Of all the companies that built motor fire apparatus in America in 20th century, none has acquired the cult-like devotion accorded the unique products of the Ahrens-Fox Engine Company of Cincinnati, Ohio. With its front-mounted pump surmounted by a gleaming spherical air chamber, the Ahrens-Fox piston pumper projects irresistible aesthetic and mechanical appeal. In 1905, the newly-formed Ahrens Fire Engine Company began production of horse-drawn steam fire engines in a new factory in Cincinnati. Five years later the company was reorganized as the Ahrens-Fox Fire Engine Co., the company's hyphenated name incorporating those of its two principals - Charles H.Fox and John P.Ahrens - respectively, President and Vice President of the restructured company.