Hello Friends and Family,

Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction 2019, Part 13

Link to this year's index by clicking here.

Something different to start the day — Ahrens-Fox has long since been considered the Rolls-Royce of fire trucks. The origin of Ahrens-Fox traces back to 1852, the beginnings of the steam fire engine era when Alexander B. Latta constructed a steam-powered fire engine in Cincinnati. This was early in the era of the steam-powered fire engine, and the development was followed closely by a young apprentice in the works named Chris Ahrens. Ahrens later assumed ownership of Latta’s company and in 1903 merged with American LaFrance.



Ahrens-Fox was started in 1910 following the departure of Ahrens’ sons and two of his sons-in-law (one of whom was Charles Fox) from American LaFrance. Initially, Ahrens-Fox manufactured a few horse-drawn and steam-driven fire engines, but they soon switched to an apparatus powered by Walter Christie's pioneering 2-wheel tractors, then concentrated on 2-wheel gasoline engine-driven units.



One of the most identifiable features of an Ahrens-Fox is not only the unique grille of the engine but also the massive upright pump with all its polished fittings. These features are what helped to secure the Ahrens-Fox fire engine’s place in history as having one of the most remarkable faces in the world of motor vehicles.



These gentlemen are enjoying sitting on this Ahrens-Fox which was originally commissioned in 1928 for the City of New Orleans Fire Department. It was later sold to a fire museum in Louisiana, at which time it was totally restored. This truck is powered by a T-head 998ci 6-cylinder GEO engine with dual ignition and a 3-speed manual transmission. This unit is also equipped with a 900 gallon-per-minute (gpm) pump. It sold at auction for a whopping $104,500.



It seems like we have seen quite a few of these old Plymouths — this one a 1941 Plymouth P12 Special Deluxe Convertible that has 700 miles since its complete frame-off restoration.



Even the classic hood ornament is in great shape.



It is finished in its correct color of Charlotte Ivory with Chocolate Brown leather interior. The original drivetrain has been rebuilt and consists of a 201ci 6-cylinder engine mated to a 3-speed manual transmission.



Many options have been added, including the bumper guards, center brake light, and dual spotlights. A select offering from the Bryan Frank Collection. It has been in the collection since 1995.



It must be a rare one since it sold at auction for $51,700.



Back to the Future anyone? This beautiful, all-original 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 has only 4,800 original miles. This survivor has been stored in a museum for decades. It has an original stainless body with original bumpers.



I apologize for the reflections in the driver-side window — bad lighting, unfortunately. At least you can get a feeling of how you might enjoy driving this rare treat.



The car is powered by its original 2.85-liter V6 engine backed by an automatic transmission. It was recently completely serviced mechanically with receipts. This is an early-opening gas door DeLorean with a black leather interior. It even has factory air and its original Craig radio. It sold for $39,600.



All good things must come to an end and this marks the final photos of the 2019 Barrett-Jackson Auction. It really did get my creative juices flowing again and I look forward to the next one — whether in 2021 or later. And, of course, I will share the goodies.

Life is good.

Aloha,
B. David

P. S., All photos and text © B. David Cathell Photography, Inc. — www.bdavidcathell.com