Old Station No. 4
51 Bedford Street (Corner of Sixth Street)
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-992-2162
9 a.m. 4 p.m. 7 days a week
June-August, Admission: $2.00
The New Bedford Fire Museum is a unique place dedicated to the preservation of the development of urban fire fighting technology, equipment, and organizations.
The museum is located in Old Fire Station No. 4, an authentic fire house and features restored vehicles, uniforms to try on, bells to ring, and poles to slide down. Old Fire Station No. 4 was built in 1867 and was possibly the oldest continuously working fire station in the country until 1979. A portion of the station house is still used for emergency medical vehicles.
Among the museum collection are several restored antique fire trucks, including an 1840 hand-pump engine. The collection also includes antique records and ledgers, historic pieces of fire equipment, and mementos and antecdotes of early New Bedford fire fighting history.
The museum is staffed by active and retired fire fighters who volunteer their time to run the museum.
Although the New Bedford Fire Museum has been in operation for over 20 years, it's probably the best kept secret in New Bedford. A visit to the city isn't complete without a stop here.
The New Bedford Fire Museum Association is a non-profit educational organization offering a range of historical and educational programs. The museum is funded completely by donations and admission fees.
