Engine 55 returns Engine 55, the Hamlin Fire District's first new engine, a 1931 Ward LaFrance, has returned to town after an extensive renovation. The $60,000 renovation included tearing the whole vehicle down to its frame, repairing and refurbishing every part and receiving a coat of glossy red paint. Half of the money to fund the project came from community contributions including service organizations and a grant from Senator Maziarz. The other half came from the Hamlin Fire Exempts Association, official owners of the apparatus. The result of all this work is a 75-year-old fire engine that looks and operates as good as its first day out of the factory. Engine 55 or "Bertha" as she is lovingly referred to by all Hamlin firefighters, has a long and esteemed history in this community. Bertha replaced a Model T Ford Chemical Extinguisher truck and two hose carts that had been used to protect Hamlin even before the Hamlin Fire District was incorporated in 1927. The 500 gallon per minute pump on Bertha was a giant leap forward in 1931 when it was new. Engine 55 served Hamlin for 28 years until 1959 when it was retired from active duty but still used for training and parades. She is now operated by the Engine 55 Club, a group of Exempts, and others, dedicated to maintaining "Old Bertha" as an important part of the community's historic heritage. While Old Engine 55 looks new, and operates as if new, it still needs to have its gold leaf applied and some equipment restored at an estimated expense of $8,500. The Engine 55 Club is now raising funds to complete this work. The club's goal is to roll out a completely restored show piece at this summer's Hamlin Wheel Fest celebration. The Hamlin Fire Department is an all volunteer organization providing the community with fire, rescue and EMS services since 1927. January 7, 2007 |
