West End Hose Company Number 3, Fire station and museum in Somerville, United States
The West End Hose Company Number 3 is a two-story brick structure featuring a large arched window on its second level located on North Doughty Avenue. The building originally served as a firehouse and now functions as a museum showcasing firefighting history and equipment from different periods.
The building was designed in 1888 by architect Jacques Vanderbeck and served as an active fire station for many decades. In 1970 the company moved to a new location, after which the building was eventually converted into a museum.
The building displays distinctive Romanesque Revival details with textured glass panels and a granite keystone bearing the inscription 'WEST-END HOSE, 1888'. These features and the architecture reflect its past importance as a gathering place for the neighborhood.
The museum is located on North Doughty Avenue and features interactive exhibits about firefighting history and equipment. Visitors can explore the restored building and learn about the role of local firefighters in the community.
The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002, recognizing its architectural merit and significance to local history. This official designation honors both the craftsmanship of its original construction and its contribution to the neighborhood's character.
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