Web Resources
- Library of Congress Digital CollectionsA digital record of American history from the collections of the Library of Congress.
- Digital Public Library of AmericaBrings together materials from America's libraries, archives, and museums and makes it freely available.
- Escape Through TimeThis webpage accompanies PBS' Nova series on Escape Through Fire, and details the history of many facets of firefighting tools and technologies.
- Globe Manufacturing: 125 Years and CountingThis Fire Apparatus and Emergency Equipment article discusses the Globe Manufacturing company, which is often credited with the creation of turnout gear.
- History of the Blue "Star of Life"This page, provided by the city of Albuquerque, discusses in detail the history of EMS' Star of Life symbol.
- Warrenville Fire Protection DistrictThis webpage from the Warrenville Fire Protection District shows their antique emergency truck, and gives a brief history of its use.
About this page
Use the resources on this page to research and learn about fire apparatus and equipment history.
Titles from the IFSI Library
Click on a link below to view the item in the catalog. If an item is not linked, please contact the library to request access at 217-333-8925.
The World Encyclopedia of Fire Engines and Firefighting by Call Number: TH9116 .W35 2003ISBN: 0754820793Publication Date: 2012-12-16This book is an illustrated guide to fire trucks around the world, with 700 pictures of modern and historical apparatus.
Those Magnificent Old Steam Fire Engines by Call Number: TH9376 .C66 1997ISBN: 0925165190Publication Date: 1996-08-01Steam fire engines soon revolutionized firefighting throughout the world. Designed to be the definitive reference work on steam engines, this book is for casual readers as well as fire-buffs.
Modern Fire Trucks by ISBN: 1583883169Publication Date: 2014-11-19The progression of American fire apparatus since the romantic horse-drawn era has truly been amazing, with the elementary steam engines and wagons of yesteryear evolving into a multitude of technologically advanced modern rigs. This volume highlights fire trucks from 1980 to present, the culmination of the 20th Century into a new Millennium.- Fire Engines in North America byCall Number: Q. TH9371 .S31F514ISBN: 1555216749Publication Date: 1991-09-01This is a comprehensive look at firefighting in the US, from the leather fire buckets of colonial times to the latest quick-attack pumpers and aerial rigs of today.
Apparatus History Video
The Charlotte Fire Department showcases 85 years of fire engine apparatus in the 2010 Thanksgiving Parade.
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