This 1952 Crosley Hook and Ladder Fire Truck was reportedly built originally by Overland Amusements as a children's amusement park ride and is the beneficiary of extensive, award-winning frame-off restoration that looks absolutely gorgeous! The Crosley story began as early as 1907 when Cincinnati industrialist and entrepreneur Powel Crosley, Jr. first attempted to enter the automotive world. His initial ventures-the Marathon Six and the DeCross cycle-car-saw limited success and were discontinued by 1909 and 1913 respectively. After a decades-long hiatus, Crosley returned to car manufacturing with the debut of the Crosley automobile in 1939, a compact, European-inspired economy car known for its excellent fuel efficiency and affordability. In 1940, Crosley expanded its lineup to include light-duty trucks-though "light-duty" in this case referred to ultra-compact trucks meant to replace bicycle couriers, not to compete with heavy-duty haulers. These mini trucks were ideal for small deliveries and utility tasks within cities or factory environments. Like many U.S. automakers, Crosley paused civilian vehicle production during World War II to support the war effort. When production resumed in 1947, Crosley trucks returned, now officially rated as quarter-ton utility vehicles-smaller than the standard half-ton trucks of the era. One of the most interesting chapters in Crosley's legacy came with its miniature fire trucks, built for industrial use and even amusement rides. Starting in the late 1940s, Overland Amusements converted roughly 100 Crosley trucks into Hook and Ladder amusement rides, where a Crosley towed a rideable fire truck-themed trailer. These trailers were produced in both bumper-pull and rare gooseneck configurations, with the latter believed to exist in single-digit numbers today. This particular gooseneck example comes to us from a wonderful steward of nearly 20 years who not only undertook this Crosley Fire Truck's extensive, award-winning professional restoration but also exhibited the truck at countless Concours D'Elegance caliber events where it achieved very high marks and awards. Under the hood on this 1952 Crosley Fire Truck is a "Cobra" 44 cubic inch overhead valve inline 4 cylinder engine fed by a single barrel carburetor that together were said to have produced 26.5 horsepower when new. The OHV inline 4 is mated to a smooth shifting 3 speed manual transmission that makes this gorgeous attraction an absolute hoot to drive. Power is sent from 26.5 horsepower power plant to the truck's rear axle that is outfitted with dually wheels on either side that provide ample traction while towing. Speaking of towing, this '51 Crosley Amusement Ride truck pulls a matching gooseneck trailer with dually rear wheels and it provides seating for at least 20 children and adults on meticulously restored wooden benches. Additionally, the trailer is trimmed with beautiful decorative wooden ladders, period correct hoses and nozzles, beautifully polished axes, a bell, and of course, period-correct gold leaf lettering just as one would expect to see on a vintage fire truck. Further adding to the outstanding look of this Crosley Hook and Ladder Fire Truck is the matching gold leaf lettering and pinstripes that adorn the cab's doors, fenders, and hood, along with several "Kiddie Fire Dept" badges, a rooftop mounted spinning beacon light, and cowl-mounted siren. Riding on blackwall bias-ply tires mounted on ivory painted steel wheels and accented with polished chrome Crosley-branded hubcaps, this 1952 Hook and Ladder ride has a gorgeous period correct look. The chrome and brightwork around the exterior of this Crosley is in show-quality condition and further elevates the exterior look of this award-winning truck from every angle. The entire steel-bodied exterior of this Crosley Hook and Ladder rig has been refinished in an iconic Fire Engine Red paint that wonderfully complements the golden "Kiddie Fire Department" livery accents. On the inside, this 1952 Crosley Hook and Ladder Fire Truck does not disappoint! The driver's and passenger's bucket seats have been redone in beautiful red upholstery and the floors are tastefully covered with black rubber flooring. The door panels were refinished in a two-tone color scheme consisting of red and silver, that wonderfully complement the silver painted steering wheel and red painted dash. The Crosley-branded instrument cluster includes a 70 MPH speedometer, oil pressure gauge, temperature gauge, amp gauge, and fuel gauge. Whether you're buying your first classic truck and you want to be the talk of the town, or you're adding to your existing collection of unique classic cars, this 1952 Crosley Hook and Ladder Fire Truck is an extra special piece and would make an excellent choice. Give Ellingson's a call today at 763-428-7337!