A unique collection of over a dozen vintage fire trucks – spanning nearly a century of American firefighting history – will be auctioned off with no reserve by RM Sotheby’s in Miami on Friday, February 27th. The vehicles come from the American LaFrance Corporate Collection, a legacy of one of the nation’s most iconic emergency vehicle manufacturers, which operated from 1873 to 2014.
A Century of Firefighting Evolution
The auction includes a remarkable range of apparatuses, from 19th-century hand-drawn pumpers to mid-20th-century motorized behemoths. The collection was previously on loan to the North Charleston Fire Museum, which is now closing, making this a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts.
The oldest piece, a hand-drawn pumper from 1858 built by Button & Blake (later American LaFrance), represents a pivotal moment in firefighting technology. Its innovative “anti-pulsation chamber” ensured a consistent water flow, a critical improvement over earlier designs. This piece is estimated to sell for $100,000 to $150,000.
From Brass and Gold to Chrome and Steel
The collection charts the transition from horse-drawn to motorized fire engines. A standout example is the 1911 American LaFrance Type 5 Double Tank Combination, finished in the striking livery of the Liberty Fire Company No. 5. This gas-powered truck, equipped with a 9.4-liter engine and lavish gold-leaf detailing, embodies the early 20th century’s fascination with both firefighting and opulence; its estimated value is between $100,000 and $200,000.
The 1956 American LaFrance 700 Series ‘775-PJO’ Pumper represents a shift towards modern designs. This cab-forward model, one of over 3,000 built, helped standardize the look of fire trucks for decades. It is expected to fetch between $15,000 and $25,000.
A Rare Automotive Anomaly
Perhaps the most unusual lot is the sole surviving 1911 American LaFrance Type 8 Roadster, the only passenger car ever manufactured by the company. Though the firm built fewer than 25, this vehicle is believed to have been used by American LaFrance executives and will likely sell for $300,000 to $500,000.
This auction is not merely a sale of vehicles; it is a snapshot of American industrial history, showcasing the evolution of firefighting technology and the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Whether you’re a collector, a historian, or simply curious, the RM Sotheby’s listings offer a glimpse into the world of vintage fire apparatuses and the communities they once served.
