The Fire Museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is a great place to visit when you want to heat things up. You will experience a fun learning environment as you peruse the displays and visit with the knowledgeable staff. The name of the museum was changed to Pennsylvania National Fire Museum during the year of 2001.
The Fire Museum is located in a Victorian firehouse built in 1899. The museum showcases an exceptional collection of artifacts that includes the hand drawn fire equipment of yesterday to the modern tools and equipment of today.
You will find many features in this museum that will delight children and adults alike. You will have the opportunity to see many unique fire engines which are housed in a very large room. There are literally hundreds of items on display. You will find everything from the tools used by firefighters to fancy helmets used in parades, uniforms and belts. There is a rather extensive stovepipe hat collection from the 18th and 19th centuries.
You will be able to see the 1867 parade carriage. It is called the "Jennie Cameron". It was won by the Hope Steam Engine Co. No. 2 in a contest and which raised money for the Civil War monument. There is a 9'X16' video wall with 32 screens that shows a free presentation every 30 minutes.
After a day at the Fire Museum, you will walk away with a deeper respect for the men who make this their profession. And you may hear more that once, the words, "When I grow up, I want to be a fireman."
