Ghost Hunt – National Emergency Services Museum
Housed in one of the UK’s first purpose-built in the heart of Sheffield. This fascinating Victorian building has served through both World Wars and seen active service through the years of the Sheffield Gang Wars.
Building work
Began on this fantastic site around 1886, with the station opening in 1900. This combined police, fire and ambulance station was a pioneering establishment that embodied efficiency and innovation. A notable feature is one of the few remaining Fire Brigade observation towers in the United Kingdom.
In its early days, the station’s top floor provided accommodation for firefighters, illustrating the dedication and commitment of those who served. With firefighters essentially living on-site during their shifts, the station became not just a workplace but a home.
Changes
Over the years, the station underwent numerous alterations to accommodate evolving operational requirements, including the addition of glass roofs.
However, as the demand for ambulance services grew, the station underwent changes, with the ambulance service relocating in 1913. Despite this shift, the fire service continued to operate from the building until 1924, facing challenges posed by emerging technologies such as motor vehicles.
History
The building still has some of its original features, like the police cells, engine house, and fireman’s bedroom, which stand proud. The building, originally home to the Sheffield Police and Fire Brigade, remained in operation as a Police Station until 1965.
The museum, as it stands today, opened in 1984 and houses a collection of over 600,000 objects.
