- Wikidata identifier:
- Q85831650
- Instance of:
- firefighting museum; local authority museum
- Museum/collection status:
- Accredited museum
- Accreditation number:
- 2274
- Persistent shareable link for this record:
- https://museumdata.uk/museums/q85831650/
Collection-level records:
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Collection history (Collection development policy)
The museum collects objects relating to the history and development of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) and its predecessors. This includes private brigades (e.g., stately homes, works brigades) and former local district and borough brigades within Essex boundaries (including those transferred to the London Fire Brigade in 1965). After 1965, these brigades’ histories are covered by the London Fire Brigade Museum, although the museum may still display relevant items for context.
The museum’s primary objective is to record firefighting history in Essex. However, material from outside Essex may be considered if it is historically relevant or enhances the overall story. Unusual or novelty fire-related items may also be considered to engage visitors.
Source: Collection development policy
Date: 2025
Licence: CC BY-NC
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Collection overview (Collection development policy)
The collections range from the 1800’s to the present day, covering firefighting during the Victorian era, both World Wars, and post-war developments. They can be considered under the following headings:
Archives
Extensive records include manuals, photographs, training notes, maps, and firefighters’ service histories.
Artwork
Models of firefighting equipment and fire engines illustrate equipment construction and usage.
Equipment
Objects include hoses, branches, nozzles, fire extinguishers, corridor pumps, and manual pumps—essentially “small gear.” It also encompasses personal protective equipment such as uniforms, helmets, and chemical protection suits.
Working Collection
This mainly consists of (non-roadworthy) fire engines maintained at the museum. One vehicle (a 1960s Turntable Ladder Fire Engine) is serviced by ECFRS workshops and used for firefighter funerals and outreach. A separate policy (appendix of the Care and Conservation Policy) governs these working objects. The museum also has a set of objects specifically for loan boxes, which can be handled without risk to the main collection.
Source: Collection development policy
Date: 2025
Licence: CC BY-NC