Fire Museum of Memphis facts for kids
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| Established | 1998 |
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| Location | 118 Adams Ave., Memphis, Tennessee |
| Type | Fire Museum |
| Public transit access |  MATA Trolley: Main Street Line or Riverfront Loop at Jefferson Ave. Station |
The Fire Museum of Memphis is a cool place to visit in downtown Memphis, Tennessee, USA. It's found inside the historic Fire Engine House No. 1. This museum is known as one of the best fire museums in the country!
Its main goal is to show the history of firefighting in Memphis. It also teaches everyone, especially kids, about fire and life safety. When the museum opened in October 1998, it made a big difference. It helped lower the number of fire-related deaths in Memphis. This was important because the city's fire fatality rate was much higher than the national average. The museum offers free entry and bus help for local schools. This makes it easy for many students to learn important safety lessons.
The museum has lots of fun, hands-on exhibits. You can also watch videos that tell amazing stories. In 2014, the museum got a big upgrade with $1.5 million in renovations.
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What You'll See: Awesome Exhibits!
The Fire Museum of Memphis is located in a really old building. It's the Fire Engine House No. 1, which was built way back in 1910. Inside, you'll find exhibits that show what firefighting was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Historic Fire Trucks
You can see several old fire engines that the Memphis Fire Department used long ago. Imagine these huge machines rushing to a fire!
- 1910 Crump Steamer
- 1912 American LaFrance
- 1929 American LaFrance Pumper
Cool Firefighting Gear
The museum also displays many other interesting items. You'll find antique firefighting equipment and old uniforms. There are also American and European Firefighter's helmets, shiny badges, and old lanterns. Don't miss the collection of antique fire toys and small models of fire engines.
Experience a Fire Simulation
One of the most exciting parts is the fire simulation room. It safely shows how a fire can grow in a house. You'll feel the heat and see the "flames" all around you. It's a safe way to understand what it's like to be in a burning building. This helps you learn how to react if a real fire ever happens.
Learn About Memphis Fire History
Video stations tell the story of the Memphis Fire Department. You can also learn about the "Great Fires of Memphis." These were big fires that shaped the city's history. There's even a model of Fire Station No. 1. It shows exactly how the station looked in 1910, when it was first built.
Fun for All Ages
The museum has an Arcade Room with special video games. These games teach you about fire and life safety in a fun way. Outside the museum, there's a special memorial wall. It honors the brave Memphis firefighters who have died while on duty.
Kids can also get hands-on with real fire equipment. You can pretend to drive to a fire or a medical emergency. You can explore the crew cabin of an E-One fire truck. There's also a real ambulance unit and a Ward-LaFrance Pumper to check out.
Ever wanted to slide down a fireman's brass pole? You can do it here! You can also practice crawling through an escape maze. This helps you learn how to find your Family Meeting Place in an emergency. Don't forget to meet Ol' Billy, a talking animatronic horse. He's the only horse to retire from the Memphis Fire Department and he shares amazing stories!
Visiting Hours and Admission
The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 4:30 pm. On Sundays, it's open from 1 pm to 4:30 pm. It's a popular spot for birthday parties and other special events.
Admission prices are:
- Adults: $10
- Children: $8 (Kids 2 and under get in free!)
- Seniors and Military: $8
See also
- Fire safety
- Fire station
- List of museums in Tennessee
