La Salle's Antique Ladder Truck
From Frontline Hero to Historic Treasure
La Salle’s antique 1928 American-LaFrance ladder truck is on full display on Fifth Street in La Salle, representing an important piece of the town’s history. Once a state-of-the-art machine, the truck was used for nearly 50 years and remains a source of pride in the community.
One-of-a-Kind Firefighting Machine
Built by American LaFrance, the 1928 Type 31 aerial featured a 65-foot wooden ladder with tiller steering, spring-assisted lifting, and hand-cranked extension. Purchased new for $15,250, the truck represented cutting-edge technology at the time.
Nearly 50 Years of Service
The truck served as La Salle’s primary aerial ladder from 1928 until 1976. For nearly five decades, it protected the community, responding to fires alongside both paid and volunteer firefighters, making it one of the longest-serving aerial ladders in the region.
An Iconic TV Appearance
In 1975, a film crew visited La Salle to document the 1928 LaFrance aerial truck for use in a television commercial for Mr. Coffee. The commercial was part of a larger advertising campaign featuring baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. Today, the commercial stands as a unique piece of digital history, preserving the legacy of the machine.
Carefully Preserved
After retirement, the truck never left the ownership of the fire department. It was moved between fire stations and city facilities, ensuring it remained protected and available for public viewing while preserving its connection to the community. In 2017, when storage challenges threatened the truck’s future, local leaders, firefighters, businesses, and residents worked together to build a permanent home.
A New Home at Fire Station No. 2
Completed in 2018, Fire Station No. 2 was built specifically to display and protect the historic ladder truck. The climate-controlled facility allows visitors to view the apparatus up close while ensuring its preservation for future generations. The display is located directly across from La Salle Fire Station No. 1 at 1227 5th Street.
A Lasting Symbol of La Salle History
Although the truck no longer responds to emergencies, it remains a symbol of dedication, innovation, and community spirit. Today, it stands as a reminder of the firefighters who served aboard it and the residents who worked together to preserve its history.
