Old Fire Station — National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago

Old Fire Station

Strategically located for Port of Spain at the time, the Station was better equipped and manned than previous facilities. The building itself is the first reinforced concrete structure in Port of Spain and is a fine combination of old and new construction technology, blending well with the Red House and Trinity Cathedral with well-articulated quoins and traditional stone markings. The building is well proportioned and functional in design, a central tower providing a lookout over Port of Spain. There is a beautiful rhythm to the fenestration and fire engine doors. The design is tropical allowing good cross ventilation. Internally there is a magnificent cast-iron staircase. Massive trusses with decorative detailing support a slate roof.

The design can perhaps be described as being a transition from traditional to modern Trinidad and Tobago architecture.

Property of interest occupying 5,224 square feet and located in the City of Port of Spain in the north-eastern portion of the complex occupied at present by the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS), bounded on the north by Hart Street, on the south by Queen Street (now known as Queen Janelle Commissiong Street), on the east by Abercromby Street and on the west by St. Vincent Street.

Other Known Name: Old Fire Brigade Building

Address: Corner Hart and Abercromby Streets

Town/City: Port of Spain

Region: Port of Spain

Site Type: Cultural Heritage

Ownership: Public

Public Accessibility: Limited Access

Grade: Grade 3 – Property in which there may be allowed (a) Alterations to international non-structural components and roof cladding material; or (b) specified alterations to internal structure;

Cultural Community: British

Site Features: Public Buildings