Button Fire Engine Works

"Foremost among the pioneers in the manufacture of Fire-Engines, stands Mr.
L. Button, for whom was named the famous Button Fire Engine Works at
Waterford, Saratoga Co., New York."

- William T. King, in his 1896 book "History of the American Steam Fire-Engine"

In 1834 a young machinist by the name of Lysander Button purchased the interests in the fire engine shop were he worked.  He soon owned the entire company, which he appropriately named the Button Fire-Engine Works.  Button focused his efforts on producing first-rate products that were sold internationally.  The company was initially located on King's Canal, where they made hand-engines, (or man-powered pumps).  Around 1850 Button moved his business to the foot of Third Street along the fourth Branch of the Mohawk River to make use of steam power to operate the factory. 

When steam engines were introduced into the fire-fighting industry, Button was quick to capitalize and made first rate steam engines.  His men continued to make hand-engines and steam engines until the company was sold in the 1890s.  The business had different trade names throughout its history but their engines were always referred to as a "Button."