I received this interesting message from Martin Nowak:
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Hi everyone,
I came across some fascinating information about retired Chicago Fire Department rigs that I thought would be worth sharing. These vehicles have quite the history, and some of them have been repurposed or seen unique service over the years.
First up is a former 6-3-3 model from 1954 built by FWD. This one originally served as an engine company but was later converted into a foam unit at Meigs Field. It’s definitely a piece of history!
Next is an old Academy engine from 1988—a Ford/E-One combination. This rig was never assigned to a regular engine company, which makes it somewhat of an anomaly in their fleet.
There’s also a former Engine 30 from 1969, manufactured by International and Pierce. It’s got that classic look that many enthusiasts love.
And then there's the iconic Tower Ladder 5 from 1988, another Federal/E-One creation standing tall at 95 feet.
One more notable mention is X-Tower 34 from 2002, a 100-foot Pierce model. Unfortunately, it was involved in an accident years ago, but it still holds a place in Chicago firefighting lore.
Lastly, we have a former Engine 115 from 1980, a Ford/E-One hybrid. It’s another example of how the department adapted its fleet over time.
Here are some photos taken by Squad546 that really bring these rigs to life:

*Caption: A classic example of a retired Chicago fire truck.*

*Caption: Another angle showcasing the design and functionality of these vehicles.*

*Caption: Close-up of the details that make these trucks both functional and historic.*

*Caption: Yet another view of the same rig, highlighting its features and condition.*

*Caption: A final shot of this impressive vehicle, capturing its essence and legacy.*
These photos really capture the charm and character of these retired fire engines. If you have any personal stories or connections to these rigs, feel free to share them—I’d love to hear more about their histories!
Take care,
Martin
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This message paints a vivid picture of the rich history behind these vehicles and gives us a glimpse into the evolution of firefighting equipment in Chicago. Let me know if anyone has any thoughts or additional insights!
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