1860 Rumsey Hand-Drawn Pumper

This Village Pumper was used by the Badger Volunteer Fire Company of Centerville, Wisconsin. In 1871 the Fire Company, with its little Rumsey, moved by train, responded to Chicago to assist in fighting “The Great Chicago Fire,” which destroyed a third of that city.

The “Badger” is called a “Piano Box” style pumper because of the tanks shape and pump housing. This beautifully restored piece is on display in Gallery 1.