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The Old Faithful Mission
The Old Faithful Mission
The mission of Old Faithful is to share unique pieces of New Canaan's history with the community through the preservation of antique fire engines. Through this preservation, the trucks continue to answer the call to serve many local organizations and spread joy to all.
The Old Faithful Antique Fire Engine Company, a registered nonprofit organization, helps support local charitable organizations, community events and private gatherings while providing unique entertainment and a look into the past with an array of antique fire engines.
History
History
Old Faithful is a registered nonprofit organization. Donations from the membership and the public serve to finance its activities and maintenance of the antique trucks. The Old Faithful Antique Fire Engine Company is also recognized as providing an important, unique service to the community and receives grants from various local funding organizations.
Membership is open and new members are warmly welcomed. No special skills are required and driver training is offered. Safety is paramount and Old Faithful maintains a safe driving record.
Old Faithful at Grace House, NCCS
DuVal family home
The Old Faithful Antique Fire Engine Association consists of two valuable assets. One is a group of mostly New Canaan residents, many of them past or present members of the New Canaan Volunteer Fire Company but includes people from all walks of life. The second is four antique fire engines, fully restored and maintained by our members. Two of the engines, a 1922 Seagrave pumper and the 1953 Ward LaFrance, were in active service in New Canaan and have intrinsic historical value. The Ward LaFrance actually replaced the Seagrave in 1953. Since being taken out of active service in the early 1980s, it has had its tank and hose bed removed and the space converted to hold benches for the safety and gratification of the people who revel in riding in it.
The original "Old Faithful" a 1924 American LaFrance and "Old Reluctance" a 1928 Seagrave are cherished pieces from our founders, Phil DuVal's personal collection. It was his passion for antique fire trucks and the fire service in New Canaan that inspired the organization we have become. Through his vision and generous donations these trucks continue to serve and inspire the community.
"Old Faithful" 1924 American LaFrance
"Engine 104" 1953 Ward LaFrance
"Engine 1" 1922 Seagrave
"Old Reluctance" 1928 Seagrave
What We Do
What We Do
Old Faithful has evolved throughout the years as the organization has grown. Initially the personal interest of several fire-engine buffs, the mission was to acquire and restore old trucks. Some money was needed, plus lots of storage space, together with the mechanical talents to fix the engines and refurbish the rusted bodies.
Over time those challenges have receded and the Company has turned increasingly to helping the local community. Today the engines are used for ceremonial parades marking major events such as July 4th, Memorial Day and Halloween. More importantly, they are used to give rides to and provide entertainment for children and parents alike at local events, including:
Frogtown Fair at New Canaan Country School
Fall Fair at the Nature Center
May Fair at St Mark’s Church
Exchange Club Christmas Tree Lot
New Canaan Museum & Historical Society Ice Cream Social
St. Mark's Nursery School and Picnic
New Canaan Community Preschool Picnic
Additionally, individuals request Old Faithful for weddings, birthday parties and family reunions, usually using Engine #104 and on occasion Old Faithful itself.
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