Mich. city celebrates fire engine’s 100th birthday

Officials honored the centennial at the Richmond Volunteer Fire Department open house, celebrating the retired engine’s legacy in service, parades and community events

October 17, 2025 08:25 AM

By Katelyn Larese
Voice News

RICHMOND, Mich. — The city of Richmond recently celebrated the 100th birthday of one of its most treasured pieces of firefighting history: A 1925 American LaFrance fire truck.

The historic apparatus was placed into service in 1925, marking the beginning of its invaluable role in emergency response in the city. It served the community for many years, responding to countless alarms, saving lives and symbolizing the bravery and dedication of the city’s firefighters.

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The Richmond Volunteer Fire Department celebrated the milestone on Oct. 5, the same day as its annual open house event.

The Richmond City Council passed a resolution recognizing the 100th birthday of the 1925 American LaFrance fire truck. State Rep. Jaime Greene, R- Richmond, also presented a special tribute from the state of Michigan in recognition of the milestone.

“Though it has since retired from front-line duty, this remarkable fire truck remains a beloved part of many parades and community events,” the resolution reads.

“The preservation and celebration of this fire truck honors not only the machine itself but also the generations of firefighters and community members who maintained and supported it.”

How old is your oldest rig? How old is the oldest in-service rig in your department?

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