1915 Ford Model T

There is no denying the outsized shadow that Fords humble little Model T cast on our society. Produced at a furious pace at factories from Detroit to Argentina, to Australia, the Model T did so much more than bring motorized transportation for the masses it was a versatile, adaptable, seemingly universal machine finding homes on farms, in factories, and countless commercial roles. The Ts affordability not only put private citizens on wheels, but it did the same for municipalities and importantly fire departments.

With each year of Model T production, Ford offered a full range of factory body styles, but always with the option of a bare chassis for commercial buyers. Fire apparatus manufacturers like American LaFrance and others quickly developed options to outfit the T (and its heavy-duty TT counterpart) for firefighting duty. The Fords low cost of entry was particularly appealing to small-town departments with modest budgets, many of which were still relying on horse-drawn apparatus when our featured example was built.

This marvelous 1915 Model T is an exquisitely restored example of an early T fire truck, equipped for fast attack duty with an American LaFrance chemical tank body and short-wheelbase chassis. This truck wears an older, beautifully preserved restoration with extraordinary detail. Finished in the requisite bright red, this T is adorned with numerous period accessories and equipment. The front end is standard early T, with a brass radiator and flowing front fenders. The cowl is flanked by dual lamps, and topped with a hand-crank siren, giant search lamp, and a brass bell. The running boards carry highly polished brass Maddock extinguishers and a super cool foot-operated bell. Behind the twin bucket seats sits the wire hose basket, a chemical tank, lanterns, and a ladder rack carrying a period correct wooden ladder, of course. From stem to stern, the jewel-like details fascinate, with seemingly more to find with every pass around this wonderful truck.

An occasional challenge of collecting historic fire trucks is the space the larger models require but with this jewel of a Model T, theres little such concern. Modest in size, yet big in personality, this lovingly restored ALF Model T will undoubtedly capture the imagination of all those who encounter it.

Offers welcome and trades considered.