Lake County Indiana Snorkel History

Here's a post from Wayne Stuart for #TBT:

Lake County, Indiana, fire departments were once home to several Snorkel aerial ladders. Gary had two units in service over the years, but not at the same time. One of them was originally from South Holland, while another came from New Albany, Indiana. The Griffith unit also originated from New Albany, and the Mattoon ALF served in both St. John and Shelby, Indiana. Hammond operated two Snorkel companies simultaneously—Snorkel 1 and Snorkel 2. Munster, although located in Lake County, falls under Mabas Division 24. Interestingly, the Crown Point unit was purchased as a demo from Snohomish County, Washington.

Wayne Stuart Collection

Maxim 85' Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

Maxim Pierce 85' Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

Crown 65' Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

American France Aero Chief Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

Maxim Pierce 85' Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

Maxim Pierce 85' Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

Mack CF 85' Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

American France Aero Chief 90 Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

American France Aero Chief Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

Mack CF 55' Snorkel

Wayne Stuart photo

These photos are part of Wayne Stuart’s collection, capturing some of the iconic Snorkel units that once served in Lake County and beyond. Each one tells a story of fire apparatus history, showing how these towering machines helped protect communities across the Midwest. Whether it was a Maxim, Crown, or American France model, these rigs were essential tools for firefighters in their daily work.

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