Fire Museum

In 1981, the East Hartford Fire Department made their vintage, 1940 Fire Engine the centerpiece of a museum, located in the backyard of Engine Company 6.
---That they moved an entire garage from Silver Lane to its present location in order to house this showcase proves the dedication of those involved.
---What makes this engine so unique is the fact that it has never been restored from its original condition. Not even repainted. What you see is the authentic vehicle as it was in the1940s, scars and all. Because of this authenticity, it has won many awards at fire musters across the state. On special occasions, you can see this proud machine in parades.
---The museum itself is a treasure-house of memorabilia from East Hartford's Fire Department past. You can see faces from long ago. The tools of the trade. Old uniforms and group pictures. You can't view this collection without appreciating the camaraderie that existed then, as it does now, among those who dedicate their lives for public safety.
---And after you visit, that's what you walk away with. A sense of dedication, and often deep personal sacrifice - a legacy given to us all by the fire fighters who make this town a safer place to live in.
---During Fire Prevention Week, school groups are given tours of both the station at Engine Company 6, and the museum. They are also treated to demonstrations meant to instill serious respect for fire safety.
---The museum is open for viewing by visitor request. You can just stop by at Company 6 and someone will gladly show you around. For group tours, contact the Fire Chief's Office at (860) 528-4171 to make special arrangements.

The address is:

Miscellaneous Information
133 uniformed personnel and four civilians make up the full time staff of the East Hartford Fire Department. There are 5 firehouses located throughout the 18 square miles of town. The East Hartford Fire Department operates 5 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, 1 rescue company, 1 paramedic unit and 1 incident command vehicle. The department responded to 7,990 emergencies in 2002.
---In addition to fighting fires the department plays a major role in the delivery of emergency medical services. Each piece of apparatus carries an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Each firefighter is trained at a minimum of Basic Life Support (BLS) care. One third of the department's firefighters are paramedics.

See Photos.

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Photos from Fire Museum (Click photos to enlarge.)

		1940 Fire Engine, showpiece of the Fire Museum.
		In the driver's seat.
		A collection of equipment.
		A wall of memorabilia.
		A display of trophies.
		More equipment, including a fireproof suit.

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