Wisconsin State Firefighters Memorial Park

Every year approximately 100 firefighters die in the line of duty in the United States.  On April 16, 1996, then Governor Tommy G. Thompson signed into law legislation designating Wisconsin Rapids as the site of the Wisconsin State Firefighters Memorial.  The Wisconsin State Firefighters Memorial (WSFM) is a tribute to firefighters from the State of Wisconsin who made this ultimate sacrifice while in service to their communities. The WSFM is a Memorial Park dedicated to preserving their memory. 

The vision of the WSFM was to create a park with a natural and scenic setting to house a memorial to our firefighting heroes from across this great State of Wisconsin. The serenity of the setting allows park visitors to be alone with their thoughts and emotions and at the same time realize that their loves one will never be forgotten.

The park covers 7.5 acres located along the west side of the Wisconsin River, providing the peaceful and somber atmosphere the memorial requires.  The park’s existing tall trees and rolling terrain add greatly to the tranquility and serenity of the location, making it the perfect place for the memorial.

The Memorial Wall of Honor and the Memorial Bell Tower serve to remind visitors of the sacrifices made by firefighters. The WSFM wall is made up of six black marble plates containing the names of those firefighters from Wisconsin who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Bell Tower houses an authentic fire bell originally hung at the headquarters of the Superior Fire Department in 1892. The bell was donated to the WSFM by the Old Fire House from Superior. The bell tower metal truss system was constructed and donated to the WSFM by the North Lake Volunteer Fire Department. The bronze plaque located beneath the bell explains the significance of the Final Alarm Ceremony. Also included is a dedication plaque in memory of Assistant Chief Michael Kilpatrick of the North Lake Volunteer Fire Department and all firefighters who have died in the line-of-duty.

The Legacy Stones also provide a reminder of these sacrifices as visitors walk through the Park; lining the walkways at various areas throughout the Park. They provide a way of honoring loved ones or showing support for the Park. Stones are available for purchase and come in two sizes with custom engraving available.