Welcome...
Please bare with us as we continue to develop our website. Our completed site will maintain a video archive, photo gallery, list of current events relating to KC Fire Museum and an area promoting fire safety for kids in a fun way.
Mission Statement
The K.C. Fire Historical Society’s mission is to preserve and relate the history and artifacts of the Kansas City Fire Department and the evolution of firefighting technology; provide effective fire safety and prevention education for both children and adults; and inspire in all an appreciation for firefighters as a helpful community resource.
Brief History of KCFD
In 1868 the Kansas City Fire Department began its illustrious history when the John Campbell No. 1 was put in service at the first fire station No. 1 on 1312 Union Ave. Over the next 14 years the KC Fire Department organized and grew.
In 1882 George C. Hale was appointed Fire Chief of the KCFD. During his 31 year tenure he became infamous for is inventive mind, expansion of the department, and his victory at the International Fire Congress in Europe.
Chief Hale revolutionized fire fighting with his many inventions. He held 63 patents in the U.S. alone, and another 10 patents in Canada.
Some of his inventions include the Hale Water Tower, the Swinging Harness, the Rotary Tin Roof Cutter, and Telephone Fire Alarm.
Brief History of KC Fire Museum
The grass roots effort of preserving our history began in June 1988 in the forming of the non-profit corporation titled Kansas City Fire Brigade Museum.
Artifacts and records where collected and donated in the effort of saving our history. Two years later the fire museum moved into station number 10 at 1019 Cherry.
Since 1990 the museum has thrived in old station 10. In 2008 the board partnered with Union Station in developing one of the best fire museums in the country.
Currently we have a temporary exhibit in the northwest corner of Union Station. We are pursuing a $1.6 million fundraiser to develop the permanent display. This will allow us to house all four fire apparutus and equipment. When complete we will have many exhibits related to fire history, equipment, and general safety as well as a children's fire safety area.
