Skokie’s Pirsch Snorkel

Skokie Fire Department 1969 Pirsch Snorkel

Skokie Snorkel 1 (later Truck 16) when it was in-service. Steve Redick photo

Jeff Rudolph came across a piece of Skokie’s firefighting history that stirred up some nostalgia.

This is Skokie's old '69 Pirsch Snorkel. It was heading to a scrapyard in Wisconsin, which was really sad to see. It was picked up from Jim Carew's place in Bristol, WI. After it was taken out of service in the mid-90s, it was sold to Wally Mitchell, then to Jim. The truck was used for setting up radio towers and antennas. Take note of the missing basket and any other equipment that might have been on it. Also, look at the trailer it was being hauled on. The driver only made it one mile before a state trooper pulled him over for an unsafe load.

Skokie Fire Department Pirsch Snorkel

The remnants of Skokie Truck 16, a 1969 Pirsch Snorkel heading to a scrap yard. Jeff Rudolph photo

Skokie Fire Department Pirsch Snorkel

A rear view of the Snorkel shows the bucket is missing. Jeff Rudolph photo

Meanwhile, Jeff shared some recent updates about the Skokie Fire Department:

  • Tower 16 has returned from its refurbishment by Pierce, but it's not yet back in service.
  • Engine 17’s Pierce Saber will be in Tipton, IN at RPI for several months undergoing a major refurbishment.

It’s always interesting to see how fire departments evolve over time—some pieces get retired, while others are given new life. This old Pirsch Snorkel was a true relic of the past, and it’s a shame it didn’t make it to a museum or historical display. But at least it’s getting documented, so future generations can remember its legacy.

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