1925 Ahrens Fox

1925 Ahrens-Fox Model N-S-4

A Rare and Iconic Fire Engine – Ex-William Ruger, Jr.

Key Features:

• Manufacturer: Ahrens-Fox Fire Engine Company
• Model: N-S-4
• Year: 1925
• Chassis No.: 1641
• Engine: 998 cid T-Head Inline 6-cylinder
• Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
• Suspension: Semi-Elliptic Leaf Springs Front and Rear
• Brakes: Mechanical Rear Brakes
• Pump Capacity: 1,100 gallons per minute

Notable Highlights

• Just three owners from new
• Concours restoration by Firefly Restorations
• Wonderful engineering and craftsmanship
• Previously owned by noted collector William Ruger, Jr.
• Legendary Ahrens-Fox firefighting performance

History of Ahrens-Fox

The origins of Ahrens-Fox trace back to 1852, when Alexander B. Latta constructed a steam-powered fire engine in Cincinnati. His work was closely followed by a young apprentice, Chris Ahrens, who later became instrumental in the company’s development. Initially, Ahrens-Fox produced horse-drawn and steam-driven fire engines, but later transitioned to advanced motorized fire trucks. The firm was known for its powerful pumps, innovative designs, and unrivaled reliability.

One of the most instantly recognizable features of an Ahrens-Fox fire truck is its front-mounted piston pump with a large spherical air chamber, designed to regulate water pressure efficiently. The legendary pumping power of Ahrens-Fox trucks remains well-regarded to this day.

The Firetruck Offered

This 1925 Ahrens-Fox Model N-S-4, chassis 1641, was originally delivered new to the city of Dover, New Hampshire, where it served heroically for nearly four decades. In 1960, it was purchased by Dr. Peter Lampesis of Rollinsford, NH, who saved it from being scrapped. In a letter, Lampesis recalled acquiring it at auction to prevent it from being dismantled for its brass components, and documented three major fires in which the truck played a crucial role, further proving the quality and reliability of Ahrens-Fox firefighting equipment.

In 2002, the fire truck was acquired by prominent American collector William Ruger, Jr., who became the third owner. Ruger, a passionate collector of historic vehicles, sought to restore the truck to its former glory. He commissioned Andy Swift of Firefly Restorations in Hope, Maine, to perform a meticulous restoration. Additionally, gold leaf artist Peter Achorn of FireGold contributed his expertise, applying exquisite filigree detailing and authentic gold leaf lettering to the bodywork.

By 2005, after a three-year concours-quality restoration, chassis 1641 emerged as one of the finest surviving Ahrens-Fox fire trucks in existence. Every aspect of the vehicle was brought to perfection, from its fully rebuilt mechanicals to its stunning gold leaf embellishments and hand-crafted details.

Current Condition & Collector’s Appeal

• Concours-restored fire truck in stunning, show-quality condition
• Retains its original Ahrens-Fox engineering and craftsmanship
• Highly collectible and historically significant
• Ideal for museums, vintage fire truck enthusiasts, and historic exhibitions
• A rare opportunity to own a piece of American firefighting history

This 1925 Ahrens-Fox Model N-S-4 is an exceptional example of early fire truck engineering, with an unparalleled historical pedigree and craftsmanship. With its legendary performance, stunning restoration, and three-owner provenance, this truck is a true collector’s dream.