Help Us Save a Piece of Firefighting History!

Preserve the Past – Inspire the Future

The Reading Area Firefighters Museum in Reading, Pennsylvania has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity… but we need your help to make it a reality.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the museum was able to secure the purchase of a rare 1911 American LaFrance Type 5 Double Tank Combination fire engine, an incredible piece of firefighting history. This beautifully preserved engine represents the courage, technology, and community spirit of early 20th-century firefighting — and it deserves a home where its story can be shared for generations to come. This engine was the very first motorized fire apparatus in Berks County and was purchased by the Liberty Fire Co. No. 5 of Reading, which just happens to be the old station the fire museum is located in. Just think 115 years later the truck will be backed in through the doors it used to respond to the blazes of the early 1900's

About the Fire Engine:

This historic fire engine is featured here:

https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/mi26/lots/r0028-1911-american-lafrance-type-5-double-tank-combination/

Built in 1911, this American LaFrance model is more than just a vehicle. It’s a symbol of bravery, innovation, and community service. A true piece of Americana that those who answered the call to service would have depended on.

Why We Need Your Support

While we were able to successfully secure the purchase through donated funds, there is still a funding shortfall that threatens our ability to bring the engine home and show it for public display. The museum was closed for over 10 months last year due to HVAC replacement and this hurt their source of income.

Your contribution will help with:

✨ Transportation and secure storage

✨ Display preparation for museum exhibition

✨ Educational materials and programming

What This Means to Our Community

This fire engine isn’t just metal and wood — it's a living testament to our local history, the legacy of firefighters who protected families and businesses throughout Berks County, and an educational treasure for future generations.

With this engine as part of our collection, visitors will be able to:

‍ See firsthand how early firefighters worked with the technology of their time

Learn about the evolution of firefighting equipment and techniques

Inspire kids and adults to explore history, engineering, and community service

How You Can Help

We’re asking for donations of any size — every dollar brings us closer to our goal and ensures this historic fire engine finds a permanent home where it can be appreciated, studied, and celebrated.

Please donate and share this campaign with friends, family, and anyone who loves history, firefighting heritage, or community museums.

Let’s bring this legendary fire engine back home to Reading!

Thank you for your support, your generosity, and your belief in preserving our shared heritage.