A hundred years of dedication calls for a proper celebration.
This year, as Venice marks its Centennial, Venice Fire Rescue and Venice Heritage Inc. are teaming up to honor a full century of local fire service. And right at the heart of it all sits Old Betsy, the City’s treasured 1926 American LaFrance fire engine, still going strong at 100 years old.
Old Betsy’s Story
Old Betsy originally rolled into Moore Haven, Florida, back in September 1926. But just days after she arrived, disaster struck. The catastrophic 1926 Great Miami Hurricane burst through the mud dikes at Lake Okeechobee, flooding Moore Haven and leaving the brand-new fire truck underwater. The town’s finances never recovered from the storm, so Moore Haven offered their fire engine to Venice if Venice agreed to take over the remaining payments. Venice, newly incorporated, took the deal. Old Betsy became our very first fire engine, and through the decades, this community has made sure she’s cared for. Today, you’ll find her lovingly preserved and on display thanks to the Venice Museum and Archives.
Now, they’re inviting you to celebrate Old Betsy’s 100th birthday. Stop by this Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Old Betsy Museum, 343 Nassau St. S., right across from the Venice History Museum. There’ll be live music, family activities, a lineup of antique and modern fire trucks, plus food trucks, birthday cake, and plenty more. While you’re there, meet Earl and Karen Midlam, the folks who look after Old Betsy.
And don’t miss the Centennial pop-up store, open for card and tap-to-pay purchases. You’ll find the Venice Centennial coffee-table book, the 50th Holiday Parade T-shirt, a campfire mug with the Centennial logo, and a shiny Centennial medallion.
Mark your calendars: Old Betsy’s 100th Birthday Bash, Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Old Betsy Museum. Let’s come together, share stories, and celebrate an authentic piece of Venice history.
Click here for more information about the Venice History Museum.
