In 1911, Bismarck received a shiny, new fire engine—to be exact, a “combination hose and chemical (horse-drawn) wagon.”

Everyone was excited. The wagon was touted as “one of the best that may be had.” It was equipped with two light extension ladders, as well as axes, bars, “and other apparatus,” and was painted a very bright red.

On this day, as the city glowed with pride, Chief of Police MacDonald, Shedd Lambert and George Fortune took the wagon out for a spin.

In the process, the wagon skidded against the curb and sprung an axle, tossing its riders out of its seats. However, with no injuries to the men and little else to the wagon, they avoided disaster.

Meanwhile, the new fire team was growing so used to their new ride that they appeared to “take delight in getting to the scene of a blaze as soon as possible.”

By Sarah Walker

Sources:
Bismarck Daily Tribune, Saturday, Feb. 25, 1911

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