”Old Engine One”, Manhattan's oldest fire engine is a 1947, American LaFrance 700 series model. This fire engine was developed by American LaFrance during the closing years of World War II and represented a radical new style of fire engine with its cab ahead-of-engine design. It was considered one of the finest pieces of fire apparatus available when it was purchased. It used a twelve cylinder engine as opposed to today's six and eight cylinder engines and was equipped with two completely separate ignition systems. The truck seats three in front and two in jump seats located along the sides of the engine compartment. Additional firefighters could ride on the tailboard.

This truck has been a part of the history of the Manhattan Fire Department since it was purchased in 1947. It served the citizens of Manhattan as an active duty pumper until 1985 when it was taken out of service and designated "Old Engine One". Twice this fire engine was designated to be traded in on a new engine, but both times the bids were under the value of the engine and it remained with the department.

In November of 1993, members of the Manhattan Fire Department formed a committee to restore the engine for use as a public education tool and to preserve a piece of Manhattan’s history. Restoration included a complete paint job, new upholstery, engine and brake work and new tires. The hose bed was converted to allow seating so that citizens may experience riding on a fire engine. The Manhattan Sunflower Lion’s Club agreed to sponsor the restoration and the Club established the “Old Engine One” fund at Commerce bank. Along with fire department members, the club held pancake feeds to raise funds to support the restoration efforts. The proceeds of the first pancake feed were matched by a generous donation from the Modern Woodmen of America. The restoration has been accomplished through the effort of members of the department and the work and monetary contributions from businesses and individuals in the community. Special thanks goes to: The Alan Clark Body Shop for helping complete the paint job; to past Manhattan Lions Club member John Roche for his fund raising efforts in selling the “Old Engine 1” model replicas; and Fire Driver (Retired) Guy Lundquist who put in many hours making sure the project was done right.

“Old Engine One” is still “in service” as a fire prevention and public education tool for the Department of Fire Services. “Old Engine One” appears in parades and at fire prevention and public education events in Manhattan. Now more than 50 years old, “Old Engine One” still serves the citizens of Manhattan by helping prevent fires through education.

              

Custom made banks were sold by Lion Club members to raise funds for the Old Engine One fund. Note the bank model available was for a 1948 Model while Old Engine One is a 1947 model.

 

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