BUFFALO, NY — New York State Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera today announced that he has secured $125,000 in state funding to replace the transmission on the historic Edward M. Cotter fireboat, ensuring the continued operation of one of Buffalo’s most treasured landmarks and an irreplaceable piece of maritime history.

The funding comes as Wardynski Meats, led by owner Skip Wardynski, announced a generous private donation to renovate and modernize the vessel’s galley, further supporting ongoing efforts to preserve the iconic fireboat for future generations.

Last year, the Edward M. Cotter celebrated an extraordinary milestone: 125 years of continuous service on Buffalo’s waterfront.

“Few pieces of Buffalo history are as beloved or as enduring as the Edward M. Cotter,” said Assemblymember Rivera. “For 125 years, this remarkable vessel has protected our waterfront, responded to emergencies, broken ice during harsh winters, and served as a symbol of Buffalo’s resilience. This funding will help ensure that the Cotter remains operational for years to come.”

Built in 1900 and still actively serving the City of Buffalo today, the Edward M. Cotter holds the distinction of being the oldest active fireboat in the world. Construction began on March 24, 1900, in Elizabeth Port, New Jersey, at a cost of $91,000, equivalent to more than $3.4 million today. Originally christened as the William S. Grattan, the vessel entered service on November 15, 1900, as Engine 20 in Buffalo’s fireboat fleet.

Over the decades, the fireboat has become a legendary fixture on the Great Lakes. Following a devastating explosion and fire in 1928 that claimed the life of Chief Engineer Thomas Lynch, the vessel was rebuilt and modernized. Additional major upgrades in the 1950s transformed the boat with diesel engines, twin propellers, and enhanced firefighting capabilities before it was renamed in honor of Buffalo firefighter Edward M. Cotter.

The Cotter has since responded to countless emergencies, including major industrial fires, maritime rescues, towing operations, and icebreaking missions. In recognition of its historic significance, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1996.

“Buffalo has always been a city that values its history, but preserving history requires investment,” said Rivera. “The Edward M. Cotter remains an active working vessel that continues to serve our community. Replacing its transmission is a critical investment in both public safety and historic preservation.”

Assemblymember Rivera also thanked the Edward M. Cotter Conservancy for its ongoing stewardship of the vessel and recognized Wardynski Meats for stepping forward to support the project.

Established in 2016, the Edward M. Cotter Conservancy works to preserve and maintain the historic vessel. In 2023, the organization launched Cotterfest, an annual celebration honoring the fireboat’s legacy and its continuing service to Buffalo and Western New York.

“With a major upkeep project ahead to keep the world's oldest working fireboat in service, the Edward M. Cotter conservancy would like to thank Assemblyman Jonathan Rivera for his unwavering support and commitment,” said Kyle Zappia, chair of the Edward M. Cotter Conservancy. “We would also like to thank Skip Wardynski from Wardynski Meats for his extreme generosity for the renovation our galley.”