Discover the incredible story of how a piece of community heritage was lost for over 40 years and triumphantly returned home to the Appleton Fire Department. In this presentation hosted by the Appleton Historical Society, retired Lieutenant Brad Brautigam shares the fascinating journey of Old Engine 5—a vintage 1928 Seagrave Pumper that protected the city for decades before vanishing from local records.

From its initial purchase following the devastating 1928 Zuelke Building fire to its surprise discovery in an Illinois pole barn in 2011, this video chronicles a dedicated 14-year fundraising and mechanical restoration effort. Learn about the multi-generational family ties to this beautiful machine, the engineering challenges of rebuilding a century-old engine, and the historic "$1 buy-back agreement" that ensures this local treasure will never leave the city of Appleton again.

Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to check the Appleton History Museum’s calendar for upcoming presentations — they’re filled with fascinating stories and local history. Mark your calendar so you don’t miss the next one!