Texas Fire World
May-June, 2005
By Donna Berny

The Austin Fire Museum reflects the extensive history behind the creation and growth of the Austin Fire Department. It is located in Austin’s Central Station Number 1 and features displays that allow visitors to trace the formation of the department. The exhibits depict the department from its original creation in 1857 to its expansion of nine departments by 1913 and beyond, reflecting the tremendous growth of the Austin area. The museum features a variety of memorabilia including early uniforms, equipment such as a Hook and Ladder Number 1 Lantern, and a display honoring the first African American Firefighters. Officials had been trying to create a fire museum in Austin for 93 years and finally succeeded. Members of the Austin Fire Department celebrated the grand opening of the museum April 23, 2005. Its mission is to “share and preserve the rich history of the Austin Fire Department and its firefighters, and serve the public through fire and life safety.” Events held during the grand opening helped raise over $1,000 in funds for the museum. The museum is open from 12:30pm to 5pm Fridays and Saturdays. No admission fee is charged but the opportunity to be a sponsor is available. For more information,
visit www.austinfiremuseum.org or
email afm@austinfiremuseum.org.