On Tuesday, we briefly touched upon the inclusion of the Darien-Woodridge Fire District on our website. Among the apparatus showcased at Station 2 is a truly unique piece of firefighting history—a vintage engine that has seen its fair share of action over the years. Jack Connors generously shared some fascinating details and even provided a couple of photos to help bring this story to life.
This particular engine is a 1949 Oshkosh/Howe model equipped with a powerful 1,000-gallon-per-minute (GPM) pump and a massive 1,200-gallon water tank. The Oshkosh chassis is an impressive Model W-2201, bearing the serial number 3541. Meanwhile, the Howe serial number is listed as HR-10-7961.
As you can see from the accompanying images, this vehicle has undergone quite the transformation throughout its career. The first photo captures the engine as it appeared during its time with the Belmont Fire District, complete with the original lettering. In contrast, the second image highlights how the engine looks today under the Darien-Woodridge Fire District banner. While the current district’s logo adorns the doors, the legacy of the Belmont Fire Protection District remains proudly displayed on the hood.
Interestingly enough, this engine began its journey not far from Chicago, serving at the prestigious Argonne National Laboratory in Argonne, Illinois. From there, it moved to Grandview Park, Illinois, before being annexed into Oak Lawn. Eventually, it found a new home with the Belmont Fire District, which later merged into the Darien-Woodridge Fire District.
Reflecting on these changes, it’s clear that this engine has been more than just a tool—it’s a testament to the evolution of firefighting in the region. Its storied past speaks volumes about resilience and adaptability, qualities that continue to define the men and women who protect our communities. I’m grateful to Jack for sharing such rich historical insights; they add depth and context to our understanding of these vital resources.
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