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In 1928 the Altadena community was growing
and the Altadena Fire Protection District increased fire protection
by constructing a second fire station. As part of the young
Los Angeles County Fire Department, the station was numbered
“12” (the number previously had been issued to a
station in Signal Hill but was abandoned when that City formed
its own fire department). On May 4, 1928, a new Seagrave 750
gpm pumper was purchased and assigned as Engine 12. The price
of the new pumper was $12,500. It served the Altadena community
until the early 1950s. A windshield was added to Engine 12
following a 1938 law requiring them on all motor vehicles.
Eventually, the vehicle was retired and sold at auction. A
number of years later she was restored by a Redlands, California
firefighter.
In 1989 Engine 12 was purchased by the
County of Los Angeles Fire Museum Association (CLAFMA), using
funds raised from fire department personnel and private donations.
In 2000, at age 72, Engine 12 received a complete engine overhaul
at a cost of $7,000. This beautiful example of fire service
history is one of the Museum Association’s nicest pieces.
On New Years Day, 2001, she was featured in the Tournament
of Roses Parade, carrying the Mayor of Pasadena.
Engine 12’s Specifications
1928 Seagrave Model 6WT
Manufactured in Columbus, Ohio
Engine: 6 cylinders, 1,000+ cu. In. displacement (115 horsepower)
Transmission: 3 forward speeds, one reverse
Top speed: 55 mph
Empty weight: 17,000 pounds
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