Until a few years ago, in accordance with the idea about the definition of historical and cultural assets, real historical significance could be given only to religious buildings, to artistical works, to a castle, or to a monument. Consequently it was impossible to give the right importance to all other buildings and to their restoration works. Unfortunately many things were lost.
The same fate happened to all the machinery, and the equipment concerning the Firemen's long tradition.
We wanted to challenge the past and the oblivion through the idea of a museum able to give evidence of the Firemen history of the Italian. This challenge was the result of the determination and the work of the Firemen's Historical Association, of the public authorities, and of public citizens who made possible to collect, to restore and to treasure a property of such great importance.
Who can forget the Roman Forces, the first example of civil defence against fires in the ancient world? Or the glorious history of the "Guardie a Fuoco" already active in the XIV century in Florence? Or the history of the artisans that had to defend their city, Turin, beginning from 1442? These are only a few examples that have contributed to the consolidation of the relationship with the population of every single city.

IT IS NECESSARY TO DO SOMETHING ENERGICALLY
We notice also in Italy a rare interest for what concerns the tradition of Firemen, even if it came later compared with France and the Anglosaxon countries. Many people have understood the importance of such historical Corps.

A DECISIVE HELP
The Firemen's Historical Association (APSVVF), starting from 1992, has been really active in order to rescue and to recover instruments concerning Firemen's long tradition. The Association has also promoted conferences and debates, and it has furthermore supported the publication of many books.

THE AIMS
The APSVVF has 2 principle aims:
· to save our historical memory in order to remember that our country has a long tradition
· to create the Historical Museum. This is the real challenge against the past, and it needs the help of everyone interested in it.

TO ENCREASE THIS PATRIMONY
The task of the Association is really big, but it is not impossible. It needs, anyway, the help of everyone. That is why we launch an appeal so that we are no longer the cause of the losing of that patrimony.

If you are interested in, write at:

ASSOCIAZIONE PER LA STORIA DEI VIGILI DEL FUOCO
Corso Regina Margherita 330, 10143 TORINO

Or Phone us:
0039-11-7422353
Fax 0039-11-7422353
e-mail: stvf@arpnet.it

Annual Membership fees:
Supporter membership: £135000
Ordinary membership: £50000