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Motto to Remember

8/9/2009:

Towner got a new fire truck in 1923. It was a beauty, as good as any in the larger cities, and although fires were a serious business, the firemen were anxious to try it out. They even considered lighting up some garbage for its trial run.

In the meantime, the fire superintendent decided it would be a good idea to give the new fire engine a motto. It was debated by the men for awhile, and several men made several suggestions. On this date, it was reported that one man finally rose to his feet and suggested this motto: “May this fire engine be like all the old maids in our village—always ready, but never called for.”

Dakota Datebook written by Sarah Walker

Sources:

Mouse River Farmers Press, August 3, 1923, p.1

Bantry Advocate, August 9, 1923