A Piece of Franklin History Returns Home
Jul 28, 2020 08:30AM ● By J.D. O’GaraSgt. Edward W. Guzowski, of the Bellingham Police
Department, purchased this used American LaFrance 700 series ladder truck from
the town of Franklin for 1996, restoring the antique and using it for parades
and community events. Now retiring to Florida, Guzowski donated the truck back
to the town on June 30, 2020.
It was the first ladder truck the town of Franklin ever bought – a 75-foot American LaFrance 700 series ladder truck purchased brand new in 1949 for $28,000. At that time, the largest and most valuable piece of firefighting equipment was considered the proudest possession of Franklin Fire Chief Connor J. Pond and his department. On June 30, 2020, Sergeant Ed Guzowski, a 25-year veteran of the Bellingham Police Department who had purchased the truck used from Franklin in 1996 for $1,700, donated the historic vehicle back to Franklin, bringing it home.
Family members of the late Chief Francis J. Molloy, Christopher Molloy, Jacob Molloy and Denise Molloy, were honored at the event. Chief Molloy once drove the 1949 ladder truck.
“This is our gift basket to Franklin,” said Guzowski, who lovingly restored the antique and used the vehicle in parades and community events for the past 24 years and will now retire to Florida. “Franklin Fire Chief James McLaughlin and members of the Franklin Fire Department will provide a good home for many years to come. I hope it serves you well, and best of luck.”
Honored at the event were the widow, Denise Molloy, Chief Molloy’s grandson, Christopher and great-grandson, Jacob of the late, retired Chief Francis J. Molloy, who once drove the ladder truck, once to Pittsburgh.
“It couldn’t have happened on a better day than this. This is his birthday. He’s been gone seven months. I’m sorry he couldn’t be here today. This was his life,” said Denise Molloy.
“It’s good to see at least part of history will be returned now,” said Christopher Molloy.
The truck, back at Franklin Fire Headquarters on West Central Street, will be used for fire prevention education and historical preservation.