Description:
In 1960, the American Fire Apparatus Co. at Main Street Road and Golden Avenue was one of the nation's largest fire truck manufacturers, producing more than 100 trucks annually. They shared a common site and ownership with American Fire Pump Co., although they operated as separate companies. Combined, the companies employed 70 workers with payrolls totaling $400,000. Prices on their trucks ranged from $12,000 to $25,000. American Fire Apparatus continued operating in Battle Creek until 1978, when it was sold to Collins Industries in Hutchinson, Kan. American Fire Pump ceased operations in 1982, moving to Rogersville, Ala.