Historic Engine No.4 Restoration

The Flossmoor Volunteer Fire Corporation (a 501c3 charitable organization) is having restoration work done on our 1947 Mack Fire Engine. We purchased this vehicle new in 1947 and sold it to the Village for $1 for purposes of insuring and maintaining the fire engine. It remained in-service until 1979 when it was retired, and the Village sold it back to the Volunteer fire department for $1. At that time, we had some exterior restoration work done (body work and paint repairs) to make the outside look like it did when it was originally delivered.

We are now in the process of having the next round of restoration completed as part of the popular Classic car restoration show "FantomWorks" which airs on the Velocity channel. This work will include extensive engine repairs, braking, steering, interior trim and paint, gauges, and electrical system replacement.

This restoration work has an approximate cost of $40,000 to $50,000. Any funds raised that exceed this amount will be utilized to complete optional restoration work, like making the old fire pump function again, until all funds raised are exhausted.

Since it has been retired from service, generations of children have enjoyed sitting in, climbing on, and riding in this vintage piece of Flossmoor’s history. It is our goal to make old Engine #4 safe to drive and operate for the next 69 years so many more generations of our children can have the same experience. If the funds are raised, and FantomWorks can complete the work in time, we’re hoping to showcase Engine #4 at our annual 4th of July children’s parade this year.

Since the engine is owned by the Volunteer Fire Corporation and not the Village of Flossmoor, only donations will support its maintenance and these restoration efforts. We ask for your financial support to help us achieve this goal. Let’s keep this piece of our history alive!