The Clinton Fire Department is asking for the public’s support to help restore a historic 1964 Mack fire engine that could become a community parade truck and piece of local memorabilia.
Officials said the antique fire truck, which has been properly stored and is still somewhat drivable, recently traveled between Station 1 and Station 4 across town. The vehicle has also been featured as part of Station 1’s Christmas decorations in the past.
While the truck is no longer suitable for firefighting, the department said it has the potential to serve as a parade vehicle and a reminder of Clinton’s firefighting history if restored.
The request for donations comes after the department recently placed a 1955 Chevy fire truck up for sale. Fire officials said the decision was not made lightly but was necessary due to space limitations and financial priorities.
According to the department, restoring the 1955 Chevy could have cost between $50,000 and $100,000. Officials said it would have been fiscally irresponsible to spend that amount on a vehicle that could not serve an operational role.
The department also noted that it faces other financial needs, including competitive firefighter salaries, updated equipment and the eventual purchase of new fire engines. New fire apparatus can cost between $750,000 and $2.5 million each, according to officials.
After hearing concerns from residents about the sale of the 1955 Chevy truck, the department said the community now has an opportunity to participate in preserving a different piece of Clinton’s fire service history by contributing to the restoration of the 1964 Mack.
The restoration project includes work on the truck’s fuel system, clutch and brake systems, as well as restoring the wooden hose bed and improving the vehicle’s exterior finish. Planned repairs include refurbishing the fuel tank, inspecting fuel lines, rebuilding brake components, replacing deteriorated wood with oak planks and restoring the truck’s appearance through paint touch-ups or polishing.
Fire officials said community donations would help cover the cost of these repairs and bring the historic engine closer to its original 1964 condition.
The Clinton Fire Department said it appreciates the support it receives from residents throughout the year and hopes the community will join in helping restore the historic vehicle.
