A well-known landmark in downtown Owego will get a facelift with the aid of a local foundation. Time has taken a toll on the Baker Fireman’s Fountain at Courthouse Square. Last restored 17 years ago, the monument needs attention. The Owego Hose Teams received a $20,000 grant last week from the Mildred Faulkner Truman Foundation to restore the fountain. In all, it’s been on duty for over 100 years in downtown Owego. Frank M. Baker donated it to the village and its firefighters in 1914 as a memorial to his son George Baker who was killed in an automobile accident. Patrick Gavin, who is president and captain of Owego Hose Teams said the teams are known for speed and restoring the statute will be a trophy for the teams and the community. The overall estimate for the restoration is $60,000. Make a donation online at the teams website or mail a check to Owego Hose Teams, 461 East Main Street, Owego, with “foundation restoration” on the subject line.
