ITEM E491

By Kent Parrish

The progression of American fire apparatus since the romantic horse-drawn era has truly been amazing. The elementary steam engines and wagons of yesteryear have evolved into a multitude of technologically advanced modern rigs. The roles of today's fire service have expanded to include Emergency Medical Services, Hazardous Materials, Urban Search & Rescue, and Wildland. These modern disciplines required a new breed of specialty apparatus and even the classic fire truck has transformed into multi-purpose rescue-pumpers, pumper-tankers, and an array of aerial trucks. An industry long dominated by legendary names is led by a new generation that includes Pierce, Rosenbauer, KME, Ferrara, E-One, and many others. The old guard that ultimately failed to modernize, inexplicably chose to leave the fire apparatus industry, or simply caved under bad business include the likes of American LaFrance, FMC, Grumman, Hahn, Mack, Maxim, and Young. Since 1980, there have been no less than 100 companies manufacturing, outfitting, or converting a vehicle for fire service use. This photo-heavy history focuses on the highlights of fire apparatus development during the 1980s and dives deeper into the progression of modern fire apparatus from 1990 to today.

Softbound, 8.5'' x 11''