In search of a special fire truck

	Contributed photo Have you seen this fire truck? (Click for larger image)

I am the ex-chief with the West Hempstead Fire Department on Long Island, New York and we are looking for our first fire engine. It was a 1927 Seagrave “6AT” 600-gallon pump T hose cart, serial number 49540. It had a 15-H 6-cylinder engine, serial number 3-15H605, and pump serial # 6826 Manister 4 stage.

We took delivery on August 16, 1927 and it served us well until 1946. We then sold it to our brother department in upstate, Yulan, New York. There it again served well till the early 1960s. They then sold it to the Mill Rift Fire Department in eastern Pennsylvania. They kept it several years and have no record of who they sold it to. Senior members of their department say it may have gone down south.

It is unique because it was in an accident in 1936 and new “modern” rolled edge fenders, windshield, electric siren and relocation of the bell and warning fights was done, as shown in the picture of it competing in a firematic tournament in the late 1930s.

Any information or even a possible lead from any of the area fire companies would be greatly appreciated. Perhaps someone has seen it in a local parade or maybe in a field or behind a barn. Anything would be helpful in this chapter of our departments’ history that several members before me have been unable to solve. I would appreciate your help.

Ex- Chief Karl W. Riesterer Jr.
129 Bedell Avenue
Hempstead, New York 11550
e-mail cc00kgo@yahoo.com