The Adamstown Fire Company has proudly completed the preservation of its 1919 Model T fire truck—restoring its ability to pump and flow water more than a century after it first entered service. This project, achieved without any cost to the fire company, relied entirely on the skill, support, and generosity of members and local businesses.

Originally equipped with a Howe 2-cylinder piston pump and a 3-cylinder mechanical pump—both dating to the 1890s—the apparatus required extensive reconstruction. When the pump was transferred from a horse-drawn cart to the Model T in 1919, its original linkage and operating controls had been discarded. Former Fire Chief Merle Martin and Life Member Robert “Bob” Achey led the effort to recreate these components, restore the pump system, and revive the separate motor that powers it.

The restoration uncovered significant damage, including a bent connecting rod, a deformed piston, and a broken leather-wrapped cast iron clutch. With replacement parts unavailable, several local companies stepped in to custom-fabricate new brass and cast iron components, rebuild mechanical systems, and provide machining, welding, coating, and finishing services.

After months of work, the team successfully reassembled the motor, clutch, and pump, bringing the antique unit back to operating condition. Although it will not return to emergency use, the fire company celebrates the project as an invaluable piece of Adamstown’s firefighting history—preserved for future generations.

The Adamstown Fire Company extends sincere thanks to all businesses and volunteers involved, and especially to Merle Martin and Bob Achey for their remarkable dedication throughout the project.