May 15, 2009

The Department of History, Arts and Libraries and the Michigan Historical Commission today announced that the 2009 Governor John B. Swainson Award will be presented to Chief Danny H. Hagen in the Capitol Rotunda at a 1 p.m. ceremony on Tuesday, May 19. This year's winner hails from Eastpointe.

Given by the Michigan Historical Commission to state, county or municipal employees who have gone above and beyond their official job duties to help preserve Michigan's history, the prestigious Swainson Award originated in 1996.

"Our historic resources are among Michigan's greatest treasures, and the Swainson Award helps us pay tribute to those who serve as stewards of our state's rich heritage," said HAL Acting Director Mark Hoffman. "This year's winner has earned the honor with his passion for keeping history alive in the city of Eastpointe."

This year's Governor John B. Swainson Award winner is Danny H. Hagen of Eastpointe, for the restoration of East Detroit/Eastpointe's original Model T fire truck.

Fire Chief Danny H. Hagen recognized the historical value of Eastpointe's #1 vehicle, a rare 1921 Model T chemical truck that used a mix of soda and acid to douse fires. When the truck no longer ran, he covered it and kept it safe, hoping that it could one day be restored. In 2003, the East Detroit Historical Society approached Hagen with a plan to use volunteers and donated funds to help him restore the truck to running order.

Working with a volunteer restoration team and paint donated from local businesses, they completely restored the truck, keeping the original parts as much as possible. The project was finished in May 2008, and the truck was proudly returned to the Eastpointe Fire Department for the department decals, hose and brass work.

The Michigan Historical Commission advises the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL) on the work of the Michigan Historical Center. Dedicated to enriching quality of life and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, HAL also includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/hal.