The African American Firefighter Museum had an unveiling on June 14, 2011. Renowned sculptor Artis Lane created a large bust of Arnett L. Hartsfield, Jr.

In 1940 Hartsfield was the 80th African American to join the Los Angeles Fire Department. Although he is 92 years old he is still affectionately referred to as the “Rookie” a name given to him because he was not allowed to go through the Drill Tower due to segregation. Arnett later became a practicing attorney, professor and a Civil Service Commissioner.

You can visit this historic presentation at your African American Firefighter Museum located at 1401 S. Central Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90021.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department