The Voyage of Fireboat John D McKean Continues

After a lifetime of service on the Hudson River, on April 27th the historic Fireboat John D McKean will leave her dock in Sleepy Hollow, New York for destinations unclear at this writing.

The McKean is no stranger to adventure. Her history spans 65 years and includes dramatic rescues at sea, including hundreds of people during 9/11, and assisting in the safe transport of passengers from the wing of US Airways Flight 1549 from the frigid waters during the "Miracle on the Hudson" in 2009.

During her time in Sleepy Hollow, The McKean’s meticulous restoration has been continued daily by her caretaker, restaurateur Edward Taylor, along with the tireless help of Miguel Valle and a crew of volunteer firefighters determined to honor and preserve her legacy.

The McKean's current location has been the subject of significant media attention. While most locals and village officials enthusiastically agree that she could be a great asset to tourism, history and education as a museum ship, a small but vocal number of waterfront residents feel she is obstructing their view of the river.

The Fireboat McKean Preservation Project’s goal is to continue to restore and preserve the ship and to find her a permanent home in a harmonious environment where the public can accessibly experience and enjoy the historic maritime treasure she is. It is in service of this harmony and mission that the ship departs Sleepy Hollow on April 27th.

While there is tremendous support for the McKean to remain in the vicinity, the closest option, the Tarrytown marina, is in a state of disrepair which rules it out as an option at this time.

As a result, the Fireboat McKean Preservation Project is seeking alternative dockage options for the immediate future. A berth at a donated or reduced cost would be ideal, but the non-profit is also fundraising to help secure accommodations. Her technical specs are 129 ft. 3 in. in length, 9 ft. draft, 14 ft. 3 in. depth, 30 ft. beam, 50 ft. height, gross tonnage of 330, and net tonnage of 224. Ideas, suggestions and offers of support are very welcome and can be sent to info@fireboatmckean.org.

In addition, major maintenance steps are due, which will include hauling the Fireboat and re-plating the ship’s bottom, an undertaking which is expected to cost in excess of $100,000.

To donate and learn more, visit https://www.fireboatmckean.org/take-action. The Fireboat McKean Preservation Project is a registered 501(c)(3) charity. All donations are tax deductible.

In the meantime, the venerable Fireboat John D McKean prepares for her next journey.