Neligh Volunteer Fire Dept. Receives Fire Truck Donation

The 1935 GMC Fire Truck, purchased new by the Neligh Volunteer Fire Dept.

​​The Neligh Volunteer Fire Department received a donation Monday in the form of an old friend, a 1935 GMC Fire Truck.

The fire truck, donated by the Furstenau family, was purchased new in 1935 by the Neligh Vounteer Fire Dept. and was in service under the department for many years.

When the truck was retired, it was put up for sale and bought by the Furstenau family. The truck was a welcome addition to the Furstenau family, as they have a large collection of vintage John Deere tractors and other farm machinery. Since then, the truck has remained in the Neligh area.

Dave Jacobson of the Neligh Volunteer Fire Dept. said that the idea of donating the truck back to the department stemmed from the 125th anniversary celebration. One of the many items on display at the celebration was the original title and bill of sale for the truck. Galen Furstenau made the comment that the truck now belonged to him, and although the laughed about it and moved on, the seed was planted.

The truck, although drivable, is in dated condition with the original finish and wear-and-tear from service over the years. However, Jacobson says that after approval from the rest of the department, he hopes that they can restore it and use it in the local parades and other town celebrations.

(Photos courtesy of the Neligh Volunteer Fire Dept.)