Still On Duty

In the 1970's, longtime Vintage Car Club of Holland member Clyde Poll set out to build something special—a 1915 Ford Model T Fire Chief’s car. Drawing from his skills as a mechanic and a love for antique machinery, Clyde assembled the car from assorted parts, bringing it to life with vibrant red paint and gleaming brass hardware. The result was a fully functional, head-turning tribute to early firefighting history.

Clyde maintained the fire engine for over forty years, proudly sharing it at events and club gatherings. Then came Rick—a new member with a deep appreciation for vintage fire trucks. As Rick got to know Clyde, he found himself drawn to the old Ford. Over time, the two men developed a friendship rooted in their shared passion, and Rick made it known he’d be honored to care for the fire engine if Clyde ever chose to pass it on.

In 2017, Clyde agreed. Together, the two spent time reviving the car—replacing fluids, cleaning the carburetor, and checking compression. To their delight, the engine roared to life once more. Just months later, Clyde passed away—but his creation lives on.

Today, the 1915 Model T remains an active part of the Vintage Car Club of Holland, still under Rick’s care. More than just a car, it stands as a symbol of continuity, craftsmanship, and the friendships that define our club.