BOCA RATON
FIRE ENGINE NO. 1

By  Mike Miller October 8, 2025

Boca Raton Fire Engine No. 1, nicknamed "Old Betsy," is a 1925 American LaFrance fire engine. It served as the city's first fire fighting apparatus.

Now a historic landmark, it appears in parades and fire safety programs. Housed at Boca Raton Fire Station 3, it draws visitors to see its restored design.

The engine marks the early firefighting efforts of Boca Raton citizens.

Boca Raton Fire Engine No. 1, "Old Betsy"

Boca Raton formed its fire department in 1925 with Ordinance No. 72. Guy Bender became the first chief.  In 1926, the city bought Old Betsy for $12,500 from American LaFrance in Elmira, New York.

It paid $1,000 upfront and signed notes for the balance over three years. The Type 75 Triple Combination model had a 6-cylinder engine with 105 horsepower.

It featured a rotary gear pump for 750 gallons per minute. The open cab lacked doors, windows, or a roof. Right-handed steering and chain-drive transmission aided its use.

John F. Loughery, the first paid firefighter, painted it white to match his hair. He later became chief. The engine responded to calls until the 1950s.

Even though it retired, the engine but returned frequently for various events. Restoration from 1991 to 1993 brought it to factory condition. It won "Best of Show" and "Best Restored" at antique shows in 1994.

The National Park Service listed it on the National Register of Historic Places on November 1, 2001.

It became the first fire engine so honored. A state historical marker was approved in 2024. 

Historic Marker for Boca Raton Fire Engine No. 1

Old Betsy is at Fire Station 3, 100 South Ocean Boulevard, Boca Raton, FL 33432. The station sits on A1A south of East Palmetto Park Road.

It operates 24 hours as an active fire station. Visitors can view the engine outside or in the bay during daylight. Call (561) 393-7920 for guided looks or event info.

Street parking is nearby; check signs for limits. Respect operations by staying clear of apparatus bays. Walk the oceanfront for added views.

The Boca Raton Historical Society has offered talks on its history in the past; check their website for potential dates. 

• Dual ignition systems let it start by magneto or battery, ensuring quick response.  

• A hand crank on the front served as backup for starting the engine.  

• The bell moved to the front to fit under the old City Hall doorway.  

• It carried a 12-foot ladder and a 24-foot extension ladder for rescues.  

• A swivel searchlight on the dashboard aided night operations. 

BOCA RATON HISTORICAL SOCIETY WEBSITE 

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