The Niles-Herald Spectator recently published an article (just be mindful of the autoplay video with ads) focusing on the restoration and return of the first fire engine ever acquired by the Skokie Fire Department. This historic piece of firefighting equipment holds significant historical value, especially considering its origins dating back to a time when Abraham Lincoln was still alive and the Chicago Cubs hadn’t yet won their first World Series.
SKOKIE — As the town's original fire engine was constructed, Abraham Lincoln was still among the living; when it last saw action during a blaze, the Chicago Cubs had just claimed victory in a World Series. Interestingly, the area we now know as Skokie was then called Niles Centre, a fact clearly illustrated by the golden lettering on the old red pumper that spells out the former name of the town.
This fascinating story of the pumper and its journey through time is largely thanks to the dedication and passion of Skokie Fire Lieutenant Ron Smith for local history. About five years ago, Smith played a pivotal role in reclaiming this historic artifact, the very first fire engine—known as the Rumsey Pumper—that Niles Centre utilized when it relied on a volunteer fire brigade.
The Rumsey Pumper played a crucial role in the massive fire of 1910, which devastated half of the business district in the village, west of Lincoln Avenue. During this incident, Niles Centre realized they needed additional support from neighboring towns, prompting them to recognize that their existing pumper was no longer adequate for a rapidly growing community. From 1881 until around 1912 or 1913, Niles Centre employed this pumper before acquiring their first motorized pump in 1914 and selling the engine to Mount Prospect for $60.
Mount Prospect initially put the pumper to use for several years before it found itself showcased at the 1933 World’s Fair in an exhibit dedicated to the history of firefighting equipment. Afterward, the pumper was rediscovered and reacquired by Mount Prospect. Some light restoration work was undertaken, but unfortunately, the pumper eventually fell into disrepair and remained neglected over time.
Built in Seneca Falls, New York in 1865, the Rumsey Pumper was purchased by Niles Centre in 1881 after realizing that a simple bucket brigade approach was insufficient for combating larger fires. Operating this engine required ten men—five on each side—to pump approximately 60 gallons of water per minute at its peak efficiency. Weighing around 700 pounds, the pumper had two primary methods of operation: either connecting it to a cistern located on every property at the time or manually filling it with water from tubs stored inside. A photograph housed in the Skokie Heritage Museum captures the image of the first volunteer fire department of Niles Centre standing alongside the first pumper.
Over the years, the Rumsey Pumper underwent numerous transformations and storied events, making its journey one filled with historical significance and personal connection for those who cherish these pieces of heritage.
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