Topeka, Kansas: Fire Hydrant House

Claude Belshe's collection of over 150 old fire hydrants line his fence and fill his yard.

Address:: 720 SW 5th St., Topeka, KS
Directions:: Near the center of Topeka on SW 5th St. between SW Taylor St. and SW Polk St. Private property; visible from the street.

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The Fire Hydrant House

A display of over 150 fire hydrants -- plus a few other things in the yard -- in downtown Topeka. All can be seen from the road. Open 24/7.

[Claude Belshe, 08/15/2023]

We were told that Claude Belshe began filling his yard with old fire hydrants as a way to entertain his two dogs.

Fire hydrant garden.

Fire Hydrant Garden

Claude Belshe's fire hydrant collection is now closing in on one hundred specimens. The consummate collector has added many more hydrants since my last visit in 2007. As Claude readily confesses, nobody is considered a serious collector until they have at least a hundred hydrants. Belshe, who is a most gracious host, is happy to show visitors around the yard and is an encyclopedia of fire hydrant information.

[Phil Pasquini, 05/15/2013]

Hydrant Garden.

Fire Hydrant Garden

Claude Belshe started to collect and install old fire hydrants when the garden he and his wife planted was trampled by their two dogs. The hydrants have become heaven for the dogs! They have all been lovingly repainted by his stepson Jeffery. Claude plans for the garden to continue to grow and is always on the lookout for more hydrants. The entire garden can be seen from the street as his dogs are very aggressive to protect their paradise!

[Phil Pasquini, 03/15/2007]