Winlock Firefighters' Association
1931 Chevrolet Fire Truck

Purchased new by the Winlock Fire Department, this 1931 Chevrolet Fire Engine's first call to duty was the Cowlitz Mission fire near Toledo, Washington. Restoration was discussed several times over the years and in 1986 was begun in earnest.

The engine was stripped completely to the frame and sand blasted with equipment and materials donated by Tom Davis. Under the guidance of Winlock firefighter and professional body and fender man Vince Titus, the project progressed as time and manpower was available.

All metal was straightened, sanded and painted, and then reinstalled. While most of the brass portions you see now were chrome plated, it was discovered that brass was underneath this covering. A vigorous effort began to reclaim the brass. Firefighters took many brass pieces home with them and spent many hours polishing the brass.

Bing Orr donated the excellent gold lettering and pin striping. Firefighters and retired firefighters put in over 3,000 hours with completion accomplished in June of 1988.