I just got back from visiting the Bedford Park Fire Department, and I’m thrilled to see what they’re doing with their historic 1959 Snorkel! Karl Klotz was there talking to Chief Sean Maloy about the restoration project. This particular unit holds a special place in history as it was the very first Snorkel ever built by Pitman. It was initially designed for the Chicago Fire Department but ended up being rejected due to its length and tandem axle setup. Instead, the Bedford Park Fire Department stepped in and bought it.
The Snorkel, originally numbered 5 and later renumbered 712, began its service in Bedford Park in 1959. It faithfully served the community until 1979 when it was replaced by a Seagrave Snorkel 705. After its retirement from firefighting duties, it found itself working in the public works department, mainly used by the street light division until around 1995. From then on, it sat neglected in the back parking lot of the public works yard, slowly deteriorating.
Fast forward to today, and this iconic piece of fire history is now safely inside Station 1, undergoing a full-scale restoration. The mechanical work is being handled in-house by the fire department's own mechanics, who are clearly passionate about bringing this old beauty back to life. Once the mechanical repairs are complete, the bodywork will be outsourced to the Automotive Mentoring Group (AMG) for some much-needed touch-ups and refinishing.
This ambitious project is being partially funded by the BPFD Foreign Fire Board and the Village of Bedford Park. It’s inspiring to see how much effort and care is going into preserving such a significant piece of fire service history.
As one reader shared with me, this Snorkel is more than just a vehicle; it’s a testament to innovation and adaptation. Rumor has it that the original design was even commissioned by the late Chicago Commissioner Quinn but ultimately rejected because its long wheelbase made it impractical for navigating Chicago’s urban landscape. The Bedford Park Fire Department saw potential where others didn’t and seized the opportunity.
Currently, you can find this piece of fire service history being lovingly restored in the heart of Bedford Park. Dennis McGuire, Jr. also sent me some older photos of the Snorkel during its time languishing in the public works yard. They really highlight the stark contrast between its past neglect and its current state of rejuvenation.
It’s amazing to think about all the stories this vehicle could tell if it could speak—its time serving the Chicago streets, its journey to Bedford Park, and now its rebirth thanks to the dedication of its current caretakers. I can’t wait to see how it turns out!
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