Back many years ago a group of American LaFrance enthusiasts and collectors were born called the American LaFrance Coterie Society. This group’s mission was to follow the history of American LaFrance fire trucks and to support the enthusiast and collector with information about the apparatus they came to love and enjoy. Unfortunately, this group over time faded.
In 2005, Don Richardson of Houston, Texas created the American LaFrance Owners Network as a means to fill the void left by the disbanding of the Coterie Society. Don, after receiving a lot of questions about American LaFrances decided to create a website as a means to share information about American LaFrance apparatus and equipment. Before he knew it, hundreds of emails were arriving daily about American LaFrance apparatus and equipment. The board grew from 1 member to over 600 members in a little over a year.
Unfortunately, Don passed away unexpected in the spring of 2007. After talking with Sherry, Don’s wife, I (Tim Henshaw) assumed responsibility for the website to continue Don’s dream. Today, the American LaFrance Owners Network is alive and well. New members are joining everyday and collectors and enthusiasts all over the globe have a place to share their stories and experiences for their love of American LaFrance apparatus and equipment. We are thankful for Don’s foresight and leadership in connecting so many of us today!