Fort Lauderdale Fire Station No. 3 Restoration
Preserving Craftsmanship, Honoring History, and Keeping Fort Lauderdale’s Firefighting Legacy Alive
The Restoration Mission
Every project at the Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum contributes to the restoration of historic Fire Station No. 3 — a lasting tribute to craftsmanship, community, and the firefighters who served here.
From the hand-painted doors to the gleaming brass fire pole, every detail reflects a promise made in 1927: to serve and protect with pride. That promise continues through the work of volunteers, donors, and artisans who restore not only the building, but also its story.
Roof & Tile
Preserving the original Spanish clay roof tiles was a major priority. Damaged tiles were carefully replaced, matched in color and texture, and reinstalled by local artisans to maintain authenticity.
Exterior & Façade
From cracked stucco to sun-faded paint, the Mediterranean Revival façade has been fully restored — with repaired arches, period-accurate colors, and hand-finished architectural details that reflect Francis Abreu’s original design.
Apparatus Bay
The heart of the firehouse — where engines once roared to life — was rebuilt to showcase restored apparatus while preserving original concrete floors and steel framing.
The Fort Lauderdale Fire Station No. 3 restoration preserves this historic space as both a showcase for apparatus and a tribute to those who served.
Interiors
Inside, the original Cuban tile floors, wood-beam ceilings, and brass fire pole were cleaned, sealed, and preserved. Each room was restored for both historic accuracy and modern accessibility.
Details & Finishes
The beauty of Station 3 lies in its craftsmanship — from hand-carved woodwork to polished brass fittings. Volunteers refinished light fixtures, doors, and lettering with care, honoring the artistry of the 1920s.
All Restoration Photos
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Fort Lauderdale Fire Station No. 3 Restoration in Progress
Preservation is never finished. At the Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum, volunteers, retired firefighters, and local artisans continue to restore, maintain, and protect every detail of historic Fire Station No. 3 — ensuring this 1927 firehouse remains a living link between Fort Lauderdale’s past and future.
Restoration thrives through partnerships with Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, the Fire Department Payroll Deduction Program, and the dedicated hands that bring history back to life.
1922 American LaFrance Engine
Continuing mechanical preservation and cosmetic restoration to ensure this century-old apparatus remains a centerpiece of our collection.
Fire Station No. 3 Building
Ongoing care for the structure’s original 1927 craftsmanship, including tile restoration, paint conservation, and preservation of architectural details.
Photo & Document Archives
Digitizing materials for future online exhibits.
Every act of preservation — from refinishing woodwork to restoring an antique American LaFrance engine — keeps the city’s firefighting legacy alive. Your support ensures this landmark continues to inspire courage, craftsmanship, and community pride.