ASTORIA, OREGON — The historic david campbell fireboat has been permanently installed at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, cementing a new chapter in Oregon’s storied maritime tradition. The much-anticipated arrival marks a milestone for the museum and stands as a tribute to both local maritime service and Oregon coast history.

Complex Relocation from Portland to Astoria

The journey of the David Campbell fireboat from its longtime home in Portland to astoria oregon was no small feat. The operation relied on a 660-ton crawler crane to delicately maneuver the 1927 fireboat from barge to a purpose-built exhibit pit at the museum’s east entrance. The vessel’s move was made possible by the coordinated effort of expert contractors, museum staff, volunteers, and financial contributions from donors.

A Rare Maritime Artifact on the Oregon Coast

Launched in 1927 and named for the revered Portland Fire Chief David Campbell, this fireboat played an active and critical role in portland fire rescue service for 85 years. Capable of pumping up to 12,000 gallons of water per minute, the vessel responded to numerous emergencies along the Portland waterfront, serving as a powerful symbol of local innovation in marine firefighting and historic vessels preservation.

Fireboat Restoration and Exhibit Details

The fireboat restoration process has involved painstaking attention to the David Campbell’s structure, with teams working to revive sections of the main deck and engine room. Restoration efforts are ongoing, ensuring visitors will gain authentic insight into the vessel’s operations and legacy as part of the museum’s mariners hall exhibit project. Once this adjacent hall is complete, guests will be invited to embark on self-guided public maritime tours within the boat’s cabins and machinery spaces.

Growing the Columbia River Maritime Museum Experience

The installation of the David Campbell aligns with the museum’s broader marine museum expansion plan. The fireboat joins other noted artifacts, including the historic Pilot Boat Peacock, offering a compelling lens into pacific northwest maritime traditions. This expansion not only adds to the museum’s substantial collection but also solidifies its regional role in protecting and interpreting Oregon coast history for future generations.

Access and Community Engagement

Admission to the fireboat—either through regular museum tickets or a specialized vessels-only pass—encourages diverse audiences to engage with the full spectrum of maritime history on display. The museum has emphasized its gratitude for the public and private support that brought this ambitious project to fruition, underscoring the collaborative spirit that continues to drive preservation of important historical assets.

Looking Forward

With the fireboat now settled alongside the museum’s other iconic displays, the Columbia River Maritime Museum confirms its standing as a center for maritime heritage on the Oregon coast. As the mariners hall exhibit takes shape and the restoration of the David Campbell nears completion, Oregon’s coastal communities and visitors alike can look forward to an even richer experience exploring the history that shaped the region’s relationship with its rivers and ports. This latest achievement ensures that the story of the david campbell fireboat and its vital role in Pacific Northwest history will continue to inspire for years to come.