OLD FORGE — Old Forge Library and Town of Webb Historical Association are offering a series — Local History and Stories — featuring presentations on a variety of subjects, primarily of historical significance, on Thursdays at 5 p.m. throughout July and August.

On Thursday, Aug. 4, the series will feature author and Town of Webb Historian Peg Masters with a presentation, “Answering the Call: the History of the Rescue Hook and Ladder Company.”

Masters will share a brief history of how firefighters and EMS volunteers have adapted their response to emergencies for more than a century and preserved many cherished landmarks that define the unique character of the community. On May 18, 1907, 21 members of the community gathered at the Masonic Temple in Old Forge to form a Rescue Hook and Ladder Company. Today, residents dial 911 for help during an emergency.

In addition to being the town historian, Masters is also a long-time volunteer for the Old Forge Fire Department and the Old Forge Volunteer Ambulance Corp.  

Other speakers include: 

• Aug. 11 – Sue Kiesel: The Healing Power of Nature Photography
• Aug. 18 — Tom McCabe and Phil Sanzone: Fulton Chain of Lakes Association — preserving and protecting the unique environment of area lakes and the surrounding woodlands, streams and wetlands for more than 50 years.
• Aug. 25 — Charlie Herr:  Raquette Lake Railway — the story of this railroad from its origins as a lumber railroad, a right-of-way obtained through state lands, its building and the railroad stations.