Classic Fire Truck in WA: 1929 American LaFrance Pumper

1929 American LaFrance motorized pumper truckThe fire department of Kirkland, Washington, received their original 1929 American LaFrance motorized pumper truck around 82 years ago. It has been fully restored and remains in Kirkland today. 

This beautiful truck is kept at the Houghton Fire Station and is displayed every year at the town’s Fourth of July parade and celebration, according to a recent report from the Kirkland Patch.

The article speaks about a time when this truck saw more action that an annual celebration and a photograph that captures the crew of volunteer firefighters:

“All of the men shown here were volunteer firemen, except for possibly one who served as chief, since Kirkland Fire Department records show the first paid fireman in Kirkland was a chief hired in 1928. Despite their volunteer status, however, these guys were real firefighters.”

The story continues:Houghton Fire Station

“Back then, of course, most of the structures in town were built of wood, and most of them had wood-burning stoves. Like today but perhaps even more, the consequences of a fire could be disastrous for a community. Maybe some of those firemen recalled watching across Lake Washington as smoke rose during the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. Kirkland’s first fire brigade formed in 1890.”
 

Read the entire article HERE.


Photo of the Kirkland FD 1929 American LaFrance pumper taken by Greg Johnston as seen at kirkland.patch.com.

Photo from the archives of the Kirkland Heritage Society as seen at kirkland.patch.com.

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