The Kingman Fire Department is seeking individual or corporate donations, in order to restore Kingman’s first ever fire apparatus, known as the “FROG.” Initial restoration estimates to get the “FROG” running again, are upwards of $25,000, so the department is looking for the community’s help to keep this important piece of history alive.
On September 22, 1921, the Kingman Fire Department was first created, and later that year, on October 6, 1921, a piece of history was placed in motion. Kingman Fire Department’s first fire apparatus was purchased: a brand new 1922 American LaFrance pumper better known as the “FROG,” and was used for decades to come.
Fast forward to today, where this first piece of history sits, waiting to be rejuvenated. Many fire departments across the nation do one of two things with their historical piece of apparatus: mothball them, where that piece of history never sees the light of day, or use them as parade vehicles to remind people of the rich, local history. Kingman Fire’s American LaFrance has been mothballed, but they want everyone’s help bringing their “FROG” back to life. For donation information, contact Kingman Fire Chief Jake Rhoades at jrhoades@cityofkingman.gov or (928) 753-2891.
