Sign on this fire engine reads:
"If one of the basic goals of humanity is to protect the lives of others, then the fire engine is one of our finest inventions."
This is an original and completely unrestored American-LaFrance fire engine specifically ordered for a Ford Model T chassis.
The unit here is a chemical truck wherein carbon dioxide gas was generated in the large copper tank behind the seat. The powder was paced in the tank; water was added and the handle was cranked. Upon achieving the approprioate pressure, the mixture was delivered through various hoses.
The unit here is designated in the American-LaFrance facory record as Unit 5 913 and still bears the original plaque on the side of the body.
This engine was originally delivered to a small community: East Southport, New York. The Department name can still be seen on the hood and sides.
This vehicle remained in a museum in New York until 1992, whereupon a restoration specialist previously employed by the William Harrah Auto Museum in Nevada purchased it.
The unit is complete with all the original lanterns, axes, picks, and ladders. Due to the rarity of this untouched example of an early fire engine, no restoration will be undertaken.
