CFD Apparatus History – Ward LaFrance (1973)

In 1973, the Chicago Fire Department received five new Ward LaFrance P80 Ambassador engines. Four of them were equipped with 1,500-GPM pumps and assigned to Engine 23 (D-389), Engine 29 (D-390), Engine 57 (D-391), and Engine 67 (D-392). The fifth unit, which had a more powerful 1,750-GPM pump, was allocated to Engine 74 (D-393). All of these engines featured a 500-gallon water tank, making them well-suited for urban firefighting operations.

Engine 74 stood out from the rest due to its unique design features. Its pump panel was painted red instead of the standard polished finish, and it lacked the wide steel band that wrapped the front doors and cab of the other units. These subtle differences gave it a distinct appearance compared to its 1973 counterparts.

This batch of engines also marked a change in labeling and design. Unlike the earlier 1970 models, the large company numbers were now placed on the rear compartment, while a smaller number was displayed on the cab face. Additionally, "Chicago Fire Dept." was now visible on both sides of the cab, under the jump-seat window, as well as on the roof above the windshield. The handrail at the back of the cab was also modified, no longer spanning the full width, as the multi-versal was now stored on top of the engine.

The 1973 Ward LaFrance Ambassadors were a significant addition to the department's fleet, and several photos capture their unique characteristics. Engine 23 (D-389) was one of the four with the 1,500-GPM pump, and its image highlights the classic design of the era. Engine 29 (D-390) shows the officer’s side of the Ambassador-style cab, offering a glimpse into how these units were operated. Engine 57 (D-391) is another example of the 1,500-GPM model, while Engine 67 (D-392) represents the fifth unit delivered that year.

Engine 74 (D-393), with its larger pump and different styling, was a standout in the group. It later moved to Engine 104, marking a shift in its service history. These vehicles played an important role in the city’s firefighting efforts during the 1970s and remain a key part of Chicago’s fire apparatus legacy.

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