The Doylestown Fire Company (DFC) is celebrating the 100th year anniversary of its classic fire truck, the Ahrens “Fox” Pumper (DFC Engine 19-3). The “Fox” Pumper was purchased from the Ahrens Fox Company of Cincinnati, Ohio in June, 1923 at a cost of $13,400. It was commissioned for service to the Doylestown community in December 1923.
DFC’s “Fox”, along with a twin 1923 Fox destined for service by the Lambertville, NJ Fire Company, were shipped via the Reading Railroad to Doylestown in October, 1923. DFC’s “Fox” served as a key firefighting apparatus protecting the Doylestown Community for over 50 years, with its last fire response being the fire at the old Borough School on February 23rd, 1973.
Although the “Fox” remains operable today, with a 1,000 gallons per minute pumping capability, it is currently relegated for deployment at special community events.
Throughout 2023, DFC is recognizing this milestone anniversary with the display of the Fox at various public events, the Memorial Day Parade, the July 15th Dusk to Dawn Car Show, the October Fire Prevention Open House and Santa’s Doylestown arrival.
A special Mercer “Fox” tile has been commissioned and will be available for purchase. The public is cordially invited to join in this Centennial celebration and visit the “Fox,” along with DFC’s full line of firefighting apparatus, at its 68 Shewell Avenue location.
For further information, visit their website, www.doylestownfirecompany.org.
PHOTO CAP: The Ahrens “Fox” Pumper (DFC Engine 19-3).