Original Snorkel to be restored by Smeal

From The DesPlaines Valley News:

A historic piece of firefighting history has been saved from being scrapped. The vintage Bedford Park Fire Department Snorkel, which was reportedly on its way to the scrap yard, has found a new home and a second chance.

Fire Chief Sean Maloy confirmed that the truck—originally built in 1959 as the first original Snorkel—will be donated to Smeal Fire Apparatus in Snyder, Nebraska. “They’ve promised to restore it completely to how it looked when it was delivered to Bedford Park on March 31, 1960,” Maloy said. “It’s going to be a real treasure for them.”

The company will showcase the Snorkel in their museum and take it to various fire apparatus shows. Smeal recently acquired the rights to the Snorkel name from LTI in June, and they plan to begin producing new models soon. “They want to use this original truck as a key part of their marketing strategy,” Maloy explained. “It’s a powerful symbol of their brand’s legacy.”

Maloy emphasized that the Bedford Park name and original markings will remain intact. “We’re sending them photos of the original so they can make sure every detail is accurate,” he added. While the village will receive just $1 for the truck, the cost of repairs is estimated at around $60,000. Despite that, the deal was seen as a win for the community.

“The village board was thrilled to see the truck get a good home,” Maloy said. “This is more than just a vehicle—it’s a piece of our local history, and I’m glad it’s going to be preserved properly.”

Interestingly, the first Snorkel was originally converted from a tree trimmer. However, the first original model was produced by Pierce in 1959 for the Chicago Fire Department. “For some reason, they didn’t keep it, and it ended up in Bedford Park,” Maloy shared. “I heard they got a great deal on it.” For two decades, the Snorkel served both in firefighting operations and in local parades.

Chief Maloy also thanked the newspaper for playing a role in helping to secure the truck’s future.

Thanks, Drew

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