Bridging the Past & the Future
It has been years since any preservation or restoration work has been completed within the historic firehouse. The building is in urgent need of repair. Structural problems, such as interior and exterior wall cracks, and water intrusion, threaten the landmark with decay. The building’s iconic façade holds many issues that need to be addressed to preserve the historical architecture for future generations. Additionally, the visitor experience was hindered by accessibility issues, no centralized air conditioning system, and non-ADA-compliant restrooms. Due to these conditions, the museum could no longer accommodate visitors safely and comfortably.
In partnership with REPRACTICE architecture, Tellepsen Builders, and D/G Studios, the Trustees of the Houston Fire Museum have developed a plan to restore and preserve “Old 7’s,” while also enhancing indoor spaces to support innovative, educational, and community programming, as well as developing a Museum Exhibit Masterplan.
Old 7’s – Bridging the Past & the Future Capital Campaign has been established to raise the $8,000,000 project goal. The Museum is grateful and honored to have Camden Property Trust as our lead donor, generously donating $1,000,000 towards the campaign.
The Museum is seeking contributions from its members and the Houston community in support of the historic preservation and museum enhancements. Working together, “Old 7’s” will be further restored to its former glory and continue to reflect the pride of our city and the Houston Fire Department.
May we count on you to support this important preservation project? Please consider making a gift that will enable the Houston Fire Museum and its legacy to continue for years to come.
All gifts are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.
Please contact Kate Ryther Executive Director at kate@houstonfiremuseum.org for additional information.
The Houston Fire Museum’s greatest “artifact” is its physical home. Housed in historic Fire Station No. 7, it was the city’s first station built specifically for Houston’s original paid fire department in 1899. The building, fondly called “Old 7’s,” is Houston’s oldest historic fire station still standing. In 1986 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1988.