Fire engine saga begins: 1997

Chuck Tidrington, "twin" LaFrance from Mount Vernon

Numerous restoration volunteers

Santa Claus and Loren Knutsen

Restoration volunteers Loren Knutsen and John Gruenewald

Now retired AFD Chief Richard Curtis

It was 25 years ago this week that I published an article detailing the efforts to restore a 1924 American LaFrance fire truck owned by the Anacortes Fire Department. That goal has since been met after many years of commitment and investment by a dedicated team of restoration supporters. In fact, the truck is often featured in local parades as well as AFD open houses. The following is the article from 1997:
One of the star attractions at the 1924 World’s Fair found a home in Anacortes 76 years ago. Now you are invited to assist an enthusiastic group of admirers eager to restore her beauty.
The star in question is an open cab 1924 American LaFrance fire engine, purchased directly from the display floor at the World’s Fair in San Francisco. Her specs include 1,000 gallon water capacity, 6-cylinder motor, triple combination pumping, chemical and hose car.
Because the truck wa on display for the world to see, it boasted special features including ornate gold leafing and trim. Several years ago fireman Chuck Tidrington was inspired to restore the vehicle and today, with the help of a talented team of volunteers, work has begun in earnest with a full restoration goal in the next few years.
Just a couple of weeks ago guests at the Anacortes Fire Department’s annual open house discovered several restored classic fire trucks including the 1921 LaFrance pictured on this issue’s front page. That truck was purchased and restored by a group of Mount Vernon firemen. Open house guests also saw pieces of the 1924 Anacortes LaFrance, currently disassembled for restoration work.
When long-time Anacortes resident and classic car buff Loren Knutsen heard Tidrington was purusing the Anacortes engine restoration project he offered his assistance, including a trip to the mayor’s office to seek “seed money” for the project.
“My thought was, Chuck’s knocking on doors. He’s going to need some help,” said Knutsen. “This fire truck is an asset to the city. It’s a way to preserve history and it’s a great way to get kids interested in the fire department and what they do.”
Tidrington, who discovered the truck in the cinderblock fire hall addition known by firemen as “the museum,” quickly accomplished his initial goal of getting the truck running. It has since attracted admiring eyes in local parades and at the Vintage Car Show held in conjunction with the Anacortes Arts Fesitval.
Even though it was running, however, the fire engine was in dire need of renovation. Over the years rust has done damage to the body. Several coats of paint were applied over the top of the intricate gold leaf detail work. Upholstery was torn, parts and accessories were ravaged by the elements.
“I started talking to people about renovation,” noted Tidrington, “and the responses I got were good.”
Mayor Dean Maxwell and the City Council agreed to provide $5,000 seed money to get the project rolling. Skilled restoration volunteers lined up, including Knutsen, Bill Blix, John Greenwald, Jack Richardson, Clay Leming and Bill Cox.
Local businesses offering materials, equipment and expertise to date include Stewart’s Auto Body, Piston Service, Anacortes Auto and Grace Towing (to pull the engine from the chassis and put it back after it has been restored).
“Professionals,” noted Knutsen, “will be utilized to do specialized work like upholstery, gold leafing and chrome plating. It will be authentic when it’s done.”
Tidrington notes that the fire department still has the original owner’s manual for the truck, a hardbound book complete with driving instructions and schematics. There is also an original parts list that will be invaluable when it comes down to details like matching the original red paint.
Full restoration involves painstaking work from the chassis up. Those who visited the Fire Hall Open House saw the 1924 American LaFrance chassis, separated temporarily from the body that is being sanded and painted.
“This truck is the property of the citizens of Anacortes,” noted Tidrington. “It is the only (1924 LaFrance) fire truck I know of that was done to this level of detail. The city has agreed to partially fund the restoration, and many businesses and individuals have also stepped forward. But we need more financial help to do the job right.” Fidalgo Magazine October 29, 1997. Note: Truck in photo is not Anacortes LaFrance, which was disassembled at the time. This LaFrance engine was from the City of Mount Vernon.

Share this:
Facebook
X

« Previous Article Next Article »

FROM THE GALLERY

LOOKING BACK

Beneath the bridges
April 21st, 2020

Seasonal fog at Pass: 2005
October 4th, 2020

Fresh crab for sale: 2009
September 21st, 2021

About Photographer Steve Berentson

A fourth generation Skagit County native who was moved kicking and screaming from this island community in 1960. I finally reclaimed an Anacortes address in 1980, and I have been in constant celebration of my return since that time. Many of us who call Anacortes home love Fidalgo Island for its natural assets: among them are rugged beaches, pristine lakes, thousands of acres of forestland and some awesome views of the Skagit Valley and surrounding islands. Another element of my love affair with this community is its people, both natives and immigrants. They will “star” in many of my journal entries.

PHOTO LICENSING
Photos are available for use as prints and online use. Please contact me for pricing.

PRINTS
$12 for 5 X 7 inch archival print, mailing included.

All Photos are © Steve Berentson. All rights reserved.

« Previous Article

Next Article »

Fire engine saga begins: 1997

About Photographer Steve Berentson

Sitemap

Contact

Social Media

Photo Prints & Licensing