Timeline of Firefighting equipment in Doylestown Fire Company #1
Years of History – Acknowledging the work of Historians Mark “Beech” Hamilton (Life Member), Al Powell, Bruce Anderson (Downingtown,PA.) & Edward Loux (Life Member)
Horse-Drawn Apparatus
Hand Pump Engine
The first record shows that an Engine is in “complete repair” and apparatus of ladders, hook, etc. are ready for service. According to records it took “8 men to pump it.”
On 3/20/1847 – Unknown persons took the Engine and “threw it in the Borough Dam.”
On 7/17/1848 – The unit was removed from the Borough Dam.
On 5/18/1861 – The unit was taken out of service as it was unfit to use.
In December of 1867 – The engine was sold in 1867 to Enoch Wampole and Andrew Rickert. Sale price was $12.25.
New Number 1 Hand Pump Engine
Unit was built by Cowing & Company of Seneca Falls, New York. Purchased for $651.00 by Borough Council in July of 1868.
An article in the Intelligencer on July 7th, 1868 stated “While this Engine makes no pretense to style or beauty, it is believed to be an efficient implement.”
It has brass suction and forced pumps. The unit weighs 1000 pounds and can throw a single stream 130 feet. It is supplied with suction hose and necessary pipes and nozzles.”
On 7/24/1879 – It was reported the hand engine had 16 men working the pump.
In July of 1885 the Engine was sold to Thomas Petro, a vendor from Philadelphia for $50.00 to purchase the 1885 Red Hose Carriage #2
Two Wheeled Horse Cart
In July of 1868, Borough Council purchased a two wheeled hose cart for $75.00 from Thomas H. Petro of Philadelphia. Petro was a vendor for the A.H. English Company.
The unit was believed to be gone prior to the organization of Doylestown Fire Company No.1.
The unit is referenced in Fire Company minutes.
1871 Green Hose Carriage (Carriage 1)
Unit was purchased on 5/30/1871 for a cost of $530.18 by Borough Council. Purchase included 600′ of hose.
On 10/31/1893 – Unit turned over to Doylestown Fire Company No.1 by Borough Council.
On 3/2/1904 – Motion made to have the Green Hose Carriage repainted.
On 5/4/1904 – It was reported that the Green Hose Carriage was repainted red and had the axle straightened.
On 7/6/1904 – Another motion was made to get the equipment to make the carriage able to be pulled by horses.
On 3/2/1910 – Brass plates were placed on the carriage.
The unit is currently in possession of the Bucks County Historical Society.
1884 Rumsey & Company Ladder Wagon
Produced in Seneca Falls, NY. They were “well known makers of pumps and fire apparatus.” Front line service from 1894-1948. It was replaced by the 1926 Hale which was purchased used from Fairmount Fire Company in Lansdale, PA.
On 11/15/1893 – Motion made to purchase a ladder truck. The Committee of members (Yardley, Donnelly, Beerer & Booz) appointed to visit Morrisville Fire Company to inspect their apparatus.
On 11/22/1893 – Motion made to purchase truck at “best possible terms.”
On 12/5/1893 – Committee reported the truck could be obtained at $410. Committee directed to contact the Rumsey Company.
On 1/9/1894 – Committee reported contract had been made and to be delivered within 60 days.
On 2/2/1894 – Special Meeting held by President Beerer who reported the truck had arrived and “everything was complete and according to contract.”
On 3/6/1894 – Committee met to talk about renting space at Lenape Hall for the ladder truck.
On 4/4/1894 – No arrangement on rental at Lenape Hall. Trustees instructed to rent 1/8th of the “Market House” and construct a board partition 8′ high.
On 5/2/1900 – A brake was added to the ladder wagon.
On 2/1/1911 – A seat had been added to the ladder and necessary equipment to make the unit horse drawn.
On 5/3/1916 – A motion was made to have the Trustees look into converting the unit to an “auto tractor.” No action was taken and there was no further mention of this.
On 7/5/1950 – A motion was made to donate the ladder wagon to the Bucks County Historical Society. It is currently in possession of the Mercer Museum. It was on parade in 1995 at the Bucks County Firefighters parade held in Doylestown, PA.
1850's Red Hose Carriage (Carriage 2)
Unit was purchased in 1885 by Borough Council. It was approximately an 1855 originally manufactured for the Laurel Hose Company 30 in New York City.
In 1865, Laurel changed their name to the General George B. McClellan Hose Company of New York City.
They gave the unit to Independent Hose Company in Philadelphia. In 1865, the unit was painted blue and white for the Hauley Hose Company of Chester, PA.
It was then repainted red and purchased by Doylestown Borough Council. Front line service from 1855-1913. Unit was turned over to the Doylestown Fire Company No. 1 on 10/31/1893.
On 2/3/1904 - A motion was made to get equipment to make the Carriage able to be pulled by horses.
On 3/2/1910 - Brass number plates were placed on the Carriage. On 4/4/1913 - The Carriage was donated to the Bucks County Historical Society
Hose Cart
On 6/3/1903 – The Trustees along with the Fire Committee of Doylestown Borough Council reviewed and discussed fire equipment on hand and possible additions were discussed.
On 11/4/1903 – It was reported Borough Council had ordered a cart along with 500′ of hose.
On 12/10/1903 – Unit was received.
On 7/6/1904 – Motion made to get equipment to make unit able to be pulled by horses.
On 8/7/1940 – Request made to use the unit for Fire Prevention Week at the Norristown Fire Company.
On 7/5/1950- The Hose Cart was donated to the Bucks County Historical Society.
1908 Chemical Wagon
In 1908, the Doylestown Borough Council was willing to spend up to $100.00 on chemical extinguishers. The Trustees obtained a cart (donated by a member) to carry them on. The Chemical Wagon went into service on 5/6/1908.
With the arrival of the 1914 Simplex Auto Chemical, the 1908 Chemical Wagon was donated to the newly formed Dublin Fire Company on 4/4/1917 as their first piece of equipment. Photo taken 1910 and is from the Fred Martin Collection.MOTORIZED ApPARATUS
1914 Simplex Auto Chemical Engine
Our first motorized apparatus. Powered by a 50hp motor, it featured a 500gpm pump and (2) 40 gallon Kanawah chemical tanks. Built locally by John J. Rufe & Sons at 103 South Main Street (you can still see their painted sign on the brick building).
Purchased after a major fire on 12/24/1913 at the Doylestown Ag Works, a fund drive began to improve firefighting apparatus in Doylestown. The drive raised $7928.23 The Company bought a 1912 Simplex Chassis for $2000 and the up fit was completed for $1240 Unit went into service on 7/1/1914. Front line service from 1914-1926. On 9/2/1914 – The hose basket was adapted with hinges to make recharging the tanks easier. On 12/1/1915 – Two ladders were purchased to be added to the Chemical Car. An article in the Public Spirit posted in January 1916 reported “At 4 o’clock, Wednesday at West and Court Streets (while returning from a fire), William J. Wintzen, a 70 year old resident and former Borough Engineer stepped off the running board of Dr. James E. Groff’s automobile and walked directly into the path of the Chemical Apparatus. Wintzen was killed instantly. Spectators absolved the Chemical Apparatus driver of blame.” On 1/2/1924 – There was discussion on the meeting room floor to convert the unit to a “pumper car” but no action was taken even after being discussed a second time on 4/7/1926. Unit was ultimately traded in to purchase the 1926 American LaFrance Cosmopolitan.
1914 Auto Pumper
Following the delivery of the 1914 Simplex, the Fire Company contracted locally with John J. Rufe & Sons to build an auto-pumper. Equipped with a 50hp motor, it featured a 500gpm Waterous pump and weighed 6200 pounds. Cost of apparatus was $1500.00.
On 3/4/1915 – Unit was turned over from the purchasing committee to the Trustees to be placed into service. Front line service from 1915-1924. On 2/6/1924 – The minutes of the Fire Company report the unit was dismantled and sold as junk to Joseph Baker. There are no known pictures of this unit.
1923 (Used) Fiat Auxiliary Hose Car
Purchased from resident J.J. Conroy for $300. It was utilized as an auxiliary hose car. Vehicle was sent to Doylestown Body Works to have a body mounted on it for $250. It was then sent to Hale pumps to have a used American LaFrance chemical system added along with a 150' hose basket. Total cost once placed into service (in the summer of 1923) was approximately $1040.07
Unit was officially “housed” (along with Ahrens-Fox) on 11/11/1923. Front line service from 1923-1926. On 1/6/1926 – The unit was damaged while pulling the Ahrens-Fox out of a ditch. Back in service of 2/3/1926 (which is the last mention of the unit in minutes). It was traded in along with the 1914 Simplex in 1926 to purchase the American LaFrance Cosmopolitan according to a newspaper article published on 7/1/1926.
1923 Ahrens-Fox
1923 Ahrens-Fox – Doylestown Fire Company No.1 signed a proposal addressed to William H. Fluck, Secretary with The Ahrens-Fox Fire Engine Company (Cincinnati, OH.) on June 18th 1923 to furnish “One (1) Triple Combination Pumping Engine, Hose and Chemical Car, Booster Equipment” for the sum of $12,400 dollars. A build time of 90 days. The unit would be a Model N-S-4 front mount multi-plex piston pump with ball air chamber, capable of displacing 3.212 gallons per piston revolution. Rated at 1000gpm pump with 300 gallon water tank. The motor is a six cylinder vertical Tee-head four cycle water cooled producing 115 brake test horsepower. A two inch float feed “carbureter” with automatic progressive fuel and air feeds. Sparked by a high tension magneto with auxiliary battery. A 35 gallon fuel tank was provided. Rolling on Artillery type wheels with roller bearing hubs.
Overall length is 182 inches. Unit features one 20′ rapid hoist extension ladder with rope and locking device. In addition, a 12′ roof ladder fitted with folding hooks. A tool box of “permissible dimensions” was complete with a hammer, pliers, two screw drivers, two adjustable wrenches, chisel, punch and “such other wrenches as are ordinarily required.” One 12″ locomotive bell mounted on the dash.
Registration #943, Motor #2128 shipped on October 11th, 1923 via F.O.B. cars by the Philadelphia & Reading Rail Road to Doylestown, PA. Weight of 13,500lbs.
Front line service from 1923-1951. Pneumatic tires added in 1933. Unit was “reconditioned” in 1940 for a cost of $2948.41
Replaced by the 1951 Maxim Pumper after we petitioned Doylestown Borough and Doylestown Township for a new unit due to maintenance costs. Retained as a reserve piece & parade unit. Full restoration of “Engine 19-3” was contracted in 1994 by Andy Swift at Firefly Restorations in Hope ME. Unit is currently on display at Station 19 in the “Fox Box” and can be seen at various events during the year.
1926 American LaFrance Cosmopolitan (Brockway Highway Express) Type 63 “triple combination” pumper
Purchased when the Ahrens-Fox was “found to be too heavy for country roads & bridges.” Assured that “one pumper would always be in town.” The Company settled on the American LaFrance after considering units from Mack, Seagraves and Hale.
Registration #B-394, assigned to the Elmira sales office on 6/23/1923. Sales order #1577. Powered by a 6 cylinder, 70HP type 6-B Continental motor, Brown-Leip transmission and spiral gear rear end.
400gpm pump, equipped with 40 gallon chemical tank, 1000ft hose body, 200ft chemical hose in basket, 12′ roof ladder and 20′ extension ladder. Cost of unit was $6800 less $1000 credit for trade in of 1914 Simplex Auto Chemical and the 1923 Fiat Auxiliary Car.
Final cost was $5848.73. Chemical tanks were changed to a booster system in 1931. Front line service from 1926-1938. The ALF was traded in 1938 to purchase the Hale. It was then sold to Wrightstown, NJ. on 1/10/1939. This is the only picture we have of the ALF. An article printed on 7/1/1926 stated “this machine will be built for fighting fires in the rural districts which requires a pumper that is strongly built, but at the same time is light.”
“Since 1921 American LaFrance began producing firefighting apparatus on Brockway commercial truck chassis. They made in 4 types: Type 36 (1921) was a triple combination (hose car, pump and chemical tank) with 300 gpm rotary pump. Type 46 (1927) had 2 chemical tanks instead of one and 400 gpm rotary pump. Type 63 “Highway Express” (1926) was equipped with a more powerful Continental engine and rotary pump from Type 46. Type 66 (1927) received the most capacity 500 gpm rotary pump.”
1938 Hale Open Cab Pumper
1938 Hale open cab pumper. Serial #7737, Job #4231. Features a 500gpm Hale type 2D rotary gear pump. Delivered on 9/15/1938 for an approximate cost of $7347.99
In service from 1938-1972. Donated to Bucks County Fire School but returned to Company in early 1980’s for restoration. Purchased by Past Chief & Life Member Don Tilley and currently owned by his son, Past Chief & Life Member Doug Tilley.
1942 GMC Standard Conventional Cab Utility Truck
In July 1943, the Fire Company tried to purchase the unit from Paul Histand's in Doylestown but the purchase was rejected by the OPA (Office of Price Administration). The Office of Price Administration (OPA) was established within the Office for Emergency Management of the United States government by Executive Order 8875 on August 28, 1941. The functions of the OPA were originally to control money (price controls) and rents after the outbreak of World War II.[3] This was a component of "The New Deal."
The decision was appealed and purchase permission was granted by the WPB (War Production Board). The War Production Board (WPB) was an agency of the United States government that supervised war production during World War II.
The Utility Truck was purchased for $1,037 and paid for on 10/6/1943. While awaiting arrival, the Fire Company purchased a 1200watt power plant and two flood lights for $500 to install on the vehicle. In June 1944, the pickup bed was replaced with a utility body from Boyertown Auto Body Works (Boyertown,PA.) for $535.
Excellent information on the history of the Boyertown Auto Body Works can be found at www.coachbuilt.com/bui/b/boyertown/boyertown.htm
Front line service from 1943-1956. Unit was sold to Point Pleasant Fire Company (Station 41, Bucks County PA.) At the October 1956 business meeting, the Company voted to return their check and donate the vehicle to Point Pleasant.
1926 Hale "City Service" Ladder
1951 Maxim Semi-Cab Convertible
1953 Maxim Semi-Cab Convertible 75' Mid-Mount Steel Aerial Ladder
Repainted red/white in 1970's by Hamerly Custom Productions in Shartlesville, PA. Front line service from 1953-1989. Sold to Ottsville Fire Company (Station 49 Bucks County,PA.) and then to Bucks County Fire School in 1992. Unit was eventually scrapped.
1947 Chevrolet Standard Conventional Cab (CF-Series)
Acquired in 1953. Unit was a converted elliptical (fuel) tanker. Carried 700 gallons of water. Front line service from 1953-1964. Photo below taken in 1959. Unit was replaced by the 1964 Ford F700 Tanker. Good information on this style of Cab can be found at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_AK_Series.
Unit was donated to the Marshalls Creek Fire Company (Monroe County, PA).
1956 Chevrolet Model 3803 V8-Trademaster Engine (producing 145hp)
A 4WD 1ton Utility Truck. Standard conventional cab with custom open side compartmented rescue/utility body. Extended front bumper with winch.
Unit was purchased in January 1956 to replace the 1942 GMC Utility. Quote received from the Hayman-Radcliff Motor Company (State & Main Streets, Doylestown) on December 15th, 1955 and subsequently purchased for a price of $3,482.85. Contracted with Harwick Manufacturing to install the utility body. Placed into service on 9/17/1956. Overall weight was approximately 8113lbs with a 135" wheelbase. Dual rear wheels were recommended. It was equipped with a Garwood 7000lb 2 speed front mounted winch with 229' of 7/16" cable, Kohler 5kw generator, (2) 500watt and (2) 1000watt flood lights, air packs and other firefighting equipment. Front line service from 1956-1973. It was replaced by the 1973 International.
Unit was sold for $2500 to Central Bucks Ambulance & Rescue Unit in Doylestown, PA. in September of 1973. It was repainted white over green (pictured below) and ran as the first "Rescue 125" Photos taken 1957, 1965 & 1973.
1958 Maxim Semi-Cab Convertibl
1958 Maxim semi-cab convertible equipped with 750gpm pump and 300 gallon water tank. Featured top mount booster reel and deck gun, broad double bar plated front bumper, exposed pump panel, 3 sections of hard sleeve, rear fender compartments and walkway body with bench seating on both sides. This truck featured our first fender mounted Q2A mechanical siren from the Federal Sign and Signal Corporation. Affectionately known as the "Big Maxim."
Front line service from 1958-1984. Repainted white over red in the 1970's by Hamerly Custom Productions. It was replaced by the 1984 Pierce Arrow. Sold to a private individual from Southern NJ. for $2500. It was re-lettered "REAL MCCOY FIRE CO."
Chevrolet Station Wagon
1964 Oldsmobile Ambulwagon
1964 Ford F-700 Allied
1964 Ford F-700 Allied, standard conventional cab truck which boasted an 8 cylinder 391. Equipped with a 98gpm PTO pump and 1,250 gallons of water. Body was modified in 1975 by Hamerly Custom Productions. It was repainted white over red. Front line service from 1964-1982.
In 1982, the Tanker was donated for $1 to the Alsace Manor Fire Company in Temple (Berks County,PA.) when their station was destroyed by fire. In 1987 the Tanker was re-chassised with an International S-series (standard conventional cab). In 1994, the Tanker was traded into New Lexington Fire Equipment and subsequently sold to Union-Walnuttown Fire Company in Fleetwood (Berks County, PA.)
In 1997, the Tanker was sent to 4-guys where the body was removed and replaced with a mirror finish stainless steel elliptical tank.
On 4/28/2021, "Tanker 32" was involved in a crash on RT 222 at Pleasant Hill Road in Maidencreek Township. The unit sustained significant damage. Video from the incident can be seen at this link:
Fire Truck Overturns in Crash on 222 in Maidencreek TwpThe Tanker was taken out of service. A 2021 KME 3,000 gallon tanker was to be delivered in June/July 2021 with a housing scheduled on 10/9/2021.
1964 Ford Falcon Deluxe Club Wagon Van
Powered by a Ford 270 straight 6 and 3 speed manual transmission. Carried 8 personnel and a patient litter. Front line service from 1964-1983. Replaced by the 1983 Chevrolet Van.
1968 Hahn Pumper
1968 Hahn Pumper. Cincinnati canopy cab Model C-10. Demonstration unit purchased directly on the floor by members who attended the New York Fire Chiefs Convention that year. Features a 1000gpm 2 stage Hale pump with 300 gallon water tank. Detroit 6V71 7.0L producing 283 horsepower. A Spicer 5 speed transmission produces 520 ft/lbs of torque. Affectionately known as "Hot Stuff"
Factory rehabilitation contracted during January 1984 included an upgrade to 750 gallons, 95gpm bypass foam eductor and "high sides" to accommodate 5" supply hose for a cost of $45,000. Rehab occurred at the Hahn Service Center in Shartlesville, PA.
41 years of front line service from 1968-2009 made the Hahn our longest serving front line pumper. It primarily ran as "Engine 19-2" but was re-designated "Engine 79-2" when it moved to the Warden Road Station in 2002. Sold to the DeAngelis family of Bristol, PA. in 2009 for $5000. Sold back to Past Chief & Life Member Dennis Loux JR. and Deputy Chief & Life member Ed Loux for $4500 on 5/7/2016. Currently serves as "Engine 99 - Independent of Doylestown"
William G. Hahn (1878-1937) formed the Hahn Wagon & Carriage Works in 1898, and moved to Hamburg in 1901. William's brother Adam joined the company in the early 1900s and it moved into the motorized truck business. Hahn built its first fire truck in 1915. William Hahn sold the company to a group of investors in 1927. The same group also purchased the Selden Motor Truck Company of Rochester, New York. However, the venture failed in 1932 due to the Great Depression. William Hahn stepped in and formed a new company, Hahn Motors. William was killed in a car accident in 1937 and his brother succeeded him as president. During the Second World War, Hahn built Ford front-mount pumpers under contact for American Marsh, as well as aircraft control towers and mobile repair shops for the US military.
After the war, the company chose to focus on fire apparatus exclusively, abandoning the truck chassis business. In the late 1940s, commercial chassis fire trucks were added to the product offerings. Aerial ladder assemblies were initially purchased from Grove and Pierre Thibault, and towers from LTI, until Hahn introduced the Fire Spire in 1978. Some custom Hahn chassis were sold to other manufacturers in the 1980s. Hahn experienced financial difficulties in the late 1980s and closed its doors in 1989. American LaFrance purchased the name and goodwill, but never made use of it.
http://fire.wikia.com/wiki/Hahn_Motors_Inc.
1970 Cadillac Parkway Professional High-top Ambulance, Coachwork by Superior
Equipped with a 472ci OHV V8 Engine, Single Rochester 4-Barrel Carburetor producing 375bhp at 4,400rpm. It had a 3-Speed Turbo Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission Front Independent Suspension - Live Rear Axle, Front Disc, Rear Drum Brakes
A great history of Superior Ambulance and Coach can be found at the link to their website:
https://www.ambulanceandcoach.com/superior-coaches/
1975 Cadillac Miller-Meteor Criterion High-top Ambulance
1975 Cadillac Miller-Meteor Criterion High-top Ambulance. The starting point for the Criterion was Cadillac's Series 86 commercial chassis. Wheelbase was 157.5 inches. Cadillac sold 1,329 of these chassis in 1975.
A brand new unit in 1975 cost about $30,000. This unit was sold to Central Bucks Ambulance and Rescue unit in the late 1970's when Doylestown Fire Company No.1 voted to cease ambulance operations. It was repainted to the green & white scheme of CBA&R.
1973 International Loadstar
1973 International Loadstar 1710 (purchased locally) with Boyd Rescue Body contracted by Hamerly Custom Productions to produce and mount a custom full width open utility body. 4x4 capability with front mounted 12,000lb wire rope winch and 5 speed Fuller transmission. Purchase price for original body was $19,150. Official housing occurred on 9/9/1978.
Front Line service from 1973-1988 as Rescue 19. Replaced by 1987 Saulsbury-Duplex unit.
Repurposed in 1988 to become Field 79. The rescue body was removed. A flat bed with skid load pump and wood rails installed. Motor replaced with a 345 International. In 1994, skid load upgraded to 200gpm pump with 250 gallons of water, 200' forestry hose and a 150ft reel mounted booster. Custom storage boxes replaced the removable wood railings. Truck carries an assortment of hand tools, chainsaws and brush equipment.
At 51 years of service, it served as our longest front line apparatus. In need of extensive repairs, our Executive Board approved the sale (closed bids to members) of Field 79 on 6/3/2024. Past Chief and Life Member Doug Tilley purchased the unit for $578.00
Hi Ex Foam Generator on Homemade Trailer
1976 Mack R-600, Standard Cab
1976 Mack R-600, Standard Cab. Equipped with 235hp Mack turbo diesel, 5 speed manual transmission, 173" wheelbase. 1000gpm pump with 500 gallons of water. Hamerly Custom Productions paint scheme. Purchased on 4/12/1976, "housed" on 9/9/1978. Converted to high sides in 1982 to accommodate 3000ft of 5" hose. Front line service from 1976-1992 (replaced by 1992 Pierce Lance). This was the last unit where firefighters "rode the tailboard."
Sold to West Colesville (Broome County, NY) on 3/2/1992.
In 2010 it was offered back to the Company for $2000 as a unit to tow the Ahrens-Fox & trailer to events. Company vote declined the purchase. It was sold to a private owner and converted to the 5th wheel hauler pictured below. Vehicle can been seen at times during the ATCA truck show in Macungie, PA. (father's day weekend annually).
1976 Hendrickson 1871S
1976 Hendrickson 1871S / Young low-profile canopy cab with Simon "King Cobra" English made SS300 103ft three section elevating boom platform. Conceived by Dick Young as a result of years of aerial platform building. Serial #76-641 was purchased for $275,000. Unit featured a mid-mounted Detroit 8V71 turbo charged diesel motor, automatic transmission, crankshaft driven 1250gpm Hale pump, tandem rear axles, a 7.5kw Onan generator and 153ft of ground ladders. One of its sister units was Serial #76-553 run by the Erlton Fire Company in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Front line service from 1976-1990. First housed at the Bus Garage (now student lot) at Central Bucks West High School until Station 79 was completed in 1979. Unit was replaced with the 1989 Pierce rear-mount aerial.
Sold to Friendship Hose Company (York County, PA.) in 1990 who operated the unit until 2010. Subsequently sold to the P.H. Glatfelter Company of Spring Grove, PA. for $4500. In 2019, rumored to be sitting in a junkyard nearby. Research found the unit was scrapped out of Red Lion Salvage,LLC in Red Lion,PA. sometime between 2019-2021.
1972 Chevy Stepvan
1972 Chevy Stepvan served as the first "Canteen 19" which was operated by the Doylestown Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary (later renamed the "Auxiliary"). Unit would serve food and refreshments at fire scenes to support personnel around the region. Purchased used from "BelTel" and ran from 1980 to 1999. It was sold and replaced by the 1986 unit which was also purchased as used vehicle.
Donated 17 KW Onan Generator on Trailer
1982 Pierce / Ford C-8000
Repainted lighter shade of red prior to delivery. Powered by a CAT 3208, 210hp diesel motor, Allision MT643 automatic transmission. 1000gpm pump with 1000 gallons of water. Unit had a 175" wheelbase, steel water tank, 6KW Onan generator, foam eductor, & top mount deck gun. Affectionately known as "Square Bear."
Front line service from 1982-1998. It was replaced by the 1998 Pierce Dash.
Offered for sale in the PA Fireman for $50,000, it was sold to a dealer and re-sold to Jefferson Township (Mercer County, PA.) who operated the unit until 2012. Jefferson Township sold the unit to Grampian Penn Bloom Volunteer Fire Company (Clearfield County, PA.) They subsequently sold it in 2016 to a private owner in western PA.
1983 GMC G-series van
Powered with a 250 cubic inch 4.1 litre Inline 6 with a 4 speed automatic transmission. It's identifier was Special Service 19. Used to carry personnel and equipment. It replaced the 1964- Ford Falcon club wagon van. This unit served from 1983-1999. It was replaced with the 1989 Chevy Suburban (chief's vehicle) which had been reassigned as Special Service 19.
The Chevrolet Van or Chevy Van (also known as the Chevrolet/GMC G-series vans and GMC Vandura) is a range of vans that was manufactured by General Motors from the 1964 to 1996 model years. Introduced as the successor for the rear-engine Corvair Corvan/Greenbrier, the model line also replaced the panel van configuration of the Chevrolet Suburban. The model line was sold in passenger van and cargo van configurations as well as a cutaway van chassis that served as the basis for a variety of custom applications.
1983 Chevrolet Malibu Classic Station Wagon
Chevrolet Malibu Classic Station Wagon purchased in 1983 as our first dedicated Chief vehicle. 5-door wagon body type RWD (rear-wheel drive) and powered by a 3.8l V-6 automatic with 3 speed gearbox.
Displacement of 228.9 cui, advertised power 110 hp, torque 190 lb-ft. The Wagon was assigned to the Deputy Chief in 1988 when the Chevy Suburban was purchased. This began the expansion of our Chief vehicle fleet.
Motor replacement in the early 90's was performed by members in the basement of Station 79. Sold privately in 1993 when it was replaced by the 1993 Ford Crown Victoria.
1984 Pierce Arrow Engine.
Pierce Job #E2309. 5 person canopy cab. Powered by a 6v92TA Detroit turbo diesel 335hp motor with Allison HT740 Automatic transmission. 1250gpm dual-stage Waterous pump. Equipped with a 95gpm preconnect bypass foam eductor, 6kw Onan generator, 5" air actuated front and rear intakes.
This was our first custom built fire apparatus from Pierce Manufacturing in Appleton Wisconsin. They are a custom fire and rescue apparatus and a wholly owned subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation. Pierce was acquired by Oshkosh in 1996 and is currently the largest fire apparatus company in the world. The company was founded in 1913 by Humphrey Pierce and his son Dudley as the Pierce Auto Body Works Inc., and concentrated on building custom truck bodies for the Ford Model T. The first production facility was designed in 1917 and enlarged in 1918 by architect Wallace W. DeLong.[1] From the 1960s to the early 1980s, Pierce was primarily known for building custom bodies on commercial and other manufacturer's custom chassis, and was considered an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The "Arrow" was the first custom fire truck chassis that debuted in 1979.
Front line service from 1984-1999. It served as "Engine 19" until 1998 when it was replaced by the 1998 Pierce Dash. It moved to "Engine 79." The Fire Company considered a refurb to enclose the cab but instead elected to replace the unit with the Quantum pumper in 2000.
Unit was sold on 11/29/1999 to Alec Sprenger (Custom-Tec Fire Apparatus in Canada) for $130,000. Unit was rented to Paramount Studios and appears in the 2002 spy thriller "Sum of all Fears" where it was re-lettered and appears as Engine 79 Baltimore City FD.
In 12/2001 unit was sold to West End Fire Company in Mt.Carmel,PA. (Northumberland County,PA.) and repainted the racing orange color.
In early 2014, the unit was sold to the Westside Volunteer Fire Department in Edgefield (Edgefield County, SC.) where it currently operates as Engine 771.
1987 Pace Industries
1987 Pace Industries (Perkasie,PA.) Model 9-D 22,000lb Tri-Axle Trailer. Manufactured and purchased 5/1987. Used as an equipment hauler and primary tow unit for the 1923 Ahrens-Fox. Equipped with a Ramsey 8000lb wire rope winch.
Sold in 2020 to a private individual for $8000
1988 Duplex Vanguard D-500 (stubby tilt cab) with Saulsbury aluminum custom 20ft walk-in rescue body.
Powered by a Detroit 8V92 turbo diesel motor (450hp), Allison automatic transmission, 25kw Onan PTO generator. Seating for 2 in front, "6 seats" in the rear. Hurst rescue tool system upgraded to Holmatro hydraulic rescue system. 35ft 4x1500watt light tower, 20,000lb front winch, 12,000lb rear winch, 6 bottle 5000psi air cascade system. 2 low pressure air reels, 1 high pressure air reel, 3 electric reels (including 220 volt). Ladder compliment included (1) 24', (1) 14' roof ladder and (1) 10' attic ladder. Command post for inter & intra County communications.
Front line service from 1988-2014. Replaced with 2014 Pierce Quantum Rescue. Sold to Point Pleasant Fire Company, Station 41 (Bucks County, PA.) on 1/6/2014 for $25,000. Currently operates as Dive Rescue 41.
1989 Pierce Lance 105′ Rear Mount (Smeal) Steel Aerial
1989 Pierce Lance 105′ rear mount (Smeal) steel aerial. Pierce Job #E5305. Powered by Detroit 8V92 turbo diesel, Allision automatic transmission. No pump, pre-piped waterway. Unit carried over 300ft of ground ladders. 12kw Onan generator.
Front line service 1990-2009. Sold to Indian River Fire Company (Sussex County, DE.) for $100,000 as Ladder 80 in August 2009. Subsequently sold to Crisfield Volunteer Fire Department in Crisfield (Somerset County, MD.) on 3/1/2021.
1988 GMC Suburban 2500
1988 GMC Suburban 2500 purchased as a new Fire Chief vehicle. The 1983 Chevy Malibu was moved to the Deputy Chief Vehicle. "Car 19" was equipped with a V8 5.7liter 350. It operated as a mobile command unit. It ran from 1989 thru 1997. It then transitioned to our first dedicated Fire Police unit where it operated until 2007. It was sold to Life Member, John Cope. The Chief's vehicle was replaced in 2004 by a new Chevy Tahoe.
Good information can be found at this site. https://www.gmheritagecenter.com/docs/gm-heritage-archive/vehicle-information-kits/Suburban/1988-Chevrolet-Suburban.pdf
1992 Pierce Lance Engine.
Pierce Job #E7179. Powered by a Detroit 8V92 turbo diesel motor, Allison automatic transmission. Equipped with Waterous 2000gpm dual-stage pump, 1000 gallons of water, 30 gallon class B foam tank, 15kw Hydro-Gen PTO generator & Air source One onboard air system.
Front line service from 1992-2019. Affectionately known as "Flame Tamer", it ran as Engine 19-1. This was our first enclosed cab pumper and eliminated "tail-board" riding. It replaced the 1976 Mack.
Sold to the New Hope Eagle Volunteer Fire Company (Station 46 Bucks County, PA.) for $13,000 on 3/9/2019. Ran as Engine 64 until sold privately to a member in 2023. Reportedly operating on a farm in New Jersey.
Chevrolet Caprice
1993 Ford Crown Victoria "P72" Police Interceptor Unit
1993 Ford Crown Victoria "P72" Police Interceptor unit purchased to replace the 1983 Chevy Malibu Station Wagon. Operated as a Chief Vehicle from 1993 through 2004 when it was replaced with a Chevy Tahoe.
Though the name has been officially in use since 1992, the 1979–1991 full-sized LTDs and LTD Crown Victorias used the "P72" production code designation for both fleet and taxi, and police models, with the model itself being internally classified as S (similar to LX). From 1992 to 1997, the police car models of the Crown Victoria (both base and LX trims) were officially known as Crown Victoria P71s.
In the 1993 model year, the Crown Victoria was given a chrome front grille and a reflector strip between the taillights. Photo taken at the 1993 Bucks County Fireman's Parade in Morrisville, PA. Photo credit listed.
Ford F-350 Crew Cab Pickup 4WD
Jackson Utility Trailer
Scotty Safety House RV
Chevrolet Caprice
1997 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD
Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD purchased in 1997. It served as a Chief vehicle thru 2009. Unit was repurposed to Traffic 19 and served as a Fire Police unit until 2016 when it was sold.
1998 Pierce Dash 2000 GPM Engine
1998 Pierce Dash 2000 GPM Engine (Pierce Job #EB186). 4 door elevated roof cab, carries 6 firefighters. Equipped with Detroit Diesel series 60 motor (500hp), Allison automatic transmission, 2000gpm dual-stage waterous pump, 1000 gallon poly water tank. Husky Foam system with 45 gallon Class A & 30 gallon Class B tanks, 15kw AMPS PTO generator & Air-Source one on-board 5000psi air tank system. Metallic finish roll-up doors. Carries 1500 feet 5" hose. Purchased thru Domestic Fire Apparatus & delivered 12/1997 for a price of $525,000.
Replaced 1982 Pierce/Ford as "Engine 19" running out of Shewell Avenue station. Moved to "Engine 19-1" in April 2020 when 1992 Pierce Lance was sold. On 6/8/2022, members decided to acknowledge the units "reserve status" and approved a character for the truck. Firefighter Tricia Shepard recreated the Square Bear character previously assigned to the 1982 Ford Pierce. E19-1 bears the nickname "Spare Bear."
Front line service from 1998 to current.
1999 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD
Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD agreed to purchase at monthly meeting on 6/2/1999 for a fully equipped price of $40,253. This would become the new vehicle for Chief 19. The 1983 Chevy Van was traded in and the 1989 Suburban became our new Utility vehicle (then referred to as Special Service 19). This Tahoe was in service from 1999 - 2011. It was replaced by a 2011 Chevy Tahoe.
1986 Chevrolet Grumman Canteen Van
1986 Chevrolet Grumman Canteen Van purchased used in 1999 from a food vendor. Replaced the 1972 Canteen which was sold. Ran as Canteen 19 from 1999-2018. It was sold to a food truck business. Photo taken 2016..
2000 Ford Crown Victoria
Ford Crown Victoria in service from 2000 - 2007. It was assigned to Battalion 19. Vehicle was replaced in 2007 with the purchase of a Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD.
2000 Pierce Quantum Engine
Front line service from 2000-2019. It replaced the 1984 Pierce Arrow. Purchased after the Company considered a demonstrator unit during a special meeting held 5/26/1999. Members liked the unit but wanted one built and painted “Doylestown Red” with a few other additions. Motion carried and agreed purchase price was $318,000
It was the first Engine purchased to run as “Engine 79” from the start. This unit was replaced by the 2019 Pierce Enforcer Pumper. Sold to Command Fire (broker) and subsequently delivered to North Union Township Fire Company in Lemont Furnace (Fayette County, PA.)
2004 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD
Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD purchased in 2004 to serve as a dedicated unit for Battalion 79. Unit sold in 2014 and replaced by the 2014 Tahoe.
Carmate Enclosed Trailer
2007 Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab Pickup 4WD
Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab Pickup 4WD purchased in 2007 to replace the 1997 Chevy Tahoe as a new vehicle for Chief 19. Powered by a GM LH6 5.3L Gen. IV aluminum V8. The 1997 Tahoe was re-assigned as Special Service 19. The 2007 Pickup was reassigned solely to Fire Police in 2018 and currently operates as "Traffic 19"
2009 Pierce Quantum 100′ rear mount (aluminum)
2009 Pierce Quantum 100′ rear mount (aluminum). Pierce Job #21415AD. Waterous 1750gpm single stage pump, 500 gallons water. Powered by Cummins ISM 500hp motor with Allison automatic transmission. Seating for 6, 20kw Onan generator. Delivered on 5/2009. Purchase price $887,000
Front line service 2009-2021. Sold to Forest Volunteer Fire Department, Station 81 in Lackawaxen Township (Pike County, PA.) for $450,000. Taken out of service on 6/26/2021 for scheduled delivery on 7/15/2021. Replaced by the 2021 Pierce Mid-Mount Tower Ladder delivered in November 2021.
2010 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD
Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD purchased in 2010. Unit assigned to Battalion 19. It was replaced (sold to private owner) in 2020 with the Dodge Ram 1500 quad cab pickup.
2002 Kawasaki Mule 4WD
2002 Kawasaki Mule 4WD was donated to the Fire Company in 2010 after it served Doylestown Borough from 2002-2010 as a unit to water the hanging flower baskets around town. Painted and vinyl wrapped in white by Vesci Auto Body in Jamison, PA. It was outfitted with lights and siren and operated as Utility 19-1. Used as a quick response vehicle during events in town while streets were closed for pedestrian traffic. Unit operated from 2010-2019. It was sold in 2019 for $5000 to a private individual.
Picture taken 5/30/2011.
2011 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD
Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD purchased in 2011. Unit assigned to Battalion 79 thru 2018 when it was replaced by the 2018 Chevy 2500 pickup.
2014 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD
Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD purchased in 2014 and assigned to Chief 19. Unit powered by a GM Vortec 5.3L V8 LMG engine.
In 2018, re-assigned to Battalion 79. In 2020, unit was re-assigned to Deputy 19. Retired on 11/8/2024 and replaced by a 2024 Chevy Tahoe SSV. On 12/7/2024, the unit was sold to the Elkins Park Fire Company in Montgomery County, PA. for $9300.00
2014 Pierce Quantum
2014 Pierce Quantum tandem Axle Rescue/Pumper with 12" raised roof cab. Pierce Job #26682. Seating for 6 firefighters. Powered by Detroit Model DD13 500hp Motor. Allison EVS4000 automatic transmission. 22' aluminum rescue body with roll up doors. Equipped with Pierce PUC 1500gpm single stage Waterous pump, 500 gallon poly water tank, Pierce Husky12 foam system with 40 gallon foam tank, 20kw Harrison hydraulic generator, Will-Burt 5400watt light tower, David Clark communications system, water & rope rescue gear, Whelen LED lighting, and full compliment of Holmatro hydraulic rescue tools. Hose compliment includes speed lays and 500 feet 5" supply hose.
Purchased from Glick Fire Equipment (Bird in Hand, PA.) and delivered on 11/16/2013 for a price of $825,000. Replaced the 1988 Saulsbury-Duplex Rescue truck. Front line service as "Rescue 19" from 2014 to current.
2018 Chevrolet Silverado
2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4×4 LT Pickup featuring a GM 6.0 litre V8 Vortec L96 Engine. Truck was purchased in 2017 and assigned to "Battalion 79." In 2018, unit was reassigned as Utility 19 where it currently serves to provide transportation of personnel and equipment.
2018 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD 4x4 Super Crew Pickup
2018 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD 4x4 Super Crew Pickup featuring a GM 6.0 litre V8 Vortec L96 Engine. It is equipped with a Knapheid Utility Body and power lift gate. Truck was purchased in 2018 to replace the 1993 Ford F350 pickup. Unit is currently assigned as Utility 79. It provides transportation of personnel and equipment.
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe 4x4
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe 4x4. Powered by a GM aluminum V8 motor, model L83 - Spark Ignited Direct Injection, Variable Valve Timing. Unit was assigned to Chief 19 as a command vehicle. Retired on 11/8/2024 and replaced by a 2024 Chevy Tahoe SSV. Offered for sale in November 2024 by sealed bid. At our business meeting on 12/11/2024, Elkins Park Fire Company was awarded the unit with a bid of $35,000. Unit was transferred to them on 12/14/2024.
2019 Pierce Enforcer Pumpers
Twin Units. Pierce Job #33174-01 (Flame Tamer) & #33174-02. Powered by Detroit DD13 with 525HP and equipped with Allison 4000EVS automatic transmission along with Hendrixson FMX272 air ride suspension. Both units feature a Waterous CMU 2000gpm two stage pump with 1000 gallons of water. Seating for 6. Height 10', Length 32' 5.5" and wheelbase of 197".
Additional features are Tak4 front suspension, 30 gallon type B foam cell, New York style aluminum hose bed with capacity for 1500" 5" hose, 300' 2" hose and 600' 3" hose. Amdor roll-up doors, Whelen emergency lighting and HiViz scene lighting.
Purchased from Glick Fire Equipment (Bird in Hand, PA.) and delivered on 7/1/2019 thru their Hatfield Service Center for a final price of $712,285 each.
Front line service as Engine 19 "flame tamer" (replaced 1992 Pierce Lance) and Engine 79 (replaced 2000 Pierce Quantum).
2020 Dodge Ram
2020 Dodge Ram 1500 quad cab pickup purchased to replace the 2010 Chevy Tahoe. Powered by 5.7 liter V8 motor. Placed into service on 11/5/2020 and assigned to Battalion 19.
2021 Dodge Ram
2021 Dodge Ram 1500 quad cab pickup purchased to replace the 2011 Chevy Tahoe. Powered by a 5.7 liter V8 motor. Placed into service on 5/17/2021 and assigned to Battalion 79. Picture taken on 11/9/2024.
2021 Pierce Ascendant Mid-Mount 100' Tower Ladder
2021 Pierce Ascendant Mid-Mount 100' Tower Ladder fitted to ArrowXT cab with seating for 6. Pierce Job #35777. Powered by Cummins X15 6 cylinder 600hp diesel motor with Allison Model EVS 4500P automatic transmission. Equipped with Waterous S100 2000gpm single stage midship mounted centrifugal pump along with a 300 gallon water tank, 75 gallon fuel tank and Hendrickson FMX 542 EX air ride suspension. Unit also features a Harrison 6KW MID6.0 hydraulic hotshift PTO generator. Wheelbase is 268", height 10' 10", Overall length 42' 11".
Delivered on 11/17/2021 thru Glick Fire Equipment for a final price of $1,518,000.00
This unit replaced our 2009 Pierce Quantum rear-mount aerial which was sold to the Forest Volunteer Fire Company (Lackawaxen Township, Pike County PA.)
Front line service from 12/16/2021-current with radio identifier Tower 79.
2023 Can-Am Defender ProXT
2023 Can-Am Defender ProXT purchased thru a State grant. It features an 82HP 976cm3 V-twin gasoline motor with 69ft-lbs of torque. The pump is a Wick 100-4H, 50cc Honda 4stroke engine, centrifugal single stage, Max pressure 92psi, Max Output 70gpm. Unit has a 50 gallon poly water tank. Additional equipment & features include: 4500lb winch, hose reel and compliment of various firefighting & EMS equipment, seating for 3, dynamic power steering, skid plates and 10.6 gallon fuel tank. Emergency lighting package designed and installed by Big Dog Lighting, LLC. in Pipersville PA. Graphics were designed and installed by Lizzi's Customs, LLC. in Warrington PA. Front line service from 6/30/2024-current with radio identifier UTV79.
2024 Chevy Tahoe SSV (Special Service Vehicle)
2024 Chevy Tahoe SSV (Special Service Vehicle). One of two was purchased to replace aging units. Powered by a 5.3-liter V8 motor with dynamic fuel management and a 10-speed overdrive transmission. Painted in sterling gray metallic and featuring our new graphics package, which was designed and installed by Lizzis Customs LL., in Warrington, PA. Whelen emergency lighting package installed by Havis Inc. in Warminster, PA. The cost of the unit, upfitting, and graphics was approximately $72,000
This unit replaces the 2018 Chevy Tahoe and is assigned to Chief 19 as a command vehicle and placed into service on 11/4/2024. Picture taken 11/9/2024.
All specifications can be found at: https://www.gmenvolve.com/content/dam/gmenvolve/na/us/english/index/police-segment-page/02-pdfs/2024-Special-Service-Tahoe-5W4-Specification-Guide.pdf
2024 Chevy Tahoe SSV (Special Service Vehicle)
2024 Chevy Tahoe SSV (Special Service Vehicle). One of two purchased to replace aging units. Powered by 5.3ltr V8 motor with dynamic fuel management and 10spd overdrive transmission. Painted in sterling gray metallic and featuring our new graphics package which was designed and installed by Lizzis Customs LL., in Warrington PA. Whelen emergency lighting package installed by Havis Inc., in Warminster PA. Cost of unit, upfitting and graphics was approximately $72,000
This unit replaces the 2014 Chevy Tahoe and is assigned to Deputy 19 as a command vehicle. Placed into service on 11/8/2024. Picture taken 11/9/2024.
All specifications can be found at: https://www.gmenvolve.com/content/dam/gmenvolve/na/us/english/index/police-segment-page/02-pdfs/2024-Special-Service-Tahoe-5W4-Specification-Guide.pdf