In Glenwood Springs’ early years, two competing fire companies, the Isaac Cooper Hose Company No. 1 and Glenwood Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, served the community before consolidating into a single volunteer fire department around the turn of the century.

As the department modernized, its hand-pulled hose carts were replaced with motorized equipment. On Aug. 13, 1917, the Glenwood Springs City Council approved the purchase of a Brockway Type B6 fire truck equipped with American LaFrance firefighting equipment for $3,465. The truck featured chain drive and solid rubber tires.

The truck served Glenwood Springs until 1939, when it was replaced by a Dodge pumper truck. It was later sold to the town of Minturn for $25.

The 1917 Brockway fire truck is shown parked in front of City Hall, 915 Grand Ave., circa 1935. The bell mounted on the truck was later restored and is now displayed at Glenwood Springs Fire Station No. 2 downtown.

The nonprofit Glenwood Springs Historical Society, founded 1964, preserves and shares the town’s unique history at the Frontier History Museum and provides additional public programs. Information about the museum events, and membership are at GlenwoodHistory.org.