The Capreol Fire Fighters Club’s 1929 Gotfredson Bickle fire truck, nicknamed Old Betsy, is slated to receive a rebuilt starter and alternator to help keep the ol’ girl running.
The classic truck hasn’t been used operationally for quite some time, but still makes ceremonial appearances, such as during last year’s funeral procession for local firefighter Mike Frost. A collection of photographs of the procession can be found by clicking here.
“These guys jumped at the chance to help us out, and that’s not forgotten,” Sudbury Professional Fire Fighters Association president Mike Squarzolo told Sudbury.com of Capreol volunteer firefighters participating in the procession with their classic fire truck.
“We like to support community initiatives, and they’ve been incredibly supportive to us.”
The association donated $5,000 from their general fund toward the Capreol Fire Fighters Club, which maintains the classic vehicle. A novelty check presentation marked the occasion on Nov. 15.
“We fundraise to keep it on the road,” Capreol fire hall Capt. Scott Robinson told Sudbury.com of the truck, adding they’re grateful for the association’s contribution.
“It goes to many functions, and it puts our face out there,” Robinson said of the truck. “It puts Station 18 (Capreol) out there, and it just shows the dedication of the station and the firefighters to keep things going, keep the history rolling.”
The Capreol Fire Fighters Club isn’t the only organization to maintain a 1929 Bickle, with the Hamilton District Fire Museum keeping a 1929 Bickle named “Bertha,” which was originally used at the Dundas Fire Department. Click here for a news report of a 1929 Bickle pumper making its return to a Vancouver fire hall in 2017.
According to driving.ca, Bickles were the “Canadian special,” built by Bickle Fire Engines of Woodstock, and came at a cost of $14,600.
Tyler Clarke covers city hall and political affairs for Sudbury.com.
