Historical Society's 'Salute to Firefighters' event to include 1902 steam fire engine

FALLBROOK – The Fallbrook Historical Society learned just last week that a unique 1902 American horse-drawn steam fire engine will be part of the ‘Salute to Firefighters’ on Saturday, July 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the museum grounds, 1730 Hill Street, (Rocky Crest Road and Hill Street). An impressive collection of antique fire trucks from throughout the county will be on display, including Fallbrook’s own “Alfie,” with the display being crowned by the dazzling 1902 pumper.

This American Steam Fire Engine, built in 1902, served the City of Reno for 20 years and then briefly served the Southern Pacific Railroad. It went missing for over 60 years before the rusted remains were discovered by retired Fire Captain Dave Hubert and his wife, Barbara, in an old barn in Fallbrook! The Huberts painstakingly restored and refurbished the fire engine and it is today fully operational, pumping 1,000 gallons per minute.

The Fallbrook Historical Society and North County Fire Protection District, partners in the ‘Salute to Firefighters’ event, are honored that the 1902 engine will be a part of the July 20 event. Society vice president Dode Martin and retired fire captain Fred Ragland were instrumental in making this happen.

Also included in the ‘Salute to Firefighters’ will be Smokey Bear and Pluggie (a radio-controlled fire hydrant), and a fire information booth with gifts for children. North County Fire’s newest engine will also be on display and visitors will get an up-close look at all the latest fire-fighting technology.

A brief slide presentation entitled, “The History of Firefighting in Fallbrook” will be presented at noon, along with remarks from current and past Fallbrook fire chiefs. The program will end with a ‘Salute to Firefighters’ – a community expression of gratitude to local firefighters – past and present – for their service and commitment to residents’ safety and well-being.

Refreshments will be served at the end of the program.

All of the historical society’s buildings – the Pittenger House, the Museum, the Ford Room, the Rock and Mineral Room, and the Barn – will be open for visitors and docents will be on hand to guide visitors and answer questions.

The event is open to the general public and free of charge.