Throwback FDNY to 1868 when Minthorne Tompkins is the first member of the FDNY to receive a medal for valor; in 1889 Hugh Bonner is made Chief of Department and a medal is named in his honor; and a fire in 1975 causes over 260 firefighters to call in sick the next day!

In this episode of Throwback FDNY… in 1868, Minthorne Tompkins is the first member of the FDNY to receive a medal for valor; then 1889 Hugh Bonner is made Chief of Department and a medal is named in his honor; and a fire in 1975 causes over 260 firefighters to call in sick the next day!

What is Throwback FDNY?

The New York City Fire Museum's Throwback FDNY podcast is here to help present the extraordinary history and unique heritage of the fire department in the five boroughs. Each episode, we’ll turn a spotlight on three specific years and share a story from each that we hope brings the Fire Department’s past to life, a must for FDNY history buffs of all ages! This initiative is brought to you with help from the FDNY and the FDNY Foundation.