Clothing & Accessories

Women's Gown (cheong sam) ca. 1930

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.

Topic: Fire Helmets

Firefighter's Helmet

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 (Brief)
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 around 1883 until 1885. The helmet is composed of 16 combs, painted yellow, with an eagle frontpiece holder on the crown and a rear brim embossed with hose and hydrants. The leather frontpiece is painted gold with the text “ASSISTANT/ENGINEER” above an image of a spider-type hose carriage, with the initials “P.Z.” underneath. The initials stand for Peter Zeluff, an assistant engineer in Paterson, New Jersey during the late 19th century who owned the hat.
Description
Worn by Peter Zeluff, assistant chief engineer
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1883-1885
user
Zeluff, Peter
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0015
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0015

Fire Helmet, "Assistant Chief"

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 William H. Wilson of New York, New York during the mid-to-late 19th century. The white helmet has four main combs painted red, with painted gold triangles in each segment. The rear brim has the date “1772”, and the underside of the brim is painted red. A leather eagle-shaped frontpiece holder is attached to the crown of the helmet. The frontpiece has a central image of three crossed speaking trumpets, with the text “Asst./CHIEF” above the trumpets. The painted frontpiece is in poor condition.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
manufacturer
Wilson, William H.
ID Number
2005.0233.0231
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0231

Fire Helmet, "Harmony 6 Fire Co."

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 and Son of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the 19th century. The black helmet has eight combs with a stamped ivy-vine design around the helmet’s brim. The rear brim of the helmet has the initials “FA” painted in gold flanking an image of a fire hydrant with protruding 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. A metal frontpiece holder in the shape of a fox is mounted onto the crown of the helmet. The frontpiece is painted white, with a large black “6” in the center and the words “HARMONY / FIRE Co” on red banners arching around the top and bottom of the frontpiece. The Harmony Fire Company No.6 was founded in Philadelphia in 1784 by a group of Quakers. It operated as a hand engine 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 1867, the Franklin Hose Company No. 28 purchased its charter and operated as the Harmony Steam Fire Engine Company No. 6 until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
around 1850
maker
Migeod Company
John M. Migoed & Son
Migeod Company
ID Number
2005.0233.0161
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0161

Fire Helmet, "Mitchell IV Fire Co."

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

Fire Helmet, "Eagle Lynn V.F.A."

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 has sixty four combs, and is painted white with a metal eagle frontpiece holder mounted on the crown of the hat. The white leather frontpiece has a black monogram of “VFA” in the center of the frontpiece which stands for the Veteran Fire Association. A red banner above the monogram reads “EAGLE” and a red banner below reads “Lynn.” There was an Eagle Veteran Fire Association in Lynn, Massachusetts that operated during the late 19th century.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1840
referenced
Veteran Firemen's Association
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0151
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0151

Fire Helmet, "Moyamensing H & L Co. 1"

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. The eight comb helmet has been painted black and a metal eagle frontpiece holder is mounted onto the helmet’s crown. The black leather frontpiece has a gold number “1” with a crossed hook and ladder behind it on a red background. The top of the frontpiece reads “Moyamensing” and the bottom reads “H&L Co.” both in red. This helmet likely belonged to Chester, Pennsylvania’s Moyamensing Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, instituted in April of 1868 and incorporated in February of 1870.
Location
Currently not on view
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0172
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0172

Fire Helmet, "Globe Fire Company"

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 second half of the 19th century. The helmet is painted black overall, its eight combs are painted gold, and a metal eagle frontpiece holder is mounted on the crown. There is a pressed ivy-vine design around the rim, and the date “1812” is painted in gold on the rear brim. The gold frontpiece reads “GLOBE / FIRE / 30 / COMPANY / RFR” in raised letters. “Presented to Wm. M. Kidd” is written on the hat’s inner band. It is likely that the helmet and frontpiece were not originally produced together. The Globe Fire Engine Company No. 30 of the Kensington District of Philadelphia was founded in 1820 as a hand engine company. It acquired a steam fire engine in 1863 and operated as steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0144
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0144

Fire Helmet, "Hampton 6"

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 (Brief)
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 mid-19th century. The helmet is painted black overall, with eight combs painted gold, and a red underbrim. The rear brim has the date “1867” painted in gold with red shadowing, and a scroll pattern is stamped around the hat’s rim. A metal fox is mounted onto the top of the crown as a frontpiece holder. The leather frontpiece is white overall, with gold letters on a red background that reads “HAMPTON/6/FIRE Co”.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0233.0204
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0204

Fire Helmet, "Washington Hose Company No. 1"

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 dates to the late 19th century. The helmet has eight combs, with decorative triangles in between the segments and ivy-vine scrollwork around the hat’s brim. The metal eagle’s head frontpiece holder is mounted onto the crown of the helmet, with a thin metal frontpiece that reads “WASHINGTON/1/HOSE.” The frontpiece has a stamped rope border, and the center number “1” is surrounded by a hose.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
20th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0197
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0197

Fire Helmet, "William Penn / 3 / Hose"

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 hat was manufactured by Philip & Company during the 19th century. The helmet has eight combs, with a gilt metal eagle/phoenix frontpiece holder. The frontpiece reads “WILLIAM PENN/3/HOSE”.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
Philip & Company
ID Number
2005.0233.0200
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0200

Fire Helmet, "Cheif Engineer C.F.D."

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

Fire Helmet, "Trenton Hose Co. 1 EW"

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

Fire Helmet, "Foreman No. 3, H K W"

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 William H. Wilson of New York, New York in the mid-to-late 19th century. The helmet is painted black overall and its combs are painted gold, with a gold arrow design painted between the combs. The helmet has a floral design in gold embossed around the brim, and a metal lion frontpiece holder. The frontpiece is painted white, and reads “FOREMAN/H 3 C/H.K.W” in black. This helmet likely belonged to H.K. Woodruff of the Independent Hose Company No. 3, who served as foreman of the company from about 1863-1865.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1846-1894
maker
Wilson, John
Wilson, William H.
ID Number
2005.0233.0157
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0157

Fire Helmet, "America Hose”

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 (Brief)
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 in the 19th century for the American Hose Company Number 2. The black helmet is comprised of eight combs with a metal eagle frontpiece holder on the crown and an embossed rosette decoration around the brim. The leather frontpiece is wired to the hat, and reads “AMERICA/HOSE/2/ECK.” The initials “ECK” likely identified the owner of the helmet.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0133
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0133

Fire Helmet, "1"

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 (Brief)
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 combs and is painted brown overall. An ivy-vine scrollwork pattern is stamped around the brim of the hat. A metal eagle’s head is attached to the crown of the helmet that serves as a frontpiece holder. The brown leather frontpiece has a large white number “1” in the center. A white banner above the number “1” is blank, but faded spots indicate it once read “WH Co”.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0230
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0230

Fire Helmet, "Hope Fire 1 EAH"

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 William H. Wilson of New York, New York in the mid-to-late 19th century. The helmet is painted black and its eight combs are painted gold. The date “1850” is painted in gold on the rear brim, and a metal eagle frontpiece holder is mounted on the crown. The frontpiece is gold overall with a large gold number “1” in the center of a red background. An upper red banner reads “HOPE FIRE Co.” with a lower black banner bearing the initials “EAH” in gold. Hope was a common name among 19th century fire companies, so the exact company that used this hat is unknown, but the date of 1850 is the founding date of the Hope Hose Company of Burlington, New Jersey.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1850
manufacturer
Wilson, William H.
ID Number
2005.0233.0164
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0164

Fire Helmet, "Friendship / 15 / 1796"

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

Fire Helmet, "Continental V.V.B. 1"

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 in New York, New York around 1845. The helmet has eight combs and is painted black with a pressed ivy-vine design around the rim. The frontpiece is painted black, with the white number “1” with a hook and ladder crossed behind it in the center. On red banners above and below the center is the text “CONTINENTAL/VVB” in raised white letters. The name Baufuskirk appears on a piece of paper inside the hat, possibly the owner’s last name.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1845
producer
Cairns & Brother
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0148
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0148

Fire Helmet, "N.Y. Volunteer Association"

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 Anderson & Jones of New York, New York around 1845. The black helmet has an embossed ivy-vine design around the helmet’s brim. The helmet has 32 combs and a metal eagle frontpiece holder attached to its crown. The black leather frontpiece has a central image of a speaking trumpet topped by a fire helmet, with a variety of firefighting paraphernalia including hoses, hooks, and axes behind it. The frontpiece reads “N.Y./VOLUNTEER/ASSOCIATION/HKW” around the central image. On the rear underbrim is an inset that bears the text “Presented to/H.K. Woodruff by/ G.J.D. M.S.D.V./M.L. J.E.M./P.S.D.V.” This hat was presented to H.K. Woodruff, a volunteer firefight formerly of the Independent Hose Company No. 3, upon the organization of the New York Volunteer Firemen’s Association. The Firemen’s Association was organized in February of 1884 and was filled with ex-volunteer firemen who wished to keep the memory of volunteer firefighting alive after the creation of the paid fire department in New York.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1845
maker
Anderson & Jones
Anderson & Jones
ID Number
2005.0233.0160
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0160

Fire Helmet, "Asst. Chief D.S.F."

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 (Brief)
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 in the 19th century. The black helmet is comprised of eight combs with a floral design stamped into the brim. There is a metal lion frontpiece holder mounted on the crown. The leather frontpiece originally read “ASST/CHIEF/DFS,” but several of the letters are missing. The text surrounds a painted image of three crossed fire trumpets inside an orange circle.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0134
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0134

Fire Helmet, "Southwark Hose 9"

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

Fire Helmet, "Franklin 1"

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 likely dates to the middle of the 19th century. The helmet has eight combs and is painted brown with a shiny lacquer-like finish. An ivy-vine pattern is embossed around the brim of the helmet, and a metal eagle frontpiece holder is mounted onto the crown of the helmet. A ring is attached to the crown of the hat where the combs intersect. The helmet has a detached brown frontpiece with a large gold number “1” in the center with a crossed hook and ladder behind it. The banner above reads “FRANKLIN.” The exact company that this helmet belonged to is hard to identify since many volunteer companies adopted Benjamin Franklin as their namesake.
Location
Currently not on view
referenced
Franklin, Benjamin
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0158
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0158

Fire Helmet, "Hibernia"

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 William H. Wilson of New York, New York in the mid-19th century. The helmet’s crown is painted green and its eight combs are painted gold. The underside of the helmet’s brim is painted red. A metal eagle’s head frontpiece holder is mounted onto the top of the crown, which holds a leather frontpiece that reads “HIBERNIA / 1.” The Hibernia Fire Engine Company was one of the oldest fire companies in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1752 by Protestant Irish colonists. The green and gold colors on the helmet reflect this heritage. The Hibernia Fire Engine Company No. 1 operated as a hand engine company until it acquired a steam fire engine in 1858. It operated as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
manufacturer
Wilson, William H.
ID Number
2005.0233.0203
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0203

Fire Helmet, "Western Hose SFE Co. 26"

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 around 1860. The helmet has eight combs and is painted black overall. An ivy-vine scrollwork pattern is stamped around the brim of the hat. A metal eagle’s head is attached to the crown of the helmet to serve as a frontpiece holder. The leather frontpiece reads “WESTERN / HOSE / 26 / SFE Co.” Founded in 1836 as the Western Hose Company No. 26 of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, it acquired a steam fire engine in 1863 and operated as the Western Hose and Steam Fire Engine Company No.26 until their services were dispensed with by Common Council in September 14, 1867.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1860
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0223
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0223

Our collection database is a work in progress. We may update this record based on further research and review. Learn more about our approach to sharing our collection online.

If you would like to know how you can use content on this page, see the Smithsonian's Terms of Use. If you need to request an image for publication or other use, please visit Rights and Reproductions.