Ypsilanti in Washtenaw County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Facing the Fire
at the Michigan Firehouse Museum
Photographed By Joel Seewald, October 6, 2017
1. Facing the Fire at the Michigan Firehouse Museum Marker
Something had to be done.
Constructed in 1898 and in service for over 75 years, this firehouse combined two separate volunteer fire companies into one centalized fire station. A paid department and a dedicated building represented a major commitment by the city to protect its citizens from the ravages of fire. From its doors, brave firefighters - first on horse drawn fire rigs and then motorized vehicles - would dash to the fire in an effort to save lives and property.
Today, this towering landmark welcomes you
to the Michigan Firehouse Museum. Nearly 30,000 square feet of display area is devoted to the preservation of fire-fighting history and to the promotion of fire safety.
You Auto Know
From the firehouse tower, firemen could watch out for fires across the town. Also, in the tower, wet firehoses could be hung to dry.
Erected by Motorcities National Heritage Area, National Park Service.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Charity & Public Work.
this page online
Location. 42° 14.754′ N, 83° 36.849′ W. Marker is in Ypsilanti, Michigan, in Washtenaw County. Marker is at the intersection of West Cross Street (State Highway 17) and North Huron Street on West Cross Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 110 West Cross Street, Ypsilanti MI 48197, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Ypsilanti High School World War Memorial (within shouting distance of this marker); First Presbyterian Church (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); In Loving Memory of Carpenters Post No. 180 (about 400 feet away); First City Hall (about 400 feet away); 100 Years of Free Public Education (about 500 feet away); Ladies' Literary Club House (about 500 feet away); 107th Field Signal Battalion U.S.A. / World War Memorial (about 500 feet away); Ypsilanti (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ypsilanti.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, October 6, 2017
2. Upper left image
In the early days, the fire station was home to fire equipment, horses, and firemen. Photo courtesy of the Michigan Firehouse Museum.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, October 6, 2017
3. Lower left image
With the elimination of the use of horses in 1916, the building could house more vehicles and provide even more fire protection to the growing community. Photo courtesy of the Michigan Firehouse Museum.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, October 6, 2017
4. Middle image
By 1940, faster and more powerful fire engines allowed for mutual aid between Ypsilanti and neighboring Ann Arbor. Photo courtesy of the Michigan Firehouse Museum.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, October 6, 2017
5. Right image
This museum is dedicated to those who answer the call to protect your lives and property. You are welcome to join the thousands of visitors each year who pay tribute to this noble cause.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, October 6, 2017
6. The Michigan Firehouse Museum and marker
Marker is to the left, near the old firehouse.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, October 12, 2016
7. The Michigan Firehouse Museum and marker
Marker is just right of the old firehouse.
Michigan Firehouse Museum website homepage:
Click for more information.
Michigan Firehouse Museum website homepage:
Click for more information.
Credits. This page was last revised on May 23, 2022. It was originally submitted on October 7, 2016, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. This page has been viewed 268 times since then and 13 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on October 7, 2016, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. 7. submitted on October 13, 2016, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.
