Clothing & Accessories

Work, play, fashion, economic class, religious faith, even politics—all these aspects of American life and more are woven into clothing. The Museum cares for one of the nation's foremost collections of men's, women's, and children's garments and accessories—from wedding gowns and military uniforms to Halloween costumes and bathing suits.

The collections include work uniforms, academic gowns, clothing of presidents and first ladies, T-shirts bearing protest slogans, and a clean-room "bunny suit" from a manufacturer of computer microchips. Beyond garments, the collections encompass jewelry, handbags, hair dryers, dress forms, hatboxes, suitcases, salesmen's samples, and thousands of fashion prints, photographs, and original illustrations. The more than 30,000 artifacts here represent the changing appearance of Americans from the 1700s to the present day.

The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet dates to the 19th century. The helmet has eight combs and an embossed foliage motif around the brim. The rear brim has “S.F.D. 4” painted in gold with a hook attached to the rear edge. There is a metal eagle frontpiece holder mounted to the crown of the helmet. The brown leather frontpiece has the number “1” in white in the center, with red banners at the top and bottom. The upper banner’s original text is unknown, but the lower banner reads “FD.”
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0233.0179
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0179
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather helmet was manufactured by Henry T. Gratacap of New York, New York in the mid 19th century. The helmet is painted red overall with its eight combs painted gold. A floral pattern is stamped into the brim of the hat, and the back brim has the date “1820” painted in black and gold. The back of the brim shows Gratacap’s maker’s stamp that reads “H.T. GRATACAP/143/Grand St. NY.” A metal eagle’s head serves as a frontpiece holder with a white leather frontpiece that reads “WASHINGTON/4/CPM.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1828
maker
Gratacap, Henry T.
ID Number
2005.0233.0198
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0198
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was made by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York during the late19th century. The helmet consists of 64 combs and is painted white. There is an ivy vine scroll pattern around the brim and a small metal frontpiece on the rear brim that is engraved. A metal eagle’s head frontpiece holder is mounted on the top of the helmet’s crown. The gold leather frontpiece has a central image of a steam powered fire engine, with the text “CHIEF/ENGINEER/P.F.D.” The helmet belonged to John Stagg of the Paterson, New Jersey fire department. Stagg served as Chief Engineer of the Volunteer Fire Department from 1887 until 1889, and was made chief of the paid Paterson Fire Department in 1891.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
late 19th century
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0207
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0207
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This black leather helmet dates to the 19th century. The hat has eight combs and is painted black overall. A metal eagle’s head mounted to the crown of the helmet serves as a frontpiece holder. The black leather frontpiece reads “CITIZEN/3”. An ivy-vine scroll pattern is stamped around the brim of the helmet, with the initials “U.F.I.” painted in gold with red shading on the rear brim. The United Firemen’s Insurance Company was organized by thirty-two fire and hose brigades in Philadelphia in 1860.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1836
maker
Julstone
ID Number
2005.0233.0222
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0222
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was made by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York in the early 19th century. The leather helmet is painted black with eight combs and ivy vine scroll work around the helmet’s brim. The back of the helmet has the initials “FA” flanking a fire hydrant painted in gold. This was the logo of the Fire Association of Philadelphia, an insurance company founded by a group of eleven volunteer engine companies and five volunteer hose companies in 1817. The metal frontpiece holder is in the shape of a fox, and holds a black and red frontpiece that reads “MITCHELL/IV/FIRE CO” in white text. Mitchell Fire Company No. 4 was founded in 1874 by shoemakers who were located on Federal Street in Burlington, New Jersey. The frontpiece is not original to the helmet.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1825
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0171
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0171
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This white leather helmet was made by Henry T. Gratacap of New York, New York around 1850. The helmet has eight combs and a metal frontpiece holder in the shape of a greyhound. A red felt sweatband with maker’s label is inside the crown. The helmet has an embossed floral design around the brim, and the date “1811” is painted in gold on the rear brim. The owner’s initials, “W.I.N.,” are painted in red on the rear brim’s underside.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1850
maker
Gratacap, Henry T.
ID Number
2005.0233.0174
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0174
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was made by John M. Migeod & Son of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the mid-19th century. The brown leather helmet has eight combs that are painted gold, and a metal fox frontpiece holder mounted on the crown. The leather around the rim has peeled away leaving the reinforced metal wire exposed. The white frontpiece has decorative stitching around the outer part of the frontpiece, the white number “3” in the center of a red background, a red banner at the top that reads “RESOLUTION” and a black banner at the bottom that reads “HOSE” in pale white leather. Founded in 1804 as the Resolution Hose Company No. 3, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, it operated as a hose company until 1855, when it refused to join the newly organized Philadelphia Fire Department, which, although volunteer, was under the administrative and financial control of the city. In 1865 it was admitted into the Philadelphia Fire Department and acquired a steam fire engine in 1869. It operated as the Resolution Hose and Steam Fire Engine Company No.3 until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
John M. Migoed & Son
ID Number
2005.0233.0186
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0186
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather helmet was manufactured around 1858. The black leather hat has 32 combs and stamped ivy-vine scrollwork around the rim. The back brim of the helmet has a metal frontpiece insert that bears the inscription “Presented to J.H. Bryant, Clerk of Washington Engine No. 5 Charleston by John Wildly Fireman of Oceanus No. 11 of New York, July 4 1858.” The helmet has a metal lion frontpiece-holder mounted on the crown, with a frontpiece of black and red painted leather. The frontpiece reads “Washington/1” with a crossed hook and ladder behind the “1” in the center of the frontpiece. Not much is known about Washington Engine No. 5, but Oceanus No. 11 consisted of mechanics and operated from Franklin Square in New York. Oceanus No. 11 was renowned for its friendly competitions with rival companies in bouts of engine racing and pumping exhibitions.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1858
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0196
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0196
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet dates to the 19th century. The helmet is painted white overall, with gold-painted combs and black triangle designs in the segments. It is similar in style to a pith helmet with a golden frontpiece affixed to the front of the helmet that originally read “SOUTHWARK / HOSE / 9 / FD,” but many of the letters are missing. The Southwark Hose Company No. 9 was founded in 1806, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Even though it acquired a steam fire engine in 1860 and received appropriations from the city as a steam fire company, it kept its name and operated until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1827
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0191
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0191
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This black leather fire helmet dates to the mid-19th century. The helmet has eight combs, an embossed ivy-vine design around the brim, and a metal eagle frontpiece holder mounted to the crown of the helmet. The grey frontpiece reads “STOCKTON/2/WMH.’
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1855
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0192
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0192
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was manufactured by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York. The helmet has eight combs and is painted white overall, with a leaping metal lion frontpiece holder. The leather frontpiece is painted white with a painted gold rim, with the word “CHIEF” in large gold letters in the center of the frontpiece. Two red ribbons are attached to the back of the helmet’s brim for decorative effect.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
20th century
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0214
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0214
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was manufactured by Anderson & Jones of New York, New York during the 19th century. The eight comb helmet is painted black overall, with a metal eagle’s head frontpiece holder mounted onto the crown of the helmet. The helmet’s black leather frontpiece reads “1st /Assistant/Hancock/1/TRH.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
Anderson & Jones
ID Number
2005.0233.0213
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0213
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was dates to the early 20th century. The helmet was originally painted black, but paint has flaked off of the helmet. A scrolling pattern is stamped around the brim of the hat. A metal eagle’s head frontpiece holder is mounted on to the helmet’s crown, which holds a black stippled leather frontpiece. The frontpiece has a white “1” and hook and ladder in the center, with red banners above and below with white lettering that reads “ROBERT W CHANLER/RED HOOK”. The Robert W. Chanler Ladder Company was located in Red Hook, New York. The Chanler Family was very influential in the Red Hook area, owning the Rokeby estate in the hamlet of Barrytown. Robert Chanler served several years as a county sheriff and New York State Assemblyman in the early 20th century, while also making a name for himself as a painter.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
late 19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0206
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0206
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather helmet was manufactured by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York around the late 19th century. The helmet has eight combs with an ivy vine scrollwork pattern stamped into the brim of the helmet. The metal eagle’s head mounted on the crown of the helmet serves as a frontpiece holder for the gold leather frontpiece that reads “FRIENDSHIP / 15 / 1796.” The Friendship Fire Engine Company of Northern Liberties, Philadelphia was founded August 18, 1796 and operated as a hand engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0226
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0226
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet dates to the 1850’s. The helmet is painted black overall, with its four combs painted gold. The helmet’s brim is embossed with a floral scroll pattern and the rear brim has “PROVIDENCE” painted in gold circled in red. The metal eagle frontpiece holder originally had articulated leather wings, but one is missing. A white frontpiece is held in the beak of the eagle that reads “PIONEER/X/I1st ENGINEER” in gold with red shading. Pioneer Engine Company No. 11 was located on South Main Street in Providence, Rhode Island.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1851-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0183
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0183
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather helmet was made by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York in the late 19th century. The helmet is painted white overall, with 16 combs, the four main combs are painted gold. An ivy-vine scrollwork pattern is stamped around the brim of the helmet, and the edge of the helmet is painted gold. The rear brim has a design of crossed hooks and ladders surrounded by a hose and trumpets, with an inset metal frontpiece that bears the inscription “J. McNally by Senate H & L Co. 1, Sing Sing, July 1886.” A metal eagle’s head mounted to the crown of the helmet serves as a frontpiece holder. The crudely-rendered frontpiece reads “CHEIF (sic) ENGINEER/C.F.D.” with a painting of a goose neck, piano-style hand-pump engine in the center. The frontpiece may not be original to the helmet.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1886
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0228
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0228
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was made by E.A.G. Roulstone of Roxbury, Massachusetts around 1864. The leather helmet has four combs, the brim is embossed with an ivy-vine design and there is a leather frontpiece holder attached to the crown. The frontpiece has become detached from the helmet and has decayed a bit. The frontpiece reads “SOUTH PENN / 31 / HOSE.” The South Penn Hose Company No. 37 was founded in 1845, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It claimed number 31 in 1865 and operated as the South Penn Steam Forcing Hose Company No.31 until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
Roulstone, E. A. G.
ID Number
2005.0233.0190
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0190
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This metal fire helmet was made by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York around 1950. This 20th century metal fire helmet features the hallmarks of Gratacap’s early 19th century leather helmet design including the protective combs, elongated rear brim, eagle frontpiece holder and leather frontpiece. The frontpiece holder features a painted design of the fireman’s cross, with a picture of a hook and ladder on the left side of the cross and the helmet on the right side of the cross. The leather frontpiece reads “2355 / 59 / PFD.” This helmet and frontpiece was worn by a member of Engine 59 of the Philadelphia Fire Department.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
early 1950s
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0218
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0218
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was manufactured by H.T. Gratacap of New York, New York, in the early 19th century. The red helmet has eight combs that are painted gold. A scrolling pattern is stamped around the brim of the helmet, and Gratacap’s makers mark is stamped on the rear brim. The rear brim also has the date “1804” painted in gold with stylized sunbursts around it. A leather eagle’s head frontpiece holder is mounted on to the top of the helmet’s crown. The missing frontpiece makes attribution difficult, as there were several volunteer fire companies founded in 1804 in both Philadelphia and New York.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
Gratacap, Henry T.
ID Number
2005.0233.0212
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0212
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was made by an unknown manufacturer during the 19th century. The helmet has eight protective combs, with an ivy-vine scrollwork pattern stamped around the brim. A metal eagle’s head serves as a frontpiece holder. The leather frontpiece has lost some of its letters, but it originally read “JEFFERSON/6/PJ.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0227
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0227
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather helmet dates to the 19th century. The helmet has eight protective combs with an ivy-vine scrollwork pattern stamped into the brim. The helmet has a metal eagle’s head as a frontpiece holder, with a metal ring attached to the top of the helmet’s crown. The black leather frontpiece is missing a variety of letters, but originally read “ENGINEER/1/NEWTON.” The helmet originally belonged to Engine Co. 1 of Newton, Massachusetts, whose fire department organized in 1812.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0224
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0224
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet dates to the late 19th century. A metal eagle frontpiece holder is mounted to the crown of the helmet, holding a white frontpiece with a central painted image of a double-decker Philadelphia-style fire engine. The top of the frontpiece is missing, but comparison to similar objects reveal that the helmet originally had a black banner with white lettering that read “VETERAN.” The bottom of the frontpiece has a black banner with white lettering that reads “PHILADELPHIA.” The rear brim of the helmet has the golden letters “FA” flanking a gold image of a fire hydrant with attached hose. This was the logo of the Fire Association of Philadelphia, an insurance company founded by a group of eleven volunteer engine companies and five volunteer hose companies in 1817 that would have included the company of this helmet’s owner. The gold ”V” on the back of the helmet’s crown signifies the veteran status of the wearer, and the helmet is painted white to signify that it was worn by a former officer.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0195
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0195
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, front shield, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, front shield, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and front shield were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
Though most work hats from 1836 on were shaped in the familiar Gratacap style with a prominent rear brim, some companies like Trenton wore hats that deviated from this standard. This leather fire helmet was made by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York around 1840. Reminiscent of British “bobby” or pith helmets this helmet has a rounded “bowl” shape. The helmet is painted white overall, with eight combs painted gold and a black diamond pattern painted in between the combs. It has a metal eagle shield holder, and a leather shield that reads "Trenton 1 Hose Co./THC/EW.” The interlocking “THC” initials in the center of the shield stand for the “Trenton Hose Company.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1840
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0193
catalog number
2005.0233.0193
accession number
2005.0233
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was manufactured by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York in the 19th century. The helmet has four large combs, with ribbed segments in between the main combs. An ivy-vine scrollwork pattern is stamped around the brim of the helmet. A metal eagle’s head is mounted on the crown of the helmet to serve as a frontpiece holder. The red leather frontpiece reads “EAGLE/2/HANOVER/PA.” The Eagle Company No. 2 of Hanover, Pennsylvania was founded in 1845.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
20th century
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0229
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0229

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