A Pirsch Dodge design fire truck, with Pirsch mechanic Edmond R. Wade demonstrating attaching a hose. Circa 1937-1940. Photograph by S. C. Johnson and Son, Racine, Wisconsin.
Starting in 1857, Nicholas Pirsch began producing fire engines and ladders. By 1970, the Pirsch Company became the largest United States manufacturer that focused exclusively on the production of fire equipment. Feeling competitive pressure from foreign companies, Pirsch stopped operations in 1986 and declared bankruptcy in 1987.