The Museum

The Museum was acquired from the City Council and City Fathers in 1982 and was set up as The South Yorkshire Fire Service Historical Society. The building had stood derelict for many years and fire-fighters from the South Yorkshire Brigade began to refurbish the Victorian Police and Fire Station so that a permanent home would be found for the vast range of fire service related memorabilia that was sitting in attics and local fire stations all over the county. By August 1985 the museum was ready to open it's doors. Though much work has been done, there is still a tremendous amount to be done to restore all the rooms to full use. Incidentally, the first job ever tackled was the eviction of squatters in the shape of a flock of pigeons. Some years later a new 'infestation' has arisen. There is now a problem with grey squirrels which now infest the city centre!

Entry to the Museum is through the Police section of the building, next to which are the cells which once housed many of Sheffield's villains and members of the infamous 'Sheffield Gang Wars'. This area is now being renovated and displays from the South Yorkshire Police are being put together by enthusiastic off duty officers. From here one can access the cafe, where in the colder months a real log fire warms the visitor. The Museum shop has a range of toys, souvenirs etc. at pocket money prices. For the serious collector there are a selection of brass and pewter figurines especially created for the Museum. There are a range of model fire engines, some of which are limited editions. All proceeds from the shop go towards the funding of the Museum's work.

The Engine House and Yard contain one of the finest collections of fire-fighting appliances ever assembled in this country. It includes examples from the 18th century through to the late 1980's. Here too is a children's play area where our younger visitors can use a small 'pole drop' and mount a replica 'Dennis'.

Above: One of the many items in the first floor exhibition room.

The Oldham Lamp Battery Charger in the engine house.

The Fire and Police Museum is a registered educational charity. (Charity No. 515105) In September 1998, the Museum won the prestigious 'Best Volunteer Run Museum' in Yorkshire and Humberside. Of special interest to Fire Brigade memorabilia collectors are the two sales held each year. Here, one can buy anything from a button to a complete fire engine.

The museum is open every Sunday and Bank holiday throughout the year from 11.00am to 5.00pm. Visits outside these hours are by pre-arrangement only. To find out more about the museum and the many services it offers, telephone 0114 249 1999, (The office is manned periodically from 10.30am to 4.30pm), or write to: The Fire and Police Museum (Sheffield), Peter House, 101-109 West Bar, Sheffield. S3 8TP. UK.