Philadelphia is the birthplace of a lot of things. The first zoo and library, and the first volunteer fire companies too. In 1736, Benjamin Franklin (who else?) founded the first volunteer fire company called The Union Fire Company. The Fireman’s Hall Museum in Old City is dedicated to the preservation of Philly fire history and promoting fire safety too. Stop by!
Free Fireman Fun
If you ever happen to be in Old City Philadelphia and have some free time, stop by the Fireman’s Hall Museum. It’s free, and the museum is housed in a renovated 1898 firehouse. My kids and I spend a lot of time in Old City. We had an hour to spare before dance class one afternoon and decided to go check out the Fireman’s Hall Museum.
What to Expect
The building is easy to find, at 147 N 2nd Street, just a few steps North of Elfreth’s Alley. Enter off of Quarry Street.
Lots to See
Old horse-drawn fire wagons and motorized too.
Kristen Herrmann for BBGIFire Photo Op
Kristen Herrmann for BBGIFire Buckets!
Kristen Herrmann for BBGI
Some from as early as 1770. Imagine attempting to put out a fire at your home with these.
9/11 Exhibit
The museum also holds the country’s first 9/11 exhibit commemorating the firefighters who gave their lives.
Kristen Herrmann for BBGIFire Marks
My favorite part of the museum was learning about fire marks and seeing memorabilia from the early days of property insurance. Now a collectible item, these marks on homes let firefighters know which homes were covered by fire insurance or supported the volunteer companies. The history of fire marks and property insurance in America is fascinating. It reminded me of the movie Gangs of New York. So cool to see the fire marks in person.
Hours and Info
FREE and open to the public. Walk-ins welcome.
Open Tuesday – Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Closed on Sunday, Monday and all city holidays.
Free to all, but donations are appreciated. Make a donation to the museum HERE. There’s a small amount of merch to buy too, like ornaments and books on fire safety. We bought a few children’s books about fire safety and having a plan in case of emergency.
Unique Event Space Too
Find information about hosting your next event at the Fireman’s Hall Museum. Sometimes the least obvious places are the best spots to host. Book the Fireman’s Hall Museum for:
Class ReunionsCocktail ReceptionsCorporate EventsFundraisersHoliday PartiesOffice PartiesTeam Building EventsTraining & Seminars