Fire-fighting Museum in Olkusz
ul. Floriańska 8, 32-300 Olkusz
Tourist region: Jura Krakowsko-Częstochowska
tel. +48 781054552
The museum is a labour of love, of passion, and is the creation of long-time president of the Olkusz Volunteer Fire Department Stefan Ząbczyński’s zeal for collecting. Thanks to him, visitors today have a chance to admire antique pumps and firehoses and a World War II-era fire truck called ‘Jasek’. One of the most valuable exhibits is a 17th-century fire alarm bell, which used to ring in the church at the Augustinian monastery. The museum's collection also includes documents and photographs, banners, uniforms, medals, weapons and personal mementos of Olkusz firefighters. Among the helmets, one that catches the eye is the oldest, a leather one with golden fitting and a so-called crest that tops it. It dates back to 1888, and its owner is also known: the helmet belonged to Edward Chmielewski, the first Fire Chief of the Olkusz fire department.