Childhood dreams on wheels: the American LaFrance Corporate Collection

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Honk honk, here comes the fire brigade. Who didn’t dream of it as a child? Playing with toy fire engines, watching in awe as the big machines rushed out with wailing sirens. For some, that fascination never fades — especially later in life, when the means exist to turn such a dream into reality.

One of the most evocative names from the pre-war era is American LaFrance. While some classic fire engines are transformed into so-called two-seater racetrucks, others are carefully restored and cherished as rolling heritage. RM Sotheby’s will soon present a remarkable collection at auction: the American LaFrance Corporate Collection. All offered without reserve. No fewer than twelve different fire engines together illustrate more than half a century of technological progress, from a steam-powered machine dating back to 1904 to a post-war model from 1956.

The name American LaFrance rings familiar to many. The brand’s origins trace back to 1832, when John F. Rogers began building hand- and steam-powered fire pumps in New York. In 1873, brothers Asa and Truckson LaFrance started producing steam fire engines. In 1891, their company merged with the American Fire Engine Company to form the International Fire Engine Company. Following bankruptcy in 1903, American LaFrance was officially established as its successor. From 1910 onward, the company produced motorized fire engines and grew into a leading manufacturer with a broad range of vehicles and firefighting equipment. After World War II, the 700 Series with its cab-forward design became iconic. Due to changing ownership and declining sales, production moved to Virginia in 1985 under Figgie International. In 2014, the curtain finally fell and production was permanently discontinued.

The collection now offered formed part of the company’s headquarters and was used for promotional and marketing purposes. These are therefore not only beautifully restored vehicles, but also pieces directly linked to the corporate identity of American LaFrance itself.

We highlight three absolute showstoppers from the collection.

1904 American LaFrance Cosmopolitan Steam Fire Engine

Estimate: $100,000 – $200,000
For enthusiasts of early engineering, without doubt the highlight. This beautifully restored, compact steam pumper dates from the pioneering years of organized firefighting. Small enough to be maneuvered by hand through narrow streets, yet richly adorned with gold and nickel detailing. It is a rare surviving example marking the transition from manpower to mechanical propulsion.

1919 American LaFrance-Ford Model T Chemical Car

Estimate: $50,000 – $70,000
An intriguing outlier, based on a Ford Model T and converted by American LaFrance into a compact ‘chemical car’ with twin chemical tanks and full firefighting equipment. Approximately 900 Model Ts were purchased directly from dealers and modified at the time. This charmingly restored example, once operated by a small municipality, combines accessibility with historical significance.

1920 American LaFrance Type 75 Triple Combination

Estimate: $80,000 – $120,000
For many, the quintessential image of the classic childhood fire engine. This robust machine was equipped with a powerful six-cylinder engine and a pump rated at 750 gallons per minute, designed to deliver water, foam, and chemicals. The model became an icon of early motorized firefighting — imposing, functional, and unmistakably full of character.

And this is only a small selection. The full catalogue charts the technical and stylistic evolution of a marque that for decades stood synonymous with firefighting in America.

Which would be your favourite — and which one is still missing from your collection?

Details:

• RM Sotheby’s Miami Sale
• Date: 27 February 2026
• Location: The Biltmore Hotel Coral Gables (Miami), Coral Gables, FL, US
• View all listings >>

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