The Raleigh Fire Museum and the City of Raleigh Fire Department own several pieces of surviving antique Raleigh fire engines. They are listed below, along with location, status, and ownership information. Photo credits include Mike Legeros and Lee Wilson.
Download this flyer (PDF) about the antiques. Or visit this Raleigh fire apparatus history site.
See also photos of RFD antiques from a 2011 photo shoot.
On Display
1905 American LaFrance steamer – Restored in 2012 to operational functionality.
Housed at Station 6 on Oberlin Road.
The steamer was relocated to Station 6 in summer 2023.
1926 American LaFrance pumper – Operational. Restored in 1990s.
Housed at Station 29 on Leesville Road.
The 1926 pumper was relocated to Station 29 in summer 2023.
1950 Mack pumper – Operational.
Housed at Station 19 on Spring Forest Road..
The 1950 pumper was relocated to Station 19 in spring 2025.
1982 Mack pumper – Operational
Ongoing restoration to match original paint, decals, and warning apparatus. Photo from prior to the addition of lettering and decals.
Housed at Station 28 on Forestville Road.
In Storage
These pieces of equipment are presently in storage and unavailable for
viewing:
1936 American LaFrance pumper – Owned by the Raleigh Fire Museum.
Donated to museum in 2014 by Margaret McCotter, in memory of husband Clifton, who privately owned the apparatus.
Cleaning, assessment, and restoration planned.
1978 Mack/1992 Pierce pumper – Owned by the Raleigh Fire Museum.
Donated to museum in 2024 by retired Raleigh Fire Captain Tim Duke.
This pumper was delivered to the Raleigh Fire Department in 1978. It served as Engine 16. After a collision in 1992, it was refurbished by Pierce. It returned to service as Engine 16 and later served as Engine 23 and as a reserve engine. It was retired in late 2005 or early 2006 and sold to Four Oaks Fire Department in Johnston County in February 2006. It was later retired from Four Oaks and purchased by Tim Duke.
Operational and used for special events and other activities.
1989 Pierce pumper – Owned by the Raleigh Fire Museum – Planned for conversion to caisson. Learn about the project.
Exterior components restored in 2014.
Donated to museum by city in 2017.
1988 Pierce Snorkel – Owned by the Raleigh Fire Museum.
Donated to museum by city in 2021.
Last updated August 16, 2024.
