Department Spotlight
by Theresa Dardanell
Frederick County Fire & Rescue Museum
I’ve visited the Frederick County Fire and Rescue Museum twice this year because once was just not enough. There is so much to discover, not only about the equipment, apparatus, and artifacts, but more importantly, about the people who have dedicated their lives to protecting the residents of Frederick County.
Frederick County Fire and Rescue Museum President James Deater and Secretary Joy Deater gave me a tour of the museum, which is located in Emmitsburg at 300B South Seton Avenue, in a building that was previously occupied by the Emmitsburg Ambulance Company. Their knowledge of history is impressive and their enthusiasm is apparent.
The history of all twenty-six fire companies in Frederick County is on display. Some of the equipment is on loan to the museum. One example is the 1893 Hand-Drawn Hose Reel, a name which accurately describes its function. The fire hose was wrapped around the reel, which was pulled by hand by firefighters. The separate pumper carrying water was also pulled by hand to the fire. A 1939 Pumper, on loan from the United Steam Fire Engine Company No. 3, is also on display along with several other pumpers and hose reels.
Many of the artifacts have been donated for permanent display by firefighter families, fire and rescue companies, as well as the Frederick County Fire and Rescue Association and Maryland State Firemen’s Association. There are uniforms, helmets, firefighting gear, and equipment. One room holds early radio communications equipment and pictures. Hanging on a wall is a life net that was used to catch people who jumped from buildings to escape fires. Display cabinets contain newspaper clippings, photographs, and other historical objects. The Frederick County Fallen Firefighters and Rescue Personnel Memorial Wall, sponsored by Stauffer Funeral Homes PA, is a tribute to the twenty-three firefighters who died in the line of duty in Frederick County.
The building is also home to the National Fire Heritage Center, an organization committed to preserving the history of the American Fire Protection Services. The Heritage Center houses a collection of books, documents, and other historical items. Together with the museum, they are currently hosting the traveling exhibit of the National Smokejumper Association. On display is a fully outfitted smokejumper mannequin, along with firefighting tools and information panels. Later this summer, a new display will take its place.
The museum is open Saturdays and Sundays, from 12:00-4:00 p.m., April through October. However, tours are available by appointment at any time. Individuals and groups are always welcome. To arrange a special tour for a group, contact Jim Deater at 301-639-1290 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Put the museum on your list of places to visit this summer.
Jim and Joy Deater are shown seated in front of the 1893 Hand Drawn Hose Reel, which is on loan from the Independent Hose Company #1. In the background is the Frederick County Fallen Firefighters and Rescue Personnel Memorial Wall.
Jim and Joy Deater are shown seated in front of the 1893 Hand Drawn Hose Reel, which is on loan from the Independent Hose Company #1. In the background is the Frederick County Fallen Firefighters and Rescue Personnel Memorial Wall.