Who We Are
Years of Foundation
Visitors in 315 days
Artifacts Collected
About Our History
We are a volunteer community of practice dedicated to interpreting, educating and celebrating the history of firefighting in Canada’s capital and the country as a whole.Â
Formation of Bytown Fire Brigade
Incorporation
Bytown Fire Brigade is officially incorporated as a federally registered non-profit historical society.
Bytown Fire Brigade Museum Opens
The Brigade has lodged its collection in Station # 3 at Cumberland and Clarence (1987), Station # 6 at MacKay and Vaughan (1988) and purchased its current home in 1990 located at 1-2880 Sheffield Rd.
Community Engagement and Artifact Collection
Formation of Bytown Fire Brigade
Incorporation
Bytown Fire Brigade is officially incorporated as a federally registered non-profit historical society.
Bytown Fire Brigade Museum Opens
The Brigade has lodged its collection in Station # 3 at Cumberland and Clarence (1987), Station # 6 at MacKay and Vaughan (1988) and purchased its current home in 1990 located at 1-2880 Sheffield Rd.
Community Engagement and Artifact Collection
1980
Formation of Bytown Fire Brigade
Every cityâs history is written in the ashes of its many fires and Ottawa is no exception. To help preserve the fire heritage and the history of the Ottawa area, a group of concerned citizens from the business and professional community joined with area firefighters to create The Bytown Fire Brigade in the early 1980s.
1983
Incorporation
Bytown Fire Brigade is officially incorporated as a federally registered non-profit historical society.
1987
Bytown Fire Brigade Museum Opens
The Brigade has lodged its collection in Station # 3 at Cumberland and Clarence (1987), Station # 6 at MacKay and Vaughan (1988) and purchased its current home in 1990 located at 1-2880 Sheffield Rd.
2024
Community Engagement and Artifact Collection
The Bytown Fire Brigade is actively involved in community events, parades, and educational programs. The Brigade celebrates the firefighting community through its collection of antique fire apparatus and artifacts.
Our Mission & Vision
MISSIONÂ
The mission of The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society is to collect, preserve, conserve, restore, and display the artifacts and apparatus that tell the history of firefighting in Canadaâs capital and the country as a whole.
VISION
We are a volunteer community of practice motivated by personal experience, acquired knowledge, or innate interest, working collaboratively to serve, share, and celebrate the history of Canadaâs fire service.
VALUES
Best practices in our organization
Youth empowered to innovate and learn
Trust in all our relationships
Ownership of your brigade role
Wisdom is respected
No discrimination or harassment
Mission
Vision
Our Values
The Mission of The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society is to collect, preserve, conserve, restore and display the artifacts and apparatus that tell the history of firefighting in Canada's capital and the country as a whole.
We are a volunteer community of practice motivated by personal experience, acquired knowledge, or innate interest, working collaboratively to serve, share, and celebrate the history of Canada's fire service.
Best practices in our organization
Youth empowered to innovate and learn
Trust in all our relationships
Ownership of your brigade role
Wisdom is respected
No discrimination or harassment
The Formation and Impact of The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society
The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society , established in the early 1980s and incorporated in 1983, was created by local business leaders, professionals, and firefighters to preserve the fire heritage of Canada’s Capital Region. It boasts one of Canada’s largest collections of antique fire apparatus and opened The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society Museum in 1987. Despite challenges like the museum’s closure, the Brigade remained dedicated to preserving firefighting history through outreach and educational programs. This commitment honors the legacy and bravery of firefighters.
The Founders
Our Board of Directors
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Supporting Partners and Affiliations
At The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society, we understand the importance of collaboration and building strong partnerships to further our mission of preserving Canada's firefighting heritage and promoting fire safety awareness. Through strategic alliances and affiliations with various organizations, we amplify our impact and extend our reach across communities.
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Join Our Team of Volunteers
Ready to make a real impact? Join our team of passionate volunteers and be a part of positive change in your community. Together, we can make a difference that lasts.
Our Values
Best practices in our organization
Youth empowered to innovate and learn
Trust in all our relationships
Ownership of your brigade role
Wisdom is respected
No discrimination or harassment
Community Engagement
We actively participate in local events, forging connections with residents and organizations to spread awareness of firefighting heritage and safety.
Educational Programs
Through partnerships with schools and educational institutions, we develop innovative resources and kits to educate students on fire safety and historical preservation.
Events
We organize and participate in various events, including parades and festivals, to engage communities and celebrate the legacy of firefighters.
Community Services
Our brigade offers a range of community services, from educational outreach to support during emergencies, strengthening our bonds with local residents and organizations.
What People Say About Us

Nina Farell,
Ottawa ResidentEngaging with Bytown Fire Brigade has been an enlightening experience. Their commitment to preserving firefighting heritage and promoting safety is commendable.

John T,
School PrincipalThe educational programs offered by Bytown Fire Brigade have been instrumental in teaching our students about fire safety in a fun and interactive way.

Lisa K.,
Event CoordinatorAttending events organized by Bytown Fire Brigade has been a highlight for our community. Their dedication to celebrating the legacy of firefighters is truly inspiring.

Regine Wilson,
Local Business OwnerDuring times of need, Bytown Fire Brigade has been a reliable source of support for our community. Their community services go above and beyond, making a positive impact on our neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society?
The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society is a non-profit organization based in Ottawa, established on February 23, 1983. We serve as a local historical society dedicated to preserving the history or firefighting in Canada's capital and the country as a whole.
What is the mission of The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society?
The mission of The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society is to collect, preserve, conserve, restore, and display the artifacts and apparatus that tell the history of firefighting in Canadaâs capital and the country as a whole.
How does The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society preserve firefighting artifacts?
We acquire, restore, and display firefighting artifacts, including antique fire trucks, equipment, and memorabilia. Through careful preservation efforts, we ensure that these artifacts are accessible for future generations to learn from and appreciate.
What educational programs does The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Societyoffer?
We offer a range of educational programs tailored for schools and community groups. These programs cover topics such as fire safety, firefighting history, and the importance of preserving our heritage. Our Educational Discovery Kits, distributed to schools, are particularly popular.
How does The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society engage with the community?
We actively participate in local events, parades, and festivals to engage with residents and organizations. Additionally, we collaborate with schools, museums, and other community partners to spread awareness of firefighting heritage and safety practices.
Is The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society involved in emergency response activities?
We do not engage in emergency response activities like a traditional fire department. Our focus is to Interpret, Educate and Celebrate the history of firefighting in Canada's capital and the country as a whole.
How can I support The Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society?
There are several ways to support our organization, including volunteering your time, making a donation, or attending our events. Your support helps us continue our important work in preserving firefighting heritage and promoting fire safety awareness.
Contact Us
If you have any ideas, suggestions, questions or concerns please contact us via the contact form below.






















