Rolf Schamberger: A legacy of fire brigade history in Fulda

Rolf Schamberger: A legacy of fire brigade history in Fulda
A thank you to Rolf Schamberger: Legacy of a passionate museum director
The German Fire Brigade Museum (DFM) in Fulda has experienced a significant farewell. After almost three decades as head of the museum, Rolf Schamberger M.A. retired in a warm ceremony. His work has not only gained the trust and recognition of his colleagues, but also strengthened the relationship between the community of fire brigade history.
The occasion found on 1. July 1995 when Schamberger took up his work in the DFM. In the period until his farewell, he has made significant progress in museum work. His projects for dealing with the fire brigade history during National Socialism, which he successfully integrated into the permanent exhibition, should be particularly noted. These projects are of great importance because they have raised awareness of the complex historical relationships in fire fighting.
The solemn farewell took place in the presence of around 130 guests from different countries, including colleagues, fire brigade representatives and urban dignitaries. Among the speakers was Karl-Heinz Banse, President of the German Fire Brigade Association (DFV), who praised Schamberger's passion and dedication with moving words. He emphasized the role of the DFM as a leitmuseum among the 60 fire museums in Germany, which underlines the importance of Schamberger's effect.
The event made it clear how very Schamberger has promoted the interest of the public in the fire brigade history. His commitment to international networks, especially with the World Fire Brigade Association CTIF, shows the worldwide echo of his work. The awarding of the Golden Badge of Honor of the DFV is just one of many awards he received for his merits.
The Mayor of Fulda, Dr. Heiko Wingenfeld, in his thanks, emphasized that Schamberger can be seen as a "living fire brigade history book". This metaphor illustrates how much his work has brought the history of history to life. As a sign of recognition, he presented him with tickets for the Fulda Musical Summer 2025.
Another highlight of the celebration was the award with the golden fire protection earnings in the state of Hesse. These honorary signs show how important Schamberger's commitment to fire protection and the fire brigade history was not only locally, but also at the state level.
But the celebrations were not only limited to Schamberger. Also Dr. Klaus Zehner, a former board member of SV Sparkassenversicherung, was adopted. His services to the connection of the museum to Sparkassenversicherung were also recognized, which illustrates the important role of cooperations between museums and other institutions.
With his farewell, Schamberger hands over the inheritance to the new management, which has since the 1. September 2024 from Dr. Michael Rüffer and Bernd Müller-Strauß M.A. consists. Schamberger will provide advice until the end of the month to accompany the transition. His farewell marks the end of an era in which he inspired countless people with his stories and expertise.
The legacy of Rolf Schamberger will continue to remain alive in the walls of the German Fire Brigade Museum and inspire the coming generations. Interested parties can find more information about the museum among the contact options provided.