Friendship Firehouse Museum
The Friendship Fire Company was established in 1774, as the first volunteer fire company in Alexandria. The current firehouse was built in 1855, was substantially remodeled in 1871, and was restored by the City of Alexandria in 1992.
In a town of mostly wooden buildings, where open flames provided heat, light and cooking on a daily basis, fire was a constant danger. The Friendship, Sun, Relief, Hydraulion and other local volunteer fire companies served the community faithfully, particularly during enormous blazes in 1827, 1855, 1871, and 1922. Some of their stories and equipment are preserved today in the Friendship Firehouse Museum.
Events at the Friendship Firehouse Museum
- On Monday, February 20, the day of the George Washington Birthday Parade, stop by the historic firehouse and tour for free between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Also on Parade Day, join the Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association for their annual breakfastat the Holiday Inn at 625 First Street. See George Washington at his first appearance of the day and hear guest speaker General Barry McCaffrey.
- This spring, explore Alexandria's firefighting heritage on "Blazing a Trail: Alexandria’s Firefighting History Walking Tour." Tours will be held on Saturday, April 14 and Saturday, May 12 so be sure to purchase your tickets soon!
- The Friendship Firehouse Festival. The Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association holds its annual Firehouse Festival each year on the first Saturday in August. The popular family event features antique fire apparatus, craft booths, displays by Alexandria merchants, and live music.
- The Father's Day Open House. Friendship Firehouse offers special tours for Fathers on Father’s Day., on the third Sunday in June.
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