Those who can’t get enough of fire trucks and equipment often dream of a place they can visit where they are surrounded by the evolution of the fire profession across the state. A high point of interest to many fire buffs is the Fire Museum of Texas.

It first opened its doors in 1984 and is housed in what used to be the Beaumont Fire Department headquarters in 1927. The museum was endorsed by the Texas State Firemen and Fire Marshall’s Association as the state fire museum in 1986. It is also home to the Texas Firefighter Memorial and the largest fire hydrant in the world.

The museum has many other features of interest to visitors including an extensive collection of antique fire engines and equipment dating as far back as 1856. Displays include a hand drawn Tub Pumper from 1856, a 1909 Aerial Ladder Truck, and a 1931 Light Truck sent to the New London School Explosion in 1937 and the Texas City Disaster in 1947.

Several activities are made available for kids who visit the museum. They can walk in the shoes of a fireman by dressing up in firefighter gear and driving a simulated fire truck to a fire. The museum also presents a Fire Safety Activity Center in which children can practice fire drills and visitors of all ages can learn about proper household safety.

A summer camp and other sponsored events with live demonstrations are hosted by the museum in order to create opportunities throughout the year for kids to be educated on fire safety and prevention. For more information on how to become a member or to make a tour reservation, visit the museum website, or call 409-880-3927.