Harmony Community Center - Town of Charlton, Saratoga County, NY

prepared for the Festival of Families in 1992

A Glimpse of Harmony Hall
and
Related Organizations

Compiled in 1992 by
Centennial Committee of Harmony Hall

Charlton, N.Y.
Harmony Community Center
Publisher

This is a collection of articles and photos about Harmony Hall, its beginning, and the various organizations that have taken part in its history. Many of them have been previously published. We have gathered them together under one cover for your enjoyment.

Privately printed in the USA
1992
NOTE: photos are not included in this online version
Table of Contents
History of Harmony Farmers’ Club Read at Club Meeting, Apri1 14, 1944 by George DeRidder Clerk’s Record Book of Historic 137 Year-Old Parent School Stirs Memories of Pioneer Days by George DeRidder - 1951 History of Harmony Hall by Alice Pashley - written in 1985 The Three Brave Souls by Alice Pashley - written in 1991 Harmony Corners Fire District by Vernon Pashley - written in 1992 Members of Ladies’ Auxiliary The CNYSFDTA has a New Champion - 1975 by Richard Lanne The Harmony Hall 4-H Club – Second in the County by Dorothy Arnold Garrison The Harmony Home Bureau by Dot Mitchell Reorganization of Harmony Hall to Benefit Community by Tar Riedinger - written in 1992

History of Harmony Farmer's Club
Read at Club Meeting, Apri1 14, 1944
by George W. DeRidder
Fifty-four years ago, back in 1890, before the day of the auto, flying machine, radio and a good many other things that we call the necessities of life (in those days a horse and buggy ride was something to look forward to) time apparently was not so valuable then as now, the old nag did a pretty good job of getting us there and back. But the Old Gray Mare ain't what she used to be. Then barber shops were for men, most men wore whiskers over part or all of their faces, nearly every man had a fur coat and his top piece was a derby hat; those were the days when the men wore the pants, and the woman wore skirts, and the women also wore bustles, the Lord only knows why some of them did.
To get back to 1890, that was the year that the Farmer's League was organized (This was the forerunner of the Farmer's Club) The League's Charter was signed March 10, 1890. They met in the Parent School House, Peaceable Street - there was no Harmony Corners then. The Post Office was Birchton, named after the Birch Family. There was no Parcel Post, no Telephone, and no Electric lights. Those that signed the League's Charter were: L. Kipp, J.S. DeRidder, Stephen Barnes, David Fairweather and James R. South. Jim is the only one left that signed the Charter 54 years ago. The first meeting of the League was held March 18, 1890. The last, as near as I can ascertain, was August 26, 1891. There were 40 names on the roll.
At this time the Patrons of Industry was a prominent organization, there being several in the County. The main object of the P. of I. was financial, contracts were made to buy goods at a discount with several stores and people came from far and near to join until there were 185 names on the roll. The first meeting of the P. of I. was held Sept. 15, 1891. The following signed the Charter. Paul Brust, J.P.Mosher, John S. DeRidder, F .H. Tibbetts, Cary Lasher, C.E. Phillips, Ransom South, George Laird, A Mead, Mrs. J.L. Parent, Mary South, M.T. Holbrook, H.R. Holbrook, and Frank Holbrook. Of the 14 who signed the Charter 53 years ago, only these survive: Ransom South, Henry and Frank Holbrook. I have no idea where the Charter is and wish it could be found so that we could frame it and hang it here in the Hall with the others.
The meetings of the P. of I. were held in the Parent School House. The membership grew so fast that soon there was not room to accommodate them all and soon there began talk of building a hall, and on April 26, 1892, a vote was taken, and carried unanimously in favor of building a hall; a Building Committee was appointed July 26, 1892 and the Hall was dedicated January 27, 1893. At the dedication the proceeds of the supper was $57.73 and we did not have the kitchen then that we have now, the kitchen was the north half under the balcony.
The cost of the Hall in money was $720.56. This does not include the labor and material that was furnished by the members drawing the stone for the foundation, helping the mason lay the foundation. William Baker was paid $17.50 for work on the foundation. The rest of the work was done by the members, after the foundation was done everybody went to work on the woodwork, anybody that could drive a nail and not bend too many was on the job. The rough lumber cost $12.00 a 1000. The chimney was built by Henry Springer for $1.50.
There were a few entertainments that sort of stand out among the rest. On June 12, 1894 Mr. George Hodsoll of Ballston Spa, gave a Phonograph concert here, it was the first phonograph that most of us had ever heard or seen. It was one with wax cylinder records. At that time some of the singers here sang to make a record, and they did; when they finished singing Mr. Hodsoll played the record they had made and we heard them sing again. Then there was a Magic Lantern Show and I think there was a good attendance as the proceeds were 35 cents.
In 1894 the roof was painted by M. W. Lansing; cost of labor $4.20. In 1899 the Hall was painted, cost of Labor and Paint $30.00. In 1898 1/2 cord of wood from Mr. Fairweather cost $1.82.
Then there were the plays that the younger people and some of the older ones used to give in the Hall. I remember well one of them. "Broken Fetters", there was Standing Room Only that night Another "Under A Cloud", another "That Rascal, Pat" and several others. There are references to debates that were held by the P. of I. which might be a good thing for the Farmers' Club now.
The P. of I. prospered for some time as long as the members thought they would profit financially, when the profits were not as large as expected they began to fall by the wayside, and the P. of I. became sick unto death, and of that sickness The Farmers' Club was born. The last meeting of the P. of I. was held March 24, 1903 and at this meeting the following was adopted: Motion made and seconded That the Trustees be authorized to sell the property of the Patrons of Industry of Harmony Association No.53, to a legally incorporated Farmers' Club, who shall maintain it as a public hall and let the Christian Endeavor Society have the use of said hall free of charge.
And thus was the curtain rung down on the final act of the Harmony Association, Patrons of Industry.

The following signed the Charter of the Harmony Farmers' Club: J. Irving Parent Frank M. Holbrook* Wm. E. Blunck M.W. Lansing Ransom J. South* James L Parent Fred H. Tibbetts M. T .Holbrook Wm. E. Jenne John P. Smith John D. Havercamp* Wm. H. South* George Parent Geo. W. DeRidder* Henry R. Holbrook* J.H. Robinson* W.L Armer James Bliss Frank L Smith J. Frank DeRidder* Wm. H. Birch Chester DeRidder* James R. South* J.S. DeRidder David Fairweather George Worden J .S. Parent* 27 signed and *11 are living now. The first meeting of the Harmony Farmer's Club was held May 11, 1903 when the following officers were elected: President: Frank L. Smith Vice Pres. William E. Blunck Sec.-Treas. Geo. W. DeRidder 1903-1914 Trustees: Frank M. Holbrook Fred H. Tibbetts J. Frank DeRidder

The first Farmers' Fair was held Dec. 8, 1905.
In 1907 the By-Laws were amended to read "6 Black Balls shall reject a candidate." and as far as I know that has not been changed since. Before this a two-thirds vote was necessary to elect.
And I want to call to your attention that to amend the By- Laws it reads: "These By-Laws may be amended at any regular meeting if notice is given in writing at a previous regular meeting, by a two-thirds vote of all members present and voting." As far as I know this has not been changed.
On Jan 10, 1913 the proposed Farm Bureau question was brought up and cussed and discussed by several members, some in favor and some opposed.
Great changes have taken place in these 50 odd years and as I look over the crowd here tonight I see only a few that were here at the beginning, the great majority have passed over the Great Divide. To the young people we pass the task that lies ahead, Stand by your Farmers' Club, your Church, your Grange, your Community. Try and make it a better place to live in. Let us all try and do what we can to help in these perilous times. Help the Red Cross, Buy War Bonds, those that are able give a little blood and in any other way that we can help our Country and our boys. Let us try and make this a better country to live in, so that when the Boys come home (some will not come back) those that do come back will find this is a mighty good place to live in.
George W. DeRidder, 1875-1955, a farmer who in his retirement pursued his hobby of local history wrote this and the following article. The account of Harmony Corners' school comes not only from the authentic source of school records, but from Mr. DeRidder's memories of his own boyhood.

Clerk's Record Book
of
Historic 137 Year-Old Parent School
Stirs Memories of Pioneer Days
by George W. DeRidder, 1951
Ballston Spa- "The Parent School House is to close."
It is with a touch of sadness that we read those lines. Quite a few years ago it was the first school the writer attended. When we turn back the pages of memory, it does not seem so long ago, but when we recall the names of schoolmates of that time, most of them have died.
From Peaceable Street there went out two ministers, a doctor, a lawyer, who became a judge of the Supreme Court, several soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary War, some in the Civil War, World War I and World War II, and several school teachers and any number of others in many walks of life.
1814 to 1914- We have seen the School District Clerk's record book from 1814 to 1914 and we find the following: School Dist.#6 Town of Charlton, is at Harmony Corners, Peaceable Street. This was known as the Parent School House for more than 100 years, so called because the land on which the school house was built was purchased from James Parent, many years ago, the Parents being one of the first families to settle in this community. There were three families by that name very near the schoolhouse. No one seems to know where the name Peaceable Street came from, very likely from the peaceable neighbors that lived on the street.
Harmony Association No.53, Patrons of Industry, a farmer organization, built the Hall in 1892, and it was called Harmony Hall. Peaceable Street and Harmony, a mighty good neighborhood in which to live.
The first records obtainable of the District are in 1814, when the sum of $15.59 was received from the Commissioner of Common Schools.
At the school meeting held March 20, 1815, for the purpose of securing a site to build a new school house, James Parent offered to lease a site near the old school house. (This was 50 years before another school house was built and a site was bought of another James Parent).
The new school house was 22 feet long and 20 feet wide, posts 8 1/2 feet. The house to stand north and south with 4 feet taken off for a hall. There to be two 15 light windows in the west side, two in the east, one in the north and one 6 light window in the south to light the hall. The floor to be double inch boards, the house to be lathed and plastered with good lime mortar, sides and overhead, and the sides up as high as the windows to be sealed boards, and a good chimney of brick to receive the stovepipe. The building of the above described school house was sold to James Parent for the sum of $110.50.
1815 - The number of children taught was 59.
1816 - In taking the census of the inhabitants present, it was agreed that each employer should furnish one-half cord of dry hemlock wood or bark for each scholar, cut to fit for the stove.
1817 - Nancy Angle began school Aug. 11, 1817, at the rate of 10 shillings per week and board herself.
1818 - Hired Richard Chambers to teach a common school, reading, writing and arithmetic for one month or longer and board himself, at $10 per month.
Teacher's Pay $7.50 Month.
1820 - School meeting organized by electing Capt. Kenneth Gordon, moderator, and Capt. Amos Sherwood, clerk. (These two were captains in the Revolutionary War and at this time were neighbors on Peaceable St. Captain Gordon lived on the farm later owned by John S. DeRidder. Captain Sherwood lived south of Captain Gordon, the next place below the farm, later owned by Henry R. Holbrook.) Resolved, that William Platt is to teach school for four months at $7.50 per month.
1821 - Resolved that James Parent is to find a scholar to build a fire for four months and to have his schooling free. William Platt to teach for three months at $6.50 a month and he is to find his board, washing, mending and lodging. (At $6.50 a month there would likely be considerable mending.)
1824 - At school meeting, agreed that money be raised by tax to purchase wood for one year. William Cavert agreed to furnish the wood for $5.12. (This is the first record of buying wood for the school. The next year, and for the next eight years, the wood was furnished by the scholars, when it was voted again for the district to furnish the wood.)
Repair Taxes
1838 - We find the following on the clerk's record: "Resolved that a tax of $8.40 be raised for repairs to the school house and buildings. The building to be 6 feet square, to be built of good hemlock boards, seat of basswood boards and planed, the roof to be of boards battened. A cellar under the whole building five feet deep to be stoned with good stones. The whole to be done in a workmanlike manner." Charles Hayes agreed to do the same for $6.97. Resolved that the yard be graded by a "Bee".
1839- Sixty scholars taught.
1842- Resolved that there be a tax of $3.00 levied in the District for the purpose of repairing the school house.
1846 - Money raised by tax for a blackboard.
1850 - Number of volumes in library, 154. Resolved that $23.00 be raised by tax for teacher's wages. 15 Ayes, 9 Noes. (This is the first record of money being voted for teacher's wages. The parents of each scholar had to pay for each child sent to school according to the clerk's book. This was the only money raised by tax for teacher's wages until 1887 when they were raised by tax from then on.)
1862 - Resolved that a ballot be taken as to a new school house. Decided in the negative.
1865 - Resolved that the sum of $500 be raised by tax for a new school house. Ayes 17, Noes 1. Resolved that $20 be paid to James Parent for one eighth acre of land for a site for a schoolhouse. Resolved the trustee sell the old school house to the highest bidder and settle all bills against the district.
1869 - Resolved that there be but one trustee after the terms of the present three expire. (There were three trustees from 1814 until this time.)
1878 - Resolved that the schoolroom be sealed with boards over paper 3 feet higher than the present sealing, and new wall of plaster put on the balance of the room.
1887 - Resolved that we raise by tax $120 for teacher's wages.
(The only other time in the record before this of raising money by tax for teacher's wages was in 1850.)
Seats and Desks
1894 - John S. DeRidder elected trustee. Voted to raise $300 by tax to repair the school house. (This was when the patented seats and desk were put in.) The belfry was built and the Christian Endeavor Society bought the bell through the efforts of the late Dr .Parent, ably assisted by all the others in the neighborhood. The school district contributed nothing toward the purchase of the bell.
The Christian Endeavor Society and the Sunday School met for a long time in the school house and no taxpayer ever suggested that they should pay for the use of the school. As one of the older inhabitants said, they made it a better neighborhood to live in. This is Peaceable Street and Harmony Corners.
1914- The last record of the school meeting that we have was 1914, 100 years after the first meeting.
The Parent School House at Peaceable Street is closed after 137 years. It has served its usefulness. The Old must make room for the new, which is the rule in this world.
The writer has pleasant memories of going to the Parent School and will always recall in loving remembrance some of the teachers, especially Mattie B. Carman of Ballston Spa. She was one of God's noblest women.
Harmony School - 1915

History of Harmony Hall
by Alice Pashley - written in 1985

During the years between the end of this History and sometime in the mid-sixties the Hall was used for all Community events by the Home Bureau, 4-H Clubs and the Harmony Fire Department.
By this time the American rural life style had changed considerably. We became aware that the State did not look too kindly upon these old buildings. Sanitary codes were starting to be put into use and then too, people dressed differently and the old wood stove just didn't do the heating job any longer.
The Harmony Fire Company had built an addition to their one truck building and it seemed to be easier to equip that, than to modernize the Hall. Thus the Fire Company took over the Community activities from the Farmers' Club.
Not being used or needed, the Hall stood idle and the inevitable happened. The Hall was filled with unwanted junk that collected so fast no one wanted to even sort it out. They just pitched in more junk.
When the Farmers' Club deeded the Hall to the Community, they stipulated that the Board of Fire Commissioners were to maintain the building. With the new addition to the fire house there really was no need for the Hall and this precious building just stood idle and neglected.
In 1976 three ladies, all charter members of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Harmony Fire Department, were looking for a place to encourage the young people to use for local entertainment. They knew how much the doings at the Hall had meant to their families. However, they were getting nowhere, until they peeked in the back door of Harmony Hall. Now, these three ladies remember when Harmony Hall was THE PLACE to go in Harmony Corners. One look inside that building, and whether it was shock, indignation, or maybe just getting mad that the Hall should be so deserted, the old, spirit of get up and go surely did come out. We don't think they even stopped to ask permission. They just rolled up their sleeves and dug in. Even after four pickup loads to the dump, much sweeping, mopping and Lysol spraying, the building was still a sad looking specimen of the once lovely Harmony Hall.
However, that touch of TLC (tender loving care) revived lots of happy memories for many Harmony and Charlton folks. Our three ladies got more and more help. Then the Harmony Community Center was organized and had its first meeting August 30, 1976 and elected the following officers: President, Alice Pashley; Vice President, Walter Armer; Secretary, Alice Clements; Treasurer, Kenneth Clayton; lst Trustee, Frances Gannon; 2nd Trustee, Harry Wood; 3rd Trustee, Joanne Clayton.
A discussion arose as to the purpose of the Center and all agreed that "the purpose is to provide a Community Center for the welfare of the surrounding area and to preserve, maintain and modernize so as to preserve the historical value of the building and property."
To Mr. Kenneth Clayton and his two sons, David and Wayne, we owe a debt of gratitude for replacing the sill and strengthening the front wall. The leak by the front door disappeared when this work was done. Their voluntary efforts are certainly appreciated for without them we may have had to give up our cause.
Thru the support of our good friends from all around us the Harmony Community Center was able to put heat, water and two modern rest rooms in the Hall.
Curt Hackett earned his Eagle Scout Badge by leading the teenagers in painting the outside of the Hall. The Board of Fire Commissioners had the roof painted and the Firemen sanded and varnished the floor. Many people donated to, and bought from, our sales, etc. We would like to go on into more detail but--but—there always seems to be a "but". Legal entanglements with insurance etc. kept blocking our way so the Harmony Community Center gave the remaining work over to the Ladies' Auxiliary of the Harmony Fire Department. And that is how it stands today (1985). The Firemen and the Auxiliary working together to keep the Hall in use.
The Harmony firemen are working to build a much needed new and larger firehouse. Until that is accomplished, the Hall will still be needed. Looking to the future we feel the Hall is so much a part of Harmony Corners it should not be allowed to go unused again. How many small crossroads of America have such a building left?
Taylor Hall in the Village of Charlton and now the School House on Maple Avenue have been beautifully preserved. Why not add Harmony Hall to our Town's Credit? Between now and when the firehouse is built we do have time for the proper paperwork to insure the saving of this Historical Building.
We hope everyone in the Town of Charlton, the Fire Departments, and all our good friends will agree with us, and we assure you it won't be long before we'll be announcing how you can once again support us and use Harmony Hall as before.

The Three Brave Souls
Summary of 1976
by Alice Pashley - written in 1991
After that cold cold weather of 1975 it seems good to think about the Community Center again. No, we did not forget all about it. We were so grateful to have the heat fully installed it seemed just too bad not to be able to use the Hall. By next year we hope to have plans for some proper insulation that will conserve the heating bill. It is, however just wonderful to report that thanks to our very capable Mr. Ken Clayton and Mr. Bruce Gardner our furnace is in working order.
Please humor us if we sound a little too loud about our accomplishments but these achievements for the 1st Harmony Community Center at Harmony Hall have been fantastic. The folks that supported us cannot be thanked enough, for of course, without them our efforts would have been in vain. And thank them we most certainly do. We also want to share with them the fruits of our labors up to this point In May, June and July, 1974, we talked a lot, we knew we needed a building and we wished one would appear. We needed a Samantha, but twitching our noses didn't seem to work.
In August we met with the building committee of the Fire Dept to see if it were possible to combine some of our ideas with their needs for more room at the firehouse. Results were disappointing, our aims, purposes, thoughts in general were on different tracks. Ho Hum, more talking, finally an idea! "Let's peek in the back door of the Hall and see if we can get any inspirations".
Here is the story of 3 desperate but brave souls - Alice, Frances and Alice. We hope you enjoy it for it is just as it happened and we know our own Samantha must have had something to do with it. Brave, we were that day, make no mistake about it, we had to be brave because we were getting very desperate. The mess (that's a polite word for what we saw) not only would have, but already had, scared many brave and hopeful souls who had a great love for the Hall and the many memories attached to it.
We picked our way, stumbling or jumping over boxes, barrels, scrap iron, discarded hose, old signs, parts of cars, junk hiding past treasures and dirt and dust from 20 years of disuse.
After teetering and tottering (and a little giggling) we gathered in a huddle and asked each other, can this be done? What are the risks?
One brave soul came up with "It really is only dirt and trash, and that we can clean up". Another brave soul said "Yup, but look, the roof leaks in the front corner by the chimney". Yeah, but we could leave that corner until the last and maybe get it fixed, it is the only place it does leak. The third brave soul asked: "What have we got to lose if we do dig in?"
Ah Ha! 3 brave souls (who knew all the time they would) said "We only have our time to lose, (some aching muscles, split fingernails and of course, if it doesn't work out, many I told you soes and much unnecessary laughter.) Let's take a crack at it."
Bright and early the next day the 3 brave souls appeared with brooms, dusters and trash bags. The back door was the only place to start and so with dogged determination, decisions were made as one after another piece went into the good pile, the bad pile or the "Better not touch pile", and then there was "Oh, remember this thing?" Then came problems, lots of problems, trash bags were piling up, high, several pieces of real heavy stuff needed moving, somewhere, but where?
After several hours the Hall looked quite different. There were pathways where you could walk from the back to the front. Piles, yes, but tomorrow was another day, and they decided that with a shower and good night's rest maybe the day's work wouldn't look quite so useless. So off they went, still brave, cautiously talking themselves into believing that it can be done, but the dust and dirt had, almost, scared even them. That night it did seem as though there was no hope of ever resurrecting the dear old Hall.
However the shower and rest did wonders, and next morning the 3 brave souls showed up again ready and willing to tackle it and more. This time they brought a pickup truck (Vern's) that they loaded to capacity and drove up to the dump. Arriving back at the Hall, they were quite positive that the very walls were talking to them and giving them much-needed encouragement. There was a lot of room to walk around things now, but those decisions were constantly there and the fear of throwing something out that they shouldn't. However, dear old Vernon Pashley came to their rescue and walked around the piles telling them that this goes here and that goes there, and this is good and that is no good. Whew! What a relief and what a difference!
Now nothing could stop us. We had it under control at last A couple of days and those miserable piles melted into only a few pieces here and there. The windows were washed and the curtains washed and re-hung. The floor had been mopped several times but didn't really look any better. By now we had made several more trips to the dump. Collected everything we could lift or slide on a large shovel that we found there, into the back kitchen.
We had the electricity connected and found that we still had one light that actually lit. However, the other four lights are a long way up and again dear old Vern came to the rescue, with the help of the very high ladder he changed the bulbs and again all was well.
Now was time to take stock and how pleased we were. We had several neighbors peek in to look at what was happening, we had a very delightful write-up in the Saratogian paper, about how we hoped to restore the Hall. All in all things weren't too bad. However, nothing happens without some kind of an organization to direct it.
Our visitors included Mr. Harry Wood of Peaceable Street who had expressed an interest in the Hall for several years and Mr. Walter Armer who was contacted about the Hall when we first decided to do anything. As the Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners he took it to the Board and had them give us permission to do this cleanup job. He himself was delighted because he had many fond memories of good times at Harmony Hall. With such encouragement we asked another of our visitors if he would be willing to serve on a Board of Trustees of a Community Center. Mr. Kenneth Clayton of Sweetman Road not only said yes to being a Trustee, but agreed to take on the job of restoring the building. The first thing he discovered was that the building had bowed in front and needed jacking back. He and his sons did the job of straightening out the front wall which also solved our leaky roof. It hasn't leaked at all since that was done.
Here ends the story of the first Harmony Community Center. But not the demise of Harmony Hall. The Firemen again took over the Hall and continued to use it until their new firehouse was finished. (then everything in the Hall went over to the new firehouse) Now we are very proud of our firemen and their accomplishment, but here we are adrift again.
Birth of 2nd Harmony Community Center
Once again starting from scratch. A new Committee has been formed and a lawyer engaged to guide us thru the legal entanglements. We are now a membership corporation legally incorporated as a not-for-profit organization. We gratefully invite you to join our efforts to keep the Hall busy. Thank you so much for inviting me and I hope you enjoyed my story.

Harmony Corners Fire District
by Vemon Pashley in 1992
The history of the Harmony Corners Fire Department and district it serves is laden with colorful events, notable accomplishments and a unique embodiment that reflects the cooperative efforts of many. With the dedication of our new station and the passing of 60 years since the District's formation, an update of this impressive history seems fitting.
Though many of the experiences have been lost to the pages of time, others have been secured in the writings of the Organization and its members. From those documents these remarks are captured. One segment of this notable history was recorded in 1976 when former Chief Emerson Holbrook, (then age 89), conveyed his recollections to member Vernon Pashley.
According to Mr. Holbrook, some time in 1926, a group of men around Harmony Corners appointed Mr. Holbrook as a committee of one to go to the Charlton Town Board and request permission to form a fire company. Permission was granted and the Board gave them $600 to start. On October 2 of that year, the department was formed with Jas Robinson, George Dagenhart, and Fred Tibbetts becoming the first trustees. The new company held clambakes and dinners to raise money, and bought a 1918 American LaFrance chemical truck which was housed in Mr. Holbrook's barn.
With the passing of time, it became apparent that adequate funding was a problem so area residents petitioned the town board for permission to form a Fire District. Thus, the Harmony Corners Fire District was formed on July 25, 1928. Early meetings were held in Harmony Hall.
Soon after the formation of the District, money was appropriated for the first fire house which was the westerly portion of the old station.
The main firehouse building was built in 1955 by tax money. The two buildings were joined together in 1962 by the firemen, using tax money, firemen's money, and money donated by the Ladies' Auxiliary. Later the kitchen was built in the space between the two buildings. Again, by the firemen using donations from the Firemen and Ladies Auxiliary.
During the early days of the fire company, membership was often a family affair. Two brothers serving with Emerson Holbrook as members is one such example. To date, four generations of Holbrooks have been members of the company, with each filling a role as a Chief Officer.
In 1928, the first Board of Fire Commissioners included Clarence Holbrook, James Robinson, William Crawford, Frank DeRidder, and Walter Armer. Clarence Holbrook served as commissioner for 25 years until his death in 1969, while Walter Armer served continually for 59 years, establishing a record term as the longest serving commissioner in New York State. Walter witnessed many changes during his years on the board, and we are delighted he could see his dream of a new facility come to fruition before his passing in 1987.
In Emerson Holbrook's memory book there were several stories that bear repeating, for our history would not be complete without this folklore.
"Went to a fire at Ed Post's barn on Jockey Street and upon arrival found one of my pullets had ridden all the way on the running board tool box".
"Another time we went to a fire at Carpenter's Mansion, north of Galway. The fire was about to come under control when the well ran out of water and truck tanks also became exhausted. They were bringing in water in milk cans by truck but couldn't get enough fast enough. The large two-story house was destroyed."
Emerson's description of the first fire truck went as follows. "A man from a fire company in Schenectady, (I think he was an agent for fire equipment), came to our meeting and told us about the used American LaFrance fire truck for sale in Johnstown, Pa. It was a fairly old truck with just a chemical tank and fire extinguishers. The chemical tank built up pressure by tipping the bottle of acid into the water and it built up some pressure (meaning good pressure) to force the fluid from the hose. The truck had no cab, semi-solid tires, no speedometer (but it could really travel), gas lights, right-hand drive with shifting levers on the right side of the body. Also had a bell and hand-operated siren".
"Initially, the truck was garaged in the wagon house of my (Emerson Holbrook) home for two years until the firehouse was built, without a charge to the department. When an electric storm was coming up in the night, I would get up and go out and warm up the truck engine in case lightning should cause a fire".
"The old wall telephone had to be cranked to ring. There were 14 or more subscribers on one line. (The Galway Telephone Co. was owned by Emerson Holbrook's brother-in-law, Frank L Smith.) During storms when subscribers heard the Chiefs phone ring 2 1ong and 3 short ones, they'd rush to their phones to find out where the fire was and spread the word. Also, the District #6 school bell was rung and certain rings were for the direction in which the fire was located".
In 1931, the District purchased a new Chevrolet chassis and mounted on it the chemical tanks from the 1918 LaFrance. In 1938, they purchased a used front-mount pump, a booster tank, and some hose, and this was the birth of Harmony's first pumping engine. In 1953, they purchased a 1948 GLF tanker and equipped it with a portable pump, and thus placed in service Harmony's first tanker.
In 1956, another GLF was similarly equipped and placed on line. In 1958, a 1940 500-gal-per-min pumper was purchased from the GE Company. The old '31 Chevy was sold. Then the Company had two tankers and one Pumper for fire protection.
In 1959, the firemen bought a 1929 Buffalo fire truck from the Alplaus Fire Company, to be used for firematic competition only. The firemen overhauled the engine and pump of the 3O-year old truck and with much practice, team spirit, and great pride of accomplishment, entered the firematic racing scene. The truck and men proved successful in their competition efforts. Between 1961 and 1976, the name of Harmony Corners Fire Department became well known to other N.Y.S. Departments while winning over 200 trophies. In 1975, the Department won the much coveted lst place championship of the Central New York State Firematic Drill Team Association.
From 1962 until 1986, the Buffalo was used in full-time service. Recently, this piece was presented to the Department by the District for use as a parade vehicle. It has been completely restored and will be displayed in Charlton’s Founder's Day Bi-Centennial Parade.
In 1976 Vern Pashley penned the Department's 50th Anniversary history while returning from Logansport, Indiana with ETA331, the new tanker-pumper which replaced the 1946 Buffalo pumper.
This new truck was the first fire engine completely built in an apparatus factory especially for the Harmony Corner's Fire Department.
Back in June of 1953, a group of women interested in aiding the Fire Department formed a Ladies' Auxiliary. These ladies, by means of paper drives, suppers, and various other fund-raising activities, collected over $7000, which they used to purchase equipment and items for the Fire Department. Some of these items include the well at the firehouse, the drafting pond in back of the station, coats, boots, helmets, extra hose, a portable pump, and breathing masks. They furnished the kitchen and helped buy the two GLF tankers.
During the 1960's the Firemen, Auxiliary, and Junior Auxiliary appeared at many parades and competitive events. As time went by, the focus of departmental activities changed and fewer outside events were attended.
During the late 1970's and early 1980's, it became apparent that a larger, more efficient facility was badly needed. The utility, heating, insurance and maintenance costs of the station were steadily increasing. With each passing year, something was wearing out or the roof needed patching. It was no longer cost-effective or practical to operate out of the building. The services needed by our citizens necessitated a change. The community had grown, the apparatus had grown larger, the calls were more frequent and the equipment required improved housing.
Several committees were formed to investigate other facilities and various means of financing a new building. Many trips were made to area fire stations to accumulate ideas, compare features and develop cost data. Hours of agonizing study, indepth planning and soul searching would go by before the final decision would be made.
During the early 1980's, the department's emergency calls indicated the need for extrication and rescue equipment. Numerous accidents on N. Y. Route 67 and calls for emergency medical assistance accounted for a substantial number of our alarms. By working three years at the Saratoga County Fair, conducting annual fund drives, and holding Spring and Fall barbecues (which have become very famous), monies were raised for the needed tools and a quick response rescue vehicle to transport equipment. In 1984, the Department purchased such a vehicle and our current 334 Rescue Van was put into service. Of course, this added equipment made the over-crowded conditions even less tolerable.
In 1987, we were given a badly-needed backup pumper by the Stanford Heights Fire District. This, plus the new rescue truck made a new building an urgent necessity.
We had to revert back to housing trucks in two accommodating farmers' barns.
In 1985, we got word from Assemblyman Robert DAndrea that the District was eligible for a $50,000 grant from New York State. This offer of funds coupled with the donations from H. Wood, the Smith family, the Fire Department and others finally made the construction of a new station possible. In 1986, the Board of Fire Commissioners was able to hire an architect and an attorney so that the plans could be started and a Bond issue held. The Bond issue for $250,000 was passed by the voters. Later, however, it was found that this amount was not going to cover costs. Certain portions of the plans were eliminated and the firemen agreed to do the painting of the inside of the building themselves to save $5000. Another Bond issue was held for $35,000 more. Thanks to the understanding and support of our District citizens, this request also passed. The plans were finalized and work started in August 1987. We cannot over emphasize that the most important part of this building effort has been the financial assistance provided by our citizens, members, and other interested parties. The David Smith Memorial Fund has contributed in excess of $5000 toward this building project. Members and friends have given generously of their time and talents in painting and preparation of the interior building. As members, we take pride in this our community and you, the citizens we serve.
In 1976, we celebrated our 50th Anniversary as a Department and this year of 1988, we celebrate our 60th Anniversary as a Fire District. With the passing of time comes pleasant memories but also we must face sad partings. Such has been the case during this past year. Walter Armer, who served as commissioner from the beginning of the District in 1928, lost his wife and shortly after, Walter himself, passed away. We also lost a former Chief, Norman West. As if this were not enough, Barbara Holbrook, wife of 50 year active member Frank Holbrook and mother of James Holbrook, was taken from among us.
In April, during our annual Fire Department Installation Dinner, Chief Richards reported that the Harmony Corners Fire Department had answered 38 calls for the year involving a total of 538.2 man hours. The property at risk during these calls totaled $445,000 and property saved was estimated at $437,370. During the year, company members attended 29 drills for a total of 923 man hours or 36.5 hours per member. Computing total hours at alarms, drills, work projects, meeting, maintenance checks and other special events, company members gave a total of 1957 hours of volunteer service to the district. If these hours had been performed by paid personnel, they would have resulted in a cost of $27,398. We are glad to report that this is money annually saved by the District and the taxpayers of the Towns of Charlton, Galway, and Milton.
Only God knows what the future has in store, but one thing is for sure - as long as fire and other emergencies threaten our citizens, the District will continue to be needed. We remain equally confident that as long as Harmony's residents care about the welfare of their neighbors, the district will be served by a strong volunteer force.
Chiefs Award
Presented to those firefighters who have distinguished themselves during emergency situations or through exceptional commitment to service.

1976 Tom Palmateer, Clifford Grupe 1977 Pete Hulett, Brian Ivers, Ted Alderson 1983 Frank Dorvee 1984 Vern Pashley 1985 Fred Richards 1986 Ron Pushee 1987 Kevin Grupe 1988 Russ Palmateer

Harmony Corners Fire Department Chiefs

1926-1928 J. Frank DeRidder 1962-1965 Allen T. Claypool 1928-1931 William Crawford 1965-1969 Norman West 1931-1933 Emerson Holbrook 1969-1972 Donald Grupe 1933-1943 Clarence Holbrook 1972-1976 Richard Simkins 1943-1946 Lester Denison 1976-1978 Robert Cromie 1946-1953 Frank Holbrook 1978-1982 William Reynolds 1953-1954 Gordon Matthews 1982-1987 Donald Grupe 1954-1955 Marty Kotiranta 1987-1989 Frederick Richards 1955-1957 Floyd Palmateer 1989- Donald Grupe 1957-1962 Vernon Pashley

Harmony Corners Fire Department

Membership Roster
1992

Donald Grupe, Chief
Clifford Grupe, lst Asst. Chief
Richard W. Smith, 2nd Asst. Chief
Robert Pashley, Captain
Andre LaPointe, lst Lieutenant

Paul Rulison, President
Robert J. Stephenson, Vice President
Thomas Mills, Treasurer/2nd Lieutenant
Ronald Pushee, Secretary
Garry Waterman, Auditor
William Smith Sr., Auditor
Fred Richards, Chaplain

Frank Holbrook, Life Member
Frederick G. Almy
Mark A. Chotkowski
Kevin Clements
Robert Cromie
Frank Dorvee
Patrick J. Fish
Richard Gipp
Kevin Grupe
James C. Holbrook
James P. Holbrook
Scott Holbrook
Clarence Linder
Albert E. Luther
Jay Mills
Thomas Palmateer
Vernon Pashley
Alfred Peters
Dan Rancour
Jonathan Riedinger
William R. Smith Jr.

Members of Ladies' Auxiliary
(listed in the order that they joined)

Charter Members Irene South Irene Jacobs, PP Helen Cudo Beatrice Fiedler Marion Dines Betty Elmstrom Myrtle South, PP Zula Finch Hazel Brown Mrs. I. Montgomery Helen Crawford Loretta Armitage May Hoyle Edith Brown Shirley Palmateer Aili Kitiranta, PP Sadie Gilchrist Minnie Dorvee Gladys Denison Joanne Hulford Nellie Cornell, PP Helen Riddervold Elizabeth Hizer Alice Pashley, PP Beth Trumbull Mrs.Casper Smith Alice Matthews, PP Helen Denison Frances Tersla Gannon, PP Merriam McChesney Emily Smith 1954 Mrs. I. Austro Barbara Holbrook Margaret McPike Joyce Vedder Fern Cook Laurita Berg Ann Broughton Audrey Zullo Peggy Palmateer Patricia Lane Jeanette Hawkes Patricia McPherson Audrey Foody, PP Audrey Hines, PP Emily Spear Florence Kruse Jean Claypool Diane Curtis Alice Clements Betty Denison Dorothy Manell Sandra McDonald Dorothy Tersla Nina Carroll Blanch Wright, PP Sadie Wodtke JoAnn Jacobs Anna Ziganto Betty Welch Nona Morrow Jane West Jane Pashley Edith Bradt Vivien Brunewald Audrey Gardiner, PP Virginia Kimball, PP Ruth Assman Harmony Junior Auxiliary Jane Claypool Herbert Vedder Patricia Wright Janet West Theadora (Teddie) Gabri Linda Gardiner Karen Kotiranta Joseph Clark David South Karen Clark Claudia South PP -Past President

The Central New York State Firematic Drill Team Association
Has a New Champion - 1975
by Richard Lanne, Official Announcer
It was a brisk fall day for a Sunday in September. The course was dry and ready for another championship meet of the Central New York State Firematic Drill Team Association. By high noon captains from twelve different teams assembled for what is considered one of the strongest meets any team can compete in. "The Milton Eagles Second Annual Competition".
The Dressing Contest went as expected. Fuller Road first place over Harmony third, knocking down two points from the "Hayshakers" six point lead. New England dry hose race was no barrier either as Trophys matched again Fuller first, Harmony third.
Two more points down, two to go, three for the Championship. The atmosphere began to show tension. Even the new green-horn spectators shivered over the excitement of something new. If the well known racing team from Albany County could pull it off, it would be a four in a row Championship. If not, Saratoga County would take its first.
The commotion of the day stopped when number one truck pulled to the start line for the motor hose draft. It was Harmony's twenty nine Buffalo. You could hear a pin drop. On the signal the Reo powered rig hit the tank in 4.86 seconds, the target tripped in 14.89 for their best time ever in a non-handicap DRAFT EVENT. The cheers came loud from the supporters for Harmony but it wasn't over yet. Boght's THIRTY SIX Indiana ran next. It was a near 16.86 seconds. Who expected a centrifugal pump to compare with a rotary but hopes were high from all of the Albany County spectators.
With only two drill teams yet to run capable of a better time the "Champs" for 1974 (Fuller Road) were next. Yes! The nine thousand pound Ford powered "Chariot" was ready. Again on the judges signal it thundered one hundred and eighty feet to the tank in 4.10 seconds! as it has for so many times to take a winning time of 14.30 seconds for the event, but not the championship. They were still one point away from what could be the first tie in the Association's History. The Milton Eagles would have to make the last run of the day in 14.30 to 14.89 seconds. Could it be done?
Several hundred faces looked Eastward to see the Forty one Ford and its team get ready. This team holds the record of 11.90 seconds. What happened next nobody expected. The 327 Chevy powered rotary hit the tank in just under 4.00 seconds but missed the shift into pump. It was all over. Our new and ever deserving Champions for 1975 going into America's Bicentennial Year 1976 "The Hayshakers from Harmony Corners, Ballston Spa.".
Saratoga County you have a Champion!

The Harmony Hall 4- H Club
Second in the County
by Dorothy Arnold Garrison
In March 1930, the Harmony Hall Farmer's Club became interested in boys & girls 4-H work, as conducted by the Extension Service at the college of Agriculture, in conjunction with Farm and Home Bureau work, and discussed the problem of organizing clubs in the community.
In May of 1930, Eva Armer organized a girls home-making club and James Arnold organized a calf club for the boys. These two groups turned into the 2nd 4-H Club in Saratoga County. In 1929, the first 4-H in Saratoga County was organized in Schuylerville and named Battlefield Sheep Breeders. Harold B. Little the Saratoga County Agricultural Agent of that period led the movement.
The boys club adopted the name of Harmony Corner's 4-H Agricultural Club. The first officers elected were Harold Smith, President; Howard Plummer, Vice President and Ella Lane, Secretary.
The club met the second Friday evening each month at Harmony Farmer's Club Hall. Some raised calves, some poultry, others potatoes, and Helen Cutbush raised sheep.
The girls club adopted the name of Harmony Busy Bees and officers for the first club were Dorothy Arnold, President; Dorothy Murtlow, Vice President; Evelyn South, Secretary; Marion Crawford, Treasurer; Virginia Murtlow, song leader; Alma South, cheerleader; and Marion Crawford, news reporter.
One of the requirements of the 4-H members was that they exhibit their project work sometime during the year. The Saratoga County Fair Directors had a special committee to work out a plan which would enable every boy and girl enrolled in 4- H work to exhibit and compete for premiums.
The Board of Directors at the fair said it was one of the best displays of their work which they had seen at any fair in the east at that time, a total of 44 boys and girls showed in this department for the first time.
At the end of the year the boys and girls club met at Harmony Hall for their Achievement Day program with their friends and parents. Achievement Day was held for the purpose of celebrating the completion of the year's work and awarding the 4-H Club pins, furnished by the New York State Bankers Association.
The 4-H symbol - the green 4 leaf clover on a white field representing the slogans, our 4-H Club Pledge.
My Head to clearer thinking, my Heart to greater loyalty
My hands to larger service, and my Health to better living for my club, my community and my country.

There were 47 charter members. In December 1962 at an anniversary party celebrating the charter members, Eva Armer was cited for 25 years of 4-H leadership, James Arnold for 26 years of leadership. The same year he was chosen as one of the four Master Farmers in New York State. John Lane was also chosen as a 4-H Club leader of 25 years.
Charter Members of Harmony 4- H - May 1930

Boys Raymond Englebart Joseph Bagdon Russell G. Arnold Robert Armer Donald Crawford Clarence Armer Gordon Crawford Lawrence Englebart Claude Plummer William Cutbush Howard Plummer Everett Englebart Vincent Plummer Gilbert Smith Orlin Smith Raymond Plummer Everett Carr Albert Plummer George Wiswa11 Crawford DeRidder Harold Smith Lester South Robert Bunyan Franklyn DeRidder Earl Garrison Paul Voehringer Lewis Cutbush Girls Isabell Holbrook Amy Robinson Dorothy Conde Evelyn South Marion Crawford Margaret Palmatier Alma South Edna Helen Hammond Ellen Willey Helen Wood Marion Holbrook Ruth Palmatier Helen Cutbush Dorothy Arnold Ella Lane Marjorie Murtlow Celia Gray Dorothy Murtlow Virginia Murtlow

PHOTO - Harold B. Little and James Arnold
PHOTO - Harmony 4-H Club -1930

Harmony Home Bureau
by Dot Mitchell
In 1920 a group of local women got together to organize a Home Bureau unit called the Harmony Home Bureau. The group elected officers and leaders to plan and carry out a homemaking program for women in their community.
Project leaders were selected to attend training sessions at the county level after which they returned to their home unit to teach the skills learned. The members received guidance in nutrition, family, life, clothing, home furnishing, civics and other areas of interest.
The following women signed the charter: (Mrs. Fred H.) Mame Tibbetts, (Mrs. Clarence) Jennie Robinson, Miss Mary Parent, (Mrs. Perry) Rose Mead, (Mrs. Henry) Emily Holbrook, (Mrs. Frank) Julia Holbrook, Mrs. Mary Hedden, (Mrs. George) Anna Dennison, and (Mrs. William) Helen Crawford.
We presume that these ladies met in each others' homes for the first few years, then as the record shows they started meeting at Harmony Hall in 1931. (see copy of trustees minutes)
In glancing through some of the old records, it is noted that members came from all sections of Charlton and neighboring communities.

Chairmen 1920-21-Mrs. Frank Holbrook 1946-48-Mrs. A H. Schwenker 1923-24-Janet Watkins 1948-49-Mrs. Fred J. Baker 1924-27-Mrs. Emerson Holbrook 1949-50-Mrs. William A. Speer 1927-29-Mrs. C. J. Robinson 1950-51-Mrs. Richard Manell 1929-30-Mrs. Lawrence Willey 1951-52-Mrs. Craig Trumbull 193O-31-Mrs. C. J. Robinson 1952-53-Mrs. James Drake 1931-32-Mrs. Harry Finch 1953-54-Mrs. Harry Hemingway 1932-33-Mrs. Dagenhart 1954-56-Mrs. Winston McChesney 1933-35-Mrs. Homer Hizer 1956-58-Mrs. George Howard 1935-37-Mrs. George Dennison 1958-00-Mrs. Frank Holbrook 1937-39-Mrs. Rey Smith 1939-41-Mrs. W. W. Crawford 1941-43-Mrs. Homer Hizer 1943-45-Mrs. Grenelle Armitage 1945-46-Mrs. William Crawford

The following is a reprint from the Schenectady Gazette - 1960

Harmony Unit Marks 40th Anniversary
Miss Marie Cook, assistant home demonstration agent of Saratoga county, was guest speaker at the 4Oth anniversary dinner of the Harmony HD unit, held Friday night at Harmony Hall. Miss Cook spoke on the history of the HD department in the county and the part the unit had played as one of the oldest, largest and most active groups engaged in home demonstration work.
Mrs. Frank Holbrook II, chairman, named the nine members who signed the charter in 1920. Three are living, Mrs. William Crawford, Mrs. Perry Mead and Mrs. Clarence Robinson. Mrs. Crawford was presented a pin in recognition of her 40 years of membership.
Also recognized were Mrs. Harry Finch, 30-year member; Mrs. Winston McChesney, Mrs. Thomas Male, 20 years; Mrs. Howard Albring, Mrs. Fred Baker, Mrs. Ray Broome, Mrs. Harold Combes, Mrs. Abel Cornell, Mrs. Howard Denison, Mrs. Nick Danopuk, Mrs. Herman Grabo, Mrs. Holbrook, Mrs. Richard Mannel, Mrs. Guy Smith and Mrs. Leland Palmer, 10 to 20 years.
Mrs. Holbrook read a list of past chairmen and it was noted that 40 years ago her husband's grandmother, Mrs. Frank Holbrook Sr., was the first chairman of the unit.
Projects of the year were on display and included housecoats, blouses, hooked rugs, chair caning, and fabric bags. Mrs. Howard Denison was in charge of a candy and cookie booth.
The dinner committee included Mrs. McChesney, Mrs. Palmer, Mrs. Kenneth Sherman, Mrs. Grabo and Mrs. George Hakes; and the program committee, Mrs. Douglas Mitchell, Mrs. Courtney Wright, Mrs. Cornell and Mrs. James Gardiner.
The dinner meeting was attended by fifty-four.

Reorganization of Harmony Hall to Benefit Community
by Tar Riedinger in 1992
Built in 1892, and dedicated January 27, 1893, Harmony Hall long served the residents of this area. The Hall was, for years, the local meeting place. The Harmony Community Center has been formed in order that the Hall resume that function.
Harmony Community Center, a not-for-profit corporation, will administer this historic building and open the Hall to the youth, the seniors, the families, the organizations, to all citizens of this community. The Hall will be used for meetings, classes, dinners, and socials.
To this end the Hall has annually sponsored, in the spring, a Strawberry Festival and, in the fall, a Pie Festival. We are hoping that our May Concert will become another regular attraction. The Hall is also now used as the permanent home of the New York Chapter "N" Gold Wing Road Riders. The Hall supported the community in 1990 when we conducted "Meadow Muffin Madness". This endeavor raised over $8,000 towards the construction of the playground at Charlton Heights School.
Our projects in 1991 included repair of the roof and necessary carpentry repairs to the body of the building. The building exterior was scraped, primed, and painted. The Board of the Community Center is most grateful to members of the Gold Wing Road Riders who did an excellent job on the renovations. The donation of coachlights at both entrances provided the final touch. Plans for 1992 include painting the roof, repairs to the front porch, and installation of handicap access.
The Center needs your support. Members, helping hands, ideas, all are welcome and essential for future growth. Join, participate, get acquainted with your neighbors. Help the Hall take its rightful place in our community.
Officers and Directors

Tar Riedinger, President Clarence Linder Dot Mitchell, Vice President Tom Mills Lita Eskin, Secretary Alice Pashley Barb Pickney, Treasurer Vern Pashley John Ripley

Harmony Community Center