We'd like to acquaint you with the Firefighter’s Museum in downtown Fort Wayne, located at 226 W. Washington Blvd., directly across the street from the convention center.
The Fire Fighter’s Museum stands as a proud testament to the bravery and dedication of the men and women who have served the city’s fire departments over the decades. This museum is not only a repository of historical artifacts, but also a vibrant community center that celebrates the evolution of firefighting and honors the sacrifices made by local heroes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for an educational outing, or someone interested in the world of firefighting, the museum offers a unique and inspiring experience.
Established in the early 1980s by retired firefighters and community leaders, the Fire Fighter’s Museum was created to preserve the rich heritage of fire fighting in Fort Wayne. The city boasts a tradition of fire departments dating back to the mid-1800s, and the museum’s mission is to protect and share this legacy with future generations. Through meticulously curated exhibits, the museum traces the development of firefighting from horse-drawn engines and hand-pulled hose carts to the advanced technology and equipment used today. The museum also serves as a tribute to firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty, with memorial plaques and annual ceremonies that recognize their service.
Visitors to the Fire Fighter’s Museum will discover an impressive array of artifacts, ranging from antique fire engines and alarm boxes to uniforms, helmets, and badges. One of the museum’s highlights is a beautifully restored 1919 American LaFrance fire engine, which gleams with polished brass and red paint, evoking the excitement of a bygone era. Interactive displays allow guests to handle vintage equipment, try on firefighter gear, and even test their skills at simulated firefighting challenges. The museum also features photographs, documents, and news clippings that chronicle major fires in Fort Wayne’s history, including the devastating courthouse fire of 1871 and the downtown warehouse blaze in 1935.
Another notable exhibit is the “Hall of Heroes”, which showcases the stories of individual firefighters who have made significant contributions to the community. Through personal memorabilia, oral histories, and video interviews, visitors gain an intimate understanding of the courage and camaraderie that define the fire service. The museum also has a section dedicated to fire prevention and safety education, where children and adults alike can learn about modern techniques for keeping homes and businesses safe from fire.
The museum’s building is a historic fire station, lovingly restored to maintain its original architectural features, including the iconic red doors and bell tower.
The museum is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, with guided tours available by appointment. Admission is modest, and proceeds support the museum’s preservation efforts and educational programs.
A visit to the Fire Fighter’s Museum is more than just a walk through history, it’s an opportunity to connect with the spirit of service and resilience that defines the city of Fort Wayne. Whether you come to admire vintage engines, learn about fire safety, or pay tribute to fallen heroes, the museum offers a meaningful and memorable experience for all who enter its doors.
A short video about the museum.
We hope to see you all in Fort Wayne next August.
Cheers,
Nora and John