The Wandering Disciple

While technology has changed throughout the years, some of the tools of the fire service remain unchanged throughout the years. Here on the walls of the Tampa Firefighters Museum, the major tools of the trade are on display for all to see.  Located in historic Fire House 1, the Tampa Firefighters Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the Tampa Fire Department. Historic tools and equipment pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served the TFD and the City of Tampa.  Taken: October 19, 2013 at Tampa Firefighters Museum (Tampa, FL)

"Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear." The powerful quote by Ambrose Redmoon is the centerpiece of the fallen firefighter memorial at the Tampa Firefighter Museum. This tribute to the heroes is a constant reminder of the extreme sacrifices made by public servants not only in Tampa but worldwide. (Photo: October 19, 2013)

Before cell phones, fire alarm boxes like this were how to activate emergency services in the event of the fire.  These boxes were located on busy street corners to give citizens the ability to get help during an emergency.  With advancements in technology, these call boxes are no longer in service and many have found permanent home in museums like this one in the Tampa Firefighter Museum.  (Photo: October 19, 2013)

Serving the City of Tampa for over sixty years, the former main station saw the fire service transform from horse drawn apparatus to modern day fire engines. While it was retired for a more modern station in 1974, today this historic station serves as the home of the Tampa Firefigter Museum and showcases the rich history of the department. (Photo: July 18, 2010)

An antique fire truck sits on display at the Tampa Firefighters Museum, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the Tampa Fire Department. The museum, housed in a historic fire house, covers the history of the department from its inception through present day. (Photo: October 19, 2013)

Tampa Fire Department’s Truck 42 “Little Mack” is on display at the Tampa Firefighters Museum. Located in a historic firehouse, Tampa Firefighters Museum houses photos and memorabilia highlighting the of the Tampa Fire Department. (Photo: October 19, 2013)

Tampa, Florida: For over a hundred years, the men and women of the Tampa Fire Department have been protecting the citizens of Tampa. The Tampa Firefighters Museum was opened to honor those brave firefighters who risk all to keep Tampa safe. The Tampa Fire Department was formed in 1895 by a resolution passed by the city council. The department started with just 22 firefighters and hand drawn pumpers. Today the department has grown to 22 stations staffed by more then 600 firefighters. A museum of tell the story of the Tampa Fire Department opened in 2008. From within the walls of the historic station, the museum has exhibits that show how Tampa FD has evolved over the years. Here you can see bunker gear from past and present, antique fire engines, and tools of the trade from throughout the years. There is also a memorial for those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The museum is housed in the original 1911 fire station. This historic station was the main stati...