Campaign. The campaign is still looking for a presenting sponsor for Cotterfest.
"We all remember last year, there was a collective gasp when the USS Sullivans started to list at the Buffalo Naval Park. We want to make sure that nothing like that happens to the Cotter. The community rallied behind the Cotter and we're hoping for the same embrace."
In addition to the capital campaign and Cotterfest, Gene McCarthy's Old First Ward Brewing Company has announced they are brewing a special Cotter beer that will be available in March.
Discover 716 is managing the Cotter's social media campaign. Cobado said Western New York has really embraced the Cotter.
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The Cotter was built in 1900 by the Crescent Shipyard of Elizabeth Port, New Jersey. It was built out of Swedish steel and there is an extra layer on the lower part of the hull, designed specifically for ice breaking. Cobado said the Cotter is really an icebreaker with firefighting capabilities.
It was designated a national landmark in 1996.
The Cotter has responded to multiple fires in Buffalo and Port Colborne. It was used once to pump-out the USS Little Rock.
It currently serves as Engine 20 in the Buffalo Fire Department. Donations to the Edward M. Cotter capital campaign are being accepted HERE.
