The Fire Fighters Historical Society was formed in 1982, in preparation for the Winnipeg Fire Department’s centenary, by a group of fire fighters intent on collecting and preserving material related to the fire service. Subsequently, the museum was created, utilizing a former working firehall (in service from 1904 to 1990).
Located at 56 Maple Street, we offer a glimpse of what fire fighting was like from the 1874 volunteer-era to the present day.
Current (2021) volunteer Board Members include: Mike Lisowick (President), Terry Brisley, Brad Enders, Jon Kuryluk, Ted Kuryluk, Jason Loboz, Art Mitchelson, Ken Sim, Tara Stokotelny
Our Mission
To work towards the establishment of a permanent fire museum here in Winnipeg. We see this facility as a learning centre for fire safety and awareness for children and adults. We want to discover and collect materials and artifacts relating to the local fire service. We want to preserve such material and make it accessible to all who wish to study it. We wish to cultivate and encourage public interest in fire service history.
Our Stories
How many people know of the wonderful fire department horse that refused to be retired and followed the motorized fire apparatus to fires, pulling his milk wagon along? Has anyone heard of our colourful Chief McRobie, who insisted that his horse accompany him for a beer inside a local saloon after every fire?
Some people feel that our Museum, at 56 Maple, has its own “resident ghost”. In 1915, Peter McRae, a young fire fighter fell to his death as he slid down a pole while responding to a fire.
With many of these wonderful tales to tell, how can we, as a city, deny our citizens and guests the right to relive these moments in history.
Your Donations Keep Our Engines Running
The Winnipeg Fire Museum aims to entertain and educate our visitors about the current processes and historical stories of the fire service and the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service.
The Firefighter’s Historical Society of Winnipeg aims to discover, collect, preserve, refurbish, and/or re-build significant equipment, apparatus, and materials related to the history and heritage of the local fire service, and promote and encourage public interest, accessibility, and appreciation for the fire profession.
The Winnipeg Fire Museum relies on your donations in order to continue with our mission. Please follow the link below to make a secure, charitable donation.