Spring Hill, Tenn. – On a sunny Saturday, the Spring Hill Police Department faced off against the Spring Hill Fire Department in a light‑hearted softball game that turned into a community fundraiser for the town’s iconic 1957 fire engine, known locally as Fire Belle.
Historic fire engine at the heart of the event
Fire Belle, a 1957 Ford fire engine, has been a fixture of Spring Hill for nearly seven decades. “She’s a legend in Spring Hill,” said longtime resident Jackie Glenn, recalling the truck’s role in a 1972 school fire where volunteers pushed the engine to the scene and helped extinguish the blaze.
Fire Belle’s chief, Graig Temple, explained that the vehicle now sits in a repair shop needing a new engine, brakes and transmission. “The repairs are going to be close to $60,000,” Temple said, emphasizing the urgency of restoring the historic asset.
Softball tournament sparks generosity
The tournament was organized by Benny Jett, president of the Spring Hill Historical and Genealogical Society, who turned 17 just days before the event. Jett rallied local businesses and residents to sponsor the game, creating a fun way to raise the needed funds.
“Fire Belle represents old Spring Hill,” Jett said. “Spring Hill used to be 400 people and now it’s almost 70,000.” The crowd, a mix of longtime residents and newcomers, cheered loudly for the fire department, with one concession‑stand operator joking, “Gotta go with the fire department – they don’t pull me over!”
Mayor and community leaders show support
Mayor Matt Fitterer attended the game, praising the effort. “Fire Belle is a very important historical asset to the city,” Fitterer said, noting that the event exemplified the small‑town spirit of neighbors working together.
Ann Russell, a resident who served as a volunteer firefighter for about 30 years, added, “I ask everyone where they’re from because I know they’re not from Spring Hill!” Her comment underscored the pride locals feel in sharing their heritage with visitors.
Cross‑generational enthusiasm
The tournament drew participants of all ages, illustrating how the fire engine’s story bridges generations. Residents recounted personal memories of Fire Belle, and younger volunteers expressed excitement about seeing the restored engine in future community events such as the Christmas Parade.
“We will be able to ensure Spring Hill’s history will be continued in future generations,” Jett affirmed, reflecting the collective hope that the fundraiser will secure the engine’s return to active service and public display.
Looking ahead
With the $60,000 repair estimate in mind, organizers hope the tournament’s proceeds will make a significant dent in the cost. The community’s response suggests that additional fundraising activities may follow, keeping the momentum alive for preserving Spring Hill’s historic treasures.
For more information on upcoming events or to contribute to the Fire Belle restoration, residents can contact the Spring Hill Historical and Genealogical Society.
Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
