Barrett, Jackson, Automobile, auto, Auction, Whirlwind, Scottsdale, Arizona, AZ, 1928, Ahrens-Fox, Ahrens, Fox, fire, truck, 1941, Plymouth, Special, Deluxe, Convertible, 1981, Delorean, DMC-12, DMC, 12 |
Hello Friends and Family, |
Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction 2019, Part 13 |
Link to this year's index by clicking here. |
Something different to start the day — Ahrens-Fox has long since been considered the Rolls-Royce of fire trucks. The origin of Ahrens-Fox traces back to 1852, the beginnings of the steam fire engine era when Alexander B. Latta constructed a steam-powered fire engine in Cincinnati. This was early in the era of the steam-powered fire engine, and the development was followed closely by a young apprentice in the works named Chris Ahrens. Ahrens later assumed ownership of Latta’s company and in 1903 merged with American LaFrance. ![]() |
Ahrens-Fox was started in 1910 following the departure of Ahrens’ sons and two of his sons-in-law (one of whom was Charles Fox) from American LaFrance. Initially, Ahrens-Fox manufactured a few horse-drawn and steam-driven fire engines, but they soon switched to an apparatus powered by Walter Christie's pioneering 2-wheel tractors, then concentrated on 2-wheel gasoline engine-driven units. ![]() |
One of the most identifiable features of an Ahrens-Fox is not only the unique grille of the engine but also the massive upright pump with all its polished fittings. These features are what helped to secure the Ahrens-Fox fire engine’s place in history as having one of the most remarkable faces in the world of motor vehicles. ![]() |
These gentlemen are enjoying sitting on this Ahrens-Fox which was originally commissioned in 1928 for the City of New Orleans Fire Department. It was later sold to a fire museum in Louisiana, at which time it was totally restored. This truck is powered by a T-head 998ci 6-cylinder GEO engine with dual ignition and a 3-speed manual transmission. This unit is also equipped with a 900 gallon-per-minute (gpm) pump. It sold at auction for a whopping $104,500. ![]() |
It seems like we have seen quite a few of these old Plymouths — this one a 1941 Plymouth P12 Special Deluxe Convertible that has 700 miles since its complete frame-off restoration. ![]() |
Even the classic hood ornament is in great shape. ![]() |
It is finished in its correct color of Charlotte Ivory with Chocolate Brown leather interior. The original drivetrain has been rebuilt and consists of a 201ci 6-cylinder engine mated to a 3-speed manual transmission. ![]() |
Many options have been added, including the bumper guards, center brake light, and dual spotlights. A select offering from the Bryan Frank Collection. It has been in the collection since 1995. ![]() |
It must be a rare one since it sold at auction for $51,700. ![]() |
Back to the Future anyone? This beautiful, all-original 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 has only 4,800 original miles. This survivor has been stored in a museum for decades. It has an original stainless body with original bumpers. ![]() |
I apologize for the reflections in the driver-side window — bad lighting, unfortunately. At least you can get a feeling of how you might enjoy driving this rare treat. ![]() |
The car is powered by its original 2.85-liter V6 engine backed by an automatic transmission. It was recently completely serviced mechanically with receipts. This is an early-opening gas door DeLorean with a black leather interior. It even has factory air and its original Craig radio. It sold for $39,600. ![]() |
All good things must come to an end and this marks the final photos of the 2019 Barrett-Jackson Auction. It really did get my creative juices flowing again and I look forward to the next one — whether in 2021 or later. And, of course, I will share the goodies. |
Life is good. |
Aloha, B. David |
P. S., All photos and text © B. David Cathell Photography, Inc. — www.bdavidcathell.com |