Churchland restores a legacy: The 1947 Dodge Fire Truck’s Journey Back to Life

For those who appreciate history, craftsmanship, and community service, the restoration of a 1947 Dodge fire truck holds a special place. This particular truck, once a proud member of the Churchland Fire Department’s fleet in Linwood, NC, is undergoing a meticulous restoration to bring it back to its former glory.

A Piece of Firefighting History Originally rolling out of the Mound Road assembly plant as one of approximately 13,890 WH-47 models in 1947, this two-ton, long-wheelbase truck was later converted into a fire truck by the General Built Corporation. It was equipped with a 500 g.p.m. Waterous pump and a steel water tank capable of holding 350-400 gallons. Interestingly, documentation suggests that the chassis was originally intended for a Ford before being fitted to this Dodge model.

The truck’s journey began with the North Wilkesboro Fire Department in North Carolina before being transferred to Holly Grove Fire Department in Davidson County. In 1955, it found its long-term home with the newly formed Churchland Fire Department, where it served faithfully for decades, even responding to the infamous York Hill Supper Club Restaurant Fire.

A Labor of Love After its retirement in the 1980s, the fire truck passed through private owners before being rediscovered in Pfafftown, NC, in 2012. A connection formed between its then-current owner and a Churchland Fire Department member led to the truck’s return for the department’s 60th Anniversary Celebration in 2015.

In 2019, the truck was officially purchased by an individual with the intent of completing a full frame-off restoration while preserving as much of its original character as possible. Over the past three years, significant progress has been made. The drivetrain, including the engine, transmission, axles, and brakes, has been fully restored. The Waterous pump has also been rebuilt with the assistance of Jeff Whiltley, Fire Chief of Ellis Cross Country FD in Rowan County, NC.

Much of the work—including the chassis, valves, tank, paint, and bodywork—has been completed in-house. A new 125-gallon water tank has been installed, while the wiring remains a 6-volt positive ground system with period-accurate cloth wires and dual generators.

Preserving History with Purpose Unlike some restorations that aim for pristine, showroom-quality finishes, this fire truck is being brought back to life with its history intact. Dents and dings remain, each telling a story of its service. The truck has been repainted using single-stage enamel paint to replicate the look of 1940s lacquer finishes.

The goal is to complete the restoration by the summer of 2024. Once fully operational, this historic fire truck will once again be a visible and active part of the community, participating in parades, festivals, and local events. More than just a project, this restoration is a tribute to the firefighters who once depended on this truck to serve and protect their community.

As this labor of love nears completion, the truck will stand as a rolling testament to the resilience of both machinery and the people who dedicate their time to preserving history. Community members are encouraged to keep an eye out for this 1947 Dodge fire truck—it will soon be back where it belongs: in the heart of the community.