10 myears ago my dept bought a used American Lafrance 700 aerial ladder.It was not in the best of shape,but I took care of that.Now It's being replaced and I"m not happy. It's like a member of my family.
Not that I would want to "own" any of my inlaws, but I do own several fire trucks. Do you get a chance to possibly purchase this for yourself and continue to enjoy? I would think there would not be much call for a 1957 fire truck for another department's use. You may be able to even work out a deal to store it with the department somewhere as it is part of thier history you would be saving. There also might be a local SPAAMFAA chapter near you that could help you with this. Just some ideas before someone buys it for the engine or tires or scrap metal. Good luck.
It passes every inspection these last 10 years,and everything on it works fine.The white paint is not glossy anymore,but it's in too good shape to just abandon.I could remove the light bar,and replace the beacon along with a few more things would make it close to original. Got 6 new tires,a little short on ground ladders.