Minnesota Fire Engine Club Launches Fundraiser for Permanent Home and Museum
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA— The Minnesota Fire Engine Club, a passionate group of hobbyists dedicated to preserving and showcasing retired fire apparatus, has launched an ambitious fundraising campaign called Operation Forever Home. The campaign aims to raise $500,000 to establish a permanent facility where historical firefighting equipment can be restored, stored, and displayed for public education and appreciation.
A Passion for Firefighting History
Founded to honor and maintain the legacy of firefighting, the Minnesota Fire Engine Club consists of individuals from various backgrounds, including retired firefighters, fire buffs, and enthusiasts eager to learn more about this unique hobby. The club owns and operates fully functional retired fire apparatus, participating in community events such as parades, public demonstrations, and historical reenactments.
Volunteers engage in a range of activities, from restoring vintage fire trucks to performing equipment demonstrations. The club offers opportunities for hands-on experiences, such as drafting water from lakes or streams, raising ladders, and vehicle maintenance. Members, regardless of age or background, can join and contribute as much time as they wish to this strictly volunteer-based organization.
The Need for a Forever Home
Since securing 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2017, the Minnesota Fire Engine Club has steadily grown in membership and impact. The club has supported communities across Minnesota by attending city celebrations, birthday parties, and public safety events. However, as the collection of historical fire apparatus has expanded, so has the need for a dedicated space to house and maintain the equipment.
The goal of Operation Forever Home is to establish a museum and operational headquarters where club members can continue restoring vintage fire engines and educate the public on firefighting history. The proposed facility will serve as a hub for community engagement, offering interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences for visitors.
Fundraising Efforts
To make this vision a reality, the Minnesota Fire Engine Club is calling on individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute to Operation Forever Home. The $500,000 fundraising goal will cover the cost of purchasing land, preparing the site, and constructing the museum. Donations will ensure that historical fire apparatus remain preserved and accessible for future generations.
Rough drawing of the museum and shop from an update from the Club on January 16, 2025.
“We need everyone’s help to make this possible,” the club states. “Every contribution brings us one step closer to securing a permanent home where we can continue our mission of educating the public and keeping our firefighting heritage alive.”
How to Get Involved
Membership in the Minnesota Fire Engine Club is open to all, with an annual fee of just $20. The club welcomes anyone with an interest in firefighting history, whether they own a fire apparatus or simply wish to support the organization’s mission. Events primarily take place in the spring, summer, and early fall, while the winter months are dedicated to restoring and maintaining equipment.
Those interested in supporting Operation Forever Home can make donations through the club’s GoFundMe campaign: https://gofund.me/eb3c1130.
With community support, the Minnesota Fire Engine Club hopes to turn Operation Forever Home into a reality, ensuring that the rich history of firefighting continues to inspire and educate for generations to come.
You can also follow the Minnesota Fire Engine Club on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Written by: Will Wight
Photo Credit: Minnesota Fire Engine Club