Fire House

Manufactured in 1930 for the Army Corps of Engineers, the fire truck was purchased by the City of Tonganoxie in 1951.  The early history of service of this vehicle is still under investigation and cannot be accurately verified at this time.  The fire truck was in service as a main pumper for Tonganoxie's two-vehicle Volunteer Fire Department for almost ten years. In 1960 the City purchased a new vehicle, and this aging piece of equipment was relegated to outside storage at the fire department, and then later to the junk yard.

In 2003 the fire truck was obtained by the Tonganoxie Community Historical Society.  A fire department building was erected at the Site and restoration on the fire truck began in late 2006.

Work thus far has been concentrated on overhaul of the engine.  This overhaul has been successfully accomplished, and the engine started for the first time in more than 40 years.  With success of the engine rebuild, the next step is to bring the body of the vehicle back to life.

Over the course of so many years, many of the original parts and accessories were removed from the truck as it sat decaying in the junk yard.  As the restoration progresses, perhaps some of these "souvenir" items, once a part of this historical vehicle, will be located, and will further our efforts to bring the old fire truck back to its original glory.

Anticipated completion date for the restoration is November 2008.  Once completed, the fire truck will be on permanent display at the Site. It will be used for display at special events, including parades, Tonganoxie Days, the County Fair and like events.