Preserving a legacy.
Inspiring the future.
Preserving a legacy.
Inspiring the future.
The Midwest Museum of Firefighting is a powerful initiative to transform West Bend’s soon-to-be-vacated firehouse into a dynamic cultural destination. It will house one of the nation’s largest collections of firefighting apparatus and memorabilia from the past century.
The museum’s premier exhibits will be built around a generous donation of the complete Venerable Fire Collection, one of the country’s most authentically restored collections of fire apparatus.
More than a museum, it will honor the bravery of firefighters, preserve a century of innovation, and spark community pride across the Midwest.
Our mission is to honor the legacy of firefighters, celebrate ingenuity within firefighting technology, and preserve a vital piece of American history for generations to come.
The Midwest Museum of Firefighting is a powerful initiative to transform West Bend’s soon-to-be-vacated firehouse into a dynamic cultural destination. It will house one of the nation’s largest collections of firefighting apparatus and memorabilia from the past century.
The museum’s premier exhibits will be built around a generous donation of the complete Venerable Fire Collection, one of the country’s most authentically restored collections of fire apparatus.
More than a museum, it will honor the bravery of firefighters, preserve a century of innovation, and spark community pride across the Midwest.
Our mission is to honor the legacy of firefighters, celebrate ingenuity within firefighting technology, and preserve a vital piece of American history for generations to come.
Giving
Financial support is critical to the successful renovation and public launch of the museum. Every dollar brings us closer to opening the doors of the Midwest Museum of Firefighting in 2027.
While the Venerable Fire Collection is worthy of national acclaim, it is underappreciated in its current facility. Your commitment ensures that this remarkable collection will become part of a dynamic, nationally recognized public institution and educational resource.
Right now, history remains locked away. Join us in the crucial step to unlocking and preserving American heritage.
About the Museum
Continuing in a tradition of local fire museums housed in former firehouses, the museum will be established in a prominent public venue: the former City of West Bend Fire Department.
This move efficiently transforms the space into the ideal setting to honor the legacy of brave firefighters and celebrate the evolution of the fire service spanning three centuries. By doing so, the project not only preserves a vital piece of history but also positions West Bend as a must-visit cultural destination.
The Venerable Fire Collection
At the heart of the museum is the Venerable Fire Collection, one of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive collections of 19th and 20th-century fire service apparatus and memorabilia.
Restored Apparatus
Marvel at fully restored fire engines, water tower trucks, steam-powered pumpers, and rare chemical wagons spanning the late 1800s to the 1950s. Every piece showcases exquisite craftsmanship, often featuring authentic 22-karat gold leaf detailing.
Technological History
Witness a unique, operational street alarm system demo. This interactive feature illustrates how initial alarms were triggered, guiding teams to fire locations and providing a step-by-step explanation of early emergency response.
Global Artifacts
Explore a rich display of rare helmets, uniforms, and gear from across the U.S. and Europe, documenting the evolution of fire service heritage and tradition.
Features to Explore
The museum is designed to be fully engaging for all ages, offering hands-on experiences that bring the history of the fire service to life.
Interactive Learning
Step into Educational Spaces where kids can try on firefighter turnout gear, “steer” a tiller truck, and learn about the science behind preventing and fighting fires.
Mock Fire Station
Experience life in a 1900s firehouse, complete with a ticker-tape dispatch system and other historic features.
Event Space
Host visitors and guests for special events, school field trips, or community functions.