Archives
Through the Years
The inception of Winnipeg’s fire brigade was unusual compared to many other volunteer brigades in North America. Brigades in other cities were typically made up of citizens from the working class, seeking adventure, status, comradeship, or a means of serving their community. In Winnipeg, property owners, concerned with either skyrocketing fire insurance rates or the refusal of insurance companies to provide any coverage, joined forces in a gesture of self-help. Their objective was to protect their properties from fire.
Here you will find detailed records of notable firefighting events, categorized chronologically by time period.
1873-1899
The inception and growth of Winnipeg’s fire fighting brigades.
1900-1914
Expansion of fire fighting services, with new stations built throughout the City.
1915-1940
Equipment upgrades, Fire Prevention Bureau organized. Last years of horse-drawn apparatus.
1946-1968
Working conditions improved because of new 3-platoon system. Fire Prevention Division organized. Infamous St. Boniface Basilica fire.
1969-1999
Amalgamation of eight local fire departments into one system. Deadly Fort Garry Court fire. First computer-aided dispatch system in North America used by the Winnipeg Fire Department. Museum officially opens to the public at 56 Maple Street.
Have something to add?
If you are in possession of artifacts, documents, or photos relating to the fire fighting service, please do not hesitate to reach out to us and consider donating to our collection.
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The Winnipeg Firefighters Museum aims to entertain and educate our visitors about the current processes and historical stories of the fire service. The museum relies on your donations in order to continue with the mission of the Winnipeg Firefighters Historical Society. Please follow the link below to make a secure, charitable donation.
Winnipeg Firefighters Museum
56 Maple Street / Honourary Firefighter Way
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
R3B 0Y8
Charitable Registration # 119232957RR0001
Phone: (1) 204-942-4817
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