Harry Newell (fireboat)

The Harry Newell is a fireboat that served the City of Boston Fire Department from 1950 to 2000. It was named in honor of Boston Fire Commissioner Harry E. Newell, who served from 1940 to 1950. The vessel was constructed by the John H. Mathis & Company shipyard in Camden, New Jersey.

The Harry Newell was a significant asset to the Boston Fire Department, providing vital fire suppression capabilities in the harbor and waterfront areas. Its powerful pumps and monitors (water cannons) could deliver large volumes of water to combat fires on ships, docks, and waterfront structures. The fireboat also played a role in search and rescue operations and assisted in icebreaking during winter months.

Key characteristics of the Harry Newell included its length (approximately 108 feet), its pumping capacity (several thousand gallons per minute), and its maneuverability within the harbor. The vessel was powered by diesel engines.

Following its retirement from active service in 2000, the Harry Newell was sold. Its current status and location are not widely documented. The vessel represents a historical example of fireboat technology and service within a major port city.