The African American Firefighter Museum (AAFM) is located in Chicago, Illinois at 5349 S. Wabash Ave. The museum chronicles the hard-fought struggles and achievements of Black firefighters in their quest to serve their communities. Since it opened in 2012, the AAFM has provided a unique glimpse into the African American’s history in firefighting, focusing on the contributions and triumphs of African Americans throughout the country.
With its dynamic interactive exhibits, this museum celebrates the legacy of African American fire fighters whose dedication and sacrifice have been instrumental in protecting America’s communities. The museum highlights individuals whose contributions range from founding the first African American firehouse to developing the first safety manual for crews, and numerous other accomplishments.
Visitors of all ages can learn about this important history through striking visual displays, photographs and artifacts about African American firefighting organizations, uniforms, gear and tools. The interactive exhibits take visitors on a journey through time as they learn about early volunteer jobs, training procedures and living conditions of Black fire fighters from past generations. The museum also offers a pop-up activity space for visitors to create a DIY firefighter look or use a laser cutter to customize historic fire helmets and shields.
The African American Firefighter Museum introduces visitors to the iconic figures who made their mark on the firefighting profession. Notable figures highlighted include Washington D.C. Mayor Marion Barry, who helped to increase safety standards in the department, firefighter and journalist Mayannah Coleman, and Nick Weatherspoon, former president of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters. Each person showcased at the museum made significant contributions to their respective departments that are still felt today.
The museum’s commitment to preserving and honoring African American firefighters’ history has earned it numerous awards and nominations. AAFM is part of Chicago’s South Shore Cultural Center, and also hosts programs for students including ARBOR (African Roots in Benefit of our Resilience). Through these activities, students learn about modern developments in firefighting technology and explore the many ways firefighters are making an impact in their communities today.
The AAFM is an inspiring reminder of just how much African Americans have achieved within the fire service profession, despite facing tremendous prejudice and environmental barriers. Come explore this amazing history for yourself at the African American Firefighter Museum – you won’t regret it! Take a trip back through time and get inspired to make positive change in your own community!