On Tuesday, we highlighted the inclusion of the **Darien-Woodridge Fire District** on our site. Among the apparatus displayed at Station 2 was an unusual antique fire engine with a rich and storied past. Jack Connors has shared some fascinating details about this vintage piece, along with a few images to give you a closer look.
The engine in question is a **1949 Oshkosh/Howe** pumper, equipped with a **1,000-GPM pump** and a **1,200-gallon water tank**. The chassis is an **Oshkosh Model W-2201**, bearing serial number **3541**, while the Howe body carries its own serial number: **HR-10-7961**. This combination of Oshkosh and Howe makes it a rare find, especially for a unit of this age.
*This image shows the 1949 Oshkosh Howe engine as lettered for the Belmont Fire District. Jack Connors collection*
The engine first served at the **Argonne National Laboratory** in Argonne, Illinois. It later moved to **Grandview Park**, which was eventually annexed by **Oak Lawn**. Eventually, it found its way to the **Belmont Fire District**, which later merged into the **Darien-Woodridge Fire District**. Today, the engine bears the Darien-Woodridge emblem on the side door, though the original **Belmont Fire Protection District** name still appears on the hood — a nice touch that preserves its history.
*The engine currently has a Darien-Woodridge Fire District decal replacing the Belmont Fire Protection District name on the door. The Belmont name still resides on the hood. Jack Connors collection*
It's always exciting to see how these historic pieces continue to serve or are preserved, even after decades of use. This particular engine is not just a vehicle — it’s a living piece of fire service history. Thanks to Jack Connors for sharing this great story and these wonderful photos.
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