***** Winners ANNOUNCEMENT***** FEBRUARY CONTEST "PART OF THE WHOLE"

[Grumpy Old Guy]

37. Thank you very much Panader0!

That is exactly what I was going for with this image. It was impossible not to notice this beautiful old siren. I "zoomed with my feet," getting closer to it to capture the exquisite detail in the chrome. It wasn't until I had a chance to review the images that I really began to appreciate the patina of the weathered truck body, and I wanted to bring that out in the processing. I tend to strive for clarity and detail in my photos, and I can look at this image all day and not get tired of it.

I did some research on the siren, trying to learn a little of its history. The siren is a model 2QB, made by the Federal Signal Company. For many years it was the standard for fire engines, both for its sound and its durability. Apparently one of its most redeeming qualities is that it never froze in cold weather. Federal Signal started making sirens in the early 1900s, but they advertise this model as being fifty years old, so it's possible that this isn't the original siren. If this wasn't the original, it is probably still very old, and the original was probably similar in design.

Thanks again! Much appreciated.