1938 Ford-Hale

(1925 Hahn, 1938 Ford)

At the February 1938 business meeting, a motion was made and passed that the Department purchase a new pumper. Hale, Hahn, and Howe salesman made their sales pitch to the Department that included plans and an approximate price for the new piece of apparatus. On March 14th, 1938, after a discussion a motion was made by William Steeley and seconded by Earl Moyer that the Department purchase a Ford V8 chasis and a 2nd Ford motor for the pump and equipment from Hale. Total cost of the truck being $2,642.37. Come early June, the new pumper was delivered to the Department. Shortly after delivery, the Ford was put through "the usual" tests which included driving up the hill on Bethlehem Pike and pumping a stream of water for four hours without interruption. Both of which, were accustom for the time. A formal housing to be had in September which Perkasie and Silverdale were invited to attend. 

In 1948, a hose reel for the Ford was purchased and mounted for the cost of $75.00. The above photo can be dated sometime between delivery in 1938 and 1948 since there is no hose reel mounted.

By 1960 the fire service was advancing and more sophisicated and technologically advanced apparatus were being manufactured. At the February meeting, Chief Hufhangle recommended replacement of the Ford. With a new engine purchased (1961 International John Bean) the Ford was sold in March of 1961 for the sum of $375.00.

In 1998 the Department was presented with an opportunity to purchase back the Ford pumper. A motion was made and passed to have members go to look at the truck to see if it would be a worthwhile purchase. During the August meeting the Department decided to purchase back the pumper for the sum of $1,700.00 and was picked up from Sassamansville, PA.

 After many years the Department decided in 2023 to finally begin to restore the Ford, which had been stored in the original 1800s firehouse on W. Church Street. Be sure to check out our progress on the restoration! 

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