Many visitors to the Hershey Harrisburg Region know about the great chocolate attractions of Hershey, the beautiful Capitol in Harrisburg, and the fantastic wineries and breweries spread throughout the area. However, if that’s all you know of the region, you’ve merely scratched the surface of the many wonderful things to do in the area.
Whether you’re coming to town for the Pennsylvania Fire Expo (to be held May 16 at the PA Farm Show Complex and Expo Center) or just looking for something different to do in Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum is a great place to visit. Image may be NSFW.
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Located in a restored 19thcentury firehouse, the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum houses an amazing collection of restored fire engines and firefighting equipment dating back as far as 1792. Whether you love fire engines or just enjoy antique automobiles, the pieces at the museum are sure to impress.
In addition to a great collection of antique fire engines, the museum also features information on the history of firefighting. Using displays and pictures, you can learn about the history of firefighting and fire prevention. For example, one display talks about the different steps Harrisburg has taken to improve fire safety and talks about steps you can take to stay safe in a fire. This can be a great way to introduce or reinforce fire safety with kids.
On the second floor, there is a large 911 alarm system from Johnstown. The still functioning system gives you a great look into the history of fire alarms and anchors a room filled with old fire alarms and call boxes.
The rest of the upstairs is dedicated to a variety of firefighting equipment from years past with particular attention paid to flags and other memorabilia from local Harrisburg fire stations. Also of particular interest is a display about firefighting during the Civil War. Because most of the able-bodied men and equipment were away fighting, the tactics used to fight fires had to be altered. This display gives you a great chance to understand the impact the war had on how fires were fought and the advancements that led to modern firefighting.
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PA National Fire Museum
The Pennsylvania National Fire Museum really is a great place for all ages and those with any interest in fire fighting or simply history in general. The museum is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10am to 4pm and on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm.
If you’re feeling a bit hungry after your visit to the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum, head over to the Fire House Restaurant. Located in another restored 18th century fire station, the Fire House restaurant offers a great mix of New American food sure to satisfy even a hungry firefighter.
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