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Southbridge Engine Co 1

This article is a direct street report from our correspondent and has not been edited by the 1st Responder newsroom.

Over the past six decades Engine 1 in Southbridge has operated some unique apparatus. In 1954 the department took delivery of a classic open cab Pirsch 1000 GPM pumper. Members rode the rear step as this truck only had seating for two. That apparatus carried 500 gallons of water.

The Pirsch was replaced by a 1981 Hahn 1250 GPM pumper. This apparatus was an upgrade from the predecessor because it had a covered cab and 700 gallons of water on board. The pump was also a little larger providing 1250 GPM. The jump-seat was open which was common during that era.

A Spartan ERV MetroStar pumper became Engine 1 in 2015 with all of the modern technology and safety provisions. The specifications on the current unit were increased again with 750 gallons of water and 30 gallons of foam on board. The pump was bumped up to 1500 GPM.

The Pirsch and Hahn apparatus remain in the area. Owned and maintained by a private collector they have made multiple appearances at the Tri-State Muster in Webster Mass.

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CHUCK LOWECorrespondent

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