Orgmetsa fire station

from 1920s

The fire station was built in 1928 in Orgmetsa village, Järva-Madise parish. It was brought to the museum in 1991. Such fire stations of medium size were built by rural firefighters’ societies in major Estonian villages in 1920s–1930s. Orgmetsa fire station belonged to the Aravete-Albu volunteer firefighters’ society founded in 1921. It was used to store manual fire engines with carts, barrels of water, fire hooks etc. Hoses could be dried   in the tower, where the fire bell was located as well. If necessary, firefighters could go to place up to 10 kilometres from the fire station.


Did you know?

  • On top of the fire station tower we can see a galvanised tin weathercock with years ‘1921’ (when the local firefighting organisation was founded) and ‘1928’ (when the fire station was built).
  • Fire stations had fire bells either in the tower or on the wall outside. Whoever noticed a fire or needed help, would hurry to ring it. The key of the fire station would be kept in one of the neighbouring houses.
  • Volunteer firefighters’ societies were important social activity promoters in rural areas. They would often have a brass band and organise parties, concerts and lotteries.
  • Firefighters’ societies also had female members who took care of the fire station premises. They would also provide catering as well as organise entertainment and lotteries during parties. Women-firefighters had uniforms, too.