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January 1943. Washington, D.C. "D.C.F.D. Engine Company No. 4 firehouse. Fire trucks." 4x5 inch acetate negative by Gordon Parks for the Office of War Information. View full size.
I suspect that is simply sheet metal designed to cover the frame and bumper lowering weldment. Many cars of the 1920s-30s share this form of sheet metal cowl. The handle you see is for the 275 lb musclebound super fireman who can hand-crank that beast in case of starter failure.
What that barrel-shaped device is behind the bumper. Perhaps a winch, generator for the siren, part of the front suspension friction dampers?
Checked google maps and found the firehouse is still there.
[Sleep like a fireman for $757 a night! - Dave]
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