Why Visit the Fire Museum of Texas?
The best reason to visit this historical fire museum is for the stories. The museum features an impressive collection of antique fire trucks and a fun photo opportunity with a hydrant fit for Clifford the Big Red Dog’s dalmatian counterpart. However, the main attraction is wrapping your mind around the beginnings of this noble profession. Technology is so impressive today that it’s hard to imagine how the brave firefighters of the past (human and non-human) stopped fires using the equipment featured in the museum exhibits.
A Great Field Trip for These Topics:
- Emergency Preparedness
- Community Helpers
- Fire Safety
- History
Quick Info:
400 Walnut St
Beaumont, TX 77701
Monday-Friday: 8:00am-4:30pm
Saturday-Sunday: Closed
Admission: Free (Donations Appreciated)
What Can You Expect to See & Do at The Fire Museum of Texas?
The museum sits inside a historic fire station built in 1927, with some exhibits dating back to the mid-1800s. Expect to spend 1-2 hours exploring the two-story building. (The top floor is mainly for kids.)
A Few Highlights:
The World’s Largest Working Fire Hydrant donated to the museum by Disney from the relaunch of 101 Dalmatians.
Historical Exhibits featuring antique fire trucks and various artifacts and items of interest.
Interactive Exhibits include a uniform dress-up area with a fire truck cab you can climb into, and a two-story fire safety playhouse.
Firefighting Animals, learn about the importance of working horses and dogs in the fire department’s history.
President LBJ’s 1915 LaFrance Fire Engine, used at the LBJ Ranch National Historical Park in central Texas.
A 911 Memorial is on the plaza just outside the museum.
Tips for Visitors
- If you’re unable to visit in person, a virtual tour can be found here.
- Check out their gift shop for unique firefighting themed items (including gifts for the dog.)
- Go here for special events. (The fire hydrant actually works! Contact the museum for more info on when they will be running this feature.)
Fire Museum of Texas Video Overview
More Fun & Activities:
Picture Books:
- Clifford the Firehouse Dog by Norman Bridwell
- Pete the Cat: Firefighter Pete by James Dean and Kimberly Dean
Readers:
- DK Readers: Fire Fighter! by Angela Royston
- Teacher Created Materials – TIME For Kids: A Day in the Life of a Firefighter by Dona Herweck
Hands On:
- Melissa & Doug Fire Chief Role Play Costume Set
- Lego City Fire Station
