6-20-2023 11:49pm

St James Fire House Nominated To Become an Historic Site.

Samantha Hespos Editor

St James Fire House that is located at 533 Route 25A in St. James, New York was nominated has one of sixteen sites in New York State for the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Governor Kathy Hochul made this announcement on June 8, 2023. The 100 year old firehouse was nominated including its garage. The fire house was designed and built by Lawrence Smith Butler in 1923. This vernacular arts and crafts style volunteer firehouse is in the hamlet of St. James, within the town of Smithtown. The St. James Fire House falls within the St. James Historic District (National Registry listed ,1973) and this nomination intends to update the record and recognize this building for its architectural and historic significance within the village. For 100 years, the building has operated has a firehouse and community gathering space .The firehouses original design and subsequent expansions demonstrate a remarkably cohesive arts and crafts influence with nods to Beaux-Arts style in the structure's balance and symmetry. In addition to its architecture, the firehouse represents the important role the volunteer department played in the community, both for providing critical fire protection and promoting camaraderie through social activities and entertainment. In addition to the firehouse, the nomination includes the 1972 Colonial Revival style garage which is used for storage and office space. In the early 1930's the department formed a drum and bugle band, with the founder Professor Psota teaching the firefighters how to parade and play instruments and cited as " one of the greatest contributions to the community from the department." Additionally, the departments " Wildcat" racing team has won the title of New York State champion four times and earned thousand of trophies throughout the years. Today the volunteer fire department has over 100 members and continues holding community events.

copied from a Next Door neighbor