Steamer Returns to Reading

By KEN SNYDER, Correspondent | November 03, 2020 | PENNSYLVANIA

Story No. 110320103

Photo by KEN SNYDERVolunteers off load the steamer.

Photo by KEN SNYDERVolunteers push the steamer into its new home.

Photo by KEN SNYDERThis was the 1909 American La France steamer used by the Union F Co. 13 of Reading.

Reading, PA - On August 15th, volunteers met up at the Shenandoah Historical Fire Society Museum to assist in loading a horse-drawn steamer onto a flatbed trailer for a trip back to Reading. This steamer had been on loan to their museum and was used by the Union Fire Company No. 13 of Reading. The steamer was built in 1909 by the American LaFrance Fire Engine Co. of Elmira, NY. It was known as a Metropolitan steamer and had the serial number of 3296. The 'Unies' used this steamer in the city up into the 1930's. After its 50 mile trip, the steamer arrived at its new home in the Reading Area Fire Museum at 501 S. 5th St. After dislodging, awaiting Reading area volunteers then pushed the steamer into the museum's open bay.