Cultures & Communities

Cleveland Many Peoples One Language Poster

Furniture, cooking wares, clothing, works of art, and many other kinds of artifacts are part of what knit people into communities and cultures. The Museum’s collections feature artifacts from European Americans, Latinos, Arab Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, African Americans, Gypsies, Jews, and Christians, both Catholics and Protestants. The objects range from ceramic face jugs made by enslaved African Americans in South Carolina to graduation robes and wedding gowns. The holdings also include artifacts associated with education, such as teaching equipment, textbooks, and two complete schoolrooms. Uniforms, insignia, and other objects represent a wide variety of civic and voluntary organizations, including youth and fraternal groups, scouting, police forces, and firefighters.

Topic: Fire Fighting

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

United States Insurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The United States Insurance Company of Baltimore, Maryland issued this cast iron fire mark in 1834.The mark is embossed with the simple text: “INSURED/U.S.I.Co.” The United States Insurance Company operated from 1833 until 1845.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1834
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0474
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0474

Mobile Fire Department Insurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Mobile Fire Department Insurance Company of Mobile, Alabama issued this fire mark around 1866-1879. This oval cast iron fire mark features a profile view of a typical firefighter’s helmet, with a front shield and rear brim. Below the helmet features the text “MFD/ICo.” The Mobile Fire Department Insurance Company operated from 1866 until 1879.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1866-1879
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0478
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0478

Baltimore Equitable Society Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Baltimore Equitable Society of Baltimore, Maryland issued this fire mark between 1794 and 1820. The mark consists of a rectangular wooden board with two clasped iron hands painted red at the top. The board has a wooden border around the frame. The Baltimore Equitable Society was founded in 1794 and is still in operation today. The “Sign of the Clasped Hands” fire mark is still available from the Baltimore Equitable Society, and comes in cast aluminum that is painted black overall, with hands and numbering in gold.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1794–1820
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0481
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0481

Charleston Mutual Insurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Charleston Mutual Insurance Company of Charleston, South Carolina issued this fire mark around 1798. The mark features a raised image of an angel bringing rain and pouring water over a burning city, with an overhead text that reads “MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY.” The Charleston Mutual Insurance Company operated from 1797 until 1806.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1798
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0468
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0468

Penn Insurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Penn Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania issued this fire mark in 1841. The mark consists of a two dimensional bust of William Penn cast in relief, who is depicted wearing a tricorne hat, cravat, and jacket. Underneath the bust is a crescent-shaped banner that reads “INSURED” in raised block text. The bust is painted gold, and the text is painted brown. The Penn Insurance Company operated from 1841 until 1845, closing after the great fire in Pittsburgh in April of 1845.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1841
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0504
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0504

Independence Fire Company Fire Hat

Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes.
Description
Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes. During the 19th century, these fire hats became more ornate, as portraits of historical figures, patriotic scenes, allegorical images, or company icons were painted alongside the company’s name, motto, or founding date. Made of pressed felt, these “stove-pipe” hats were primarily used in Philadelphia, but other nearby cities such as Baltimore and Washington adopted them as well. Fire hats were personal items with the owner’s initials often painted on the top of the hat. While these hats were worn at fires, they are more colloquially known as “parade hats.” Fire companies commonly marched in the many parades of the period and these ornate hats contributed to the visual culture of their day. These distinguishing features in a company’s regalia often proclaimed the members’ cultural and political identity as well as their position on contested topics such as work, religion and immigration.
This hat is painted orange/red overall, with a central portrait of Thomas Jefferson set inside a golden circular frame. The portrait is flanked by two dark blue banners that read “INDEPENDENCE/FIRE COMPANY” in gold paint. The date “1847” is painted in gold on the back of the hat between two gold lines. The owner’s initials “W.A.Mc.A.” are painted in gold on the crown of the hat. This hat was likely used by a member of the Independence Fire Engine Company, located in the Callowhill area of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Independence Fire Engine Company No. 39 was founded in 1847 as a hand engine company. It acquired a steam fire engine in 1863 and operated as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
associated
Independence Fire Company
depicted
Jefferson, Thomas
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0110
catalog number
2005.0233.0110
accession number
2005.0233

Fire Engine Plate, "Northern Liberty Fire Company"

At the core of any fire company is the apparatus used to fight fires and protect lives. This was particularly true of for the volunteer fire fighters in 19th century America.
Description (Brief)
At the core of any fire company is the apparatus used to fight fires and protect lives. This was particularly true of for the volunteer fire fighters in 19th century America. Often purchased with their own funds, their fire engines were the focus of their pride and affection, as well as their identities as fire fighters. Engine plates, often made of brass, would be prominently affixed to engines and inscribed with the company name, number, and founding date. Engine plates could pass from old engine to new, or be kept in the firehouse as a memorial to a departed apparatus.
This metal plate was used by the Northern Liberty Fire Company No. 1 of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The company was instituted on May 1st, 1756 and operated on the corner of Cable Lane and Callowhill Road. The number “1” refers to the fact that it was the first engine company organized in the incorporated district of Northern Liberties, which was consolidated into Philadelphia in 1854. The scalloped rectangular plate features the number “1” engraved in the center with a trumpet in the middle. Engraved calligraphic script at the top and bottom reads “NORTHERN LIBERTY FIRE CO. / Instituted May 1.1756 / Incorporated Mar.18.1833.”
Location
Currently not on view
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0938
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0938

Allegheny Parade Hat

Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes.
Description
Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes. During the 19th century, these fire hats became more ornate, as portraits of historical figures, patriotic scenes, allegorical images, or company icons were painted alongside the company’s name, motto, or founding date. Made of pressed felt, these “stove-pipe” hats were primarily used in Philadelphia, but other nearby cities such as Baltimore and Washington adopted them as well. Fire hats were personal items with the owner’s initials often painted on the top of the hat. While these hats were worn at fires, they are more colloquially known as “parade hats.” Fire companies commonly marched in the many parades of the period and these ornate hats contributed to the visual culture of their day. These distinguishing features in a company’s regalia often proclaimed the members’ cultural and political identity as well as their position on contested topics such as work, religion and immigration.
This hat dates to the first half of the 19th century from Allegheny, Pennsylvania. The hat has been painted red, and bears the text “ALLEGHENY” in gold above a United States shield. The date “1802” is painted in gold on the back of the hat, and the crown of the hat has a star shaped designed with the letter “A” in the center. The Allegheny Fire Company of Allegheny, Pennsylvania was founded in 1802 and operated until 1870, when it was absorbed by the municipal fire department.
Location
Currently not on view
in use
1802-1870
company which the hat's owner belonged to
Allegheny Engine Co.
owner
Neel, Harry
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0026
catalog number
2005.0233.0026
accession number
2005.0233

Mutual Assurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Mutual Assurance Company for Insuring Houses from Loss by Fire of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania issued this squatty cast iron flat back fire mark around 1829. This Mutual fire mark is made of cast iron, featuring a raised image of a tree with painted green leaves in the center of an oblong oval. The Mutual was founded in 1784 by former policyholders of the Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss by Fire. The Philadelphia Contributionship decided that buildings with trees in front of them posed a fire hazard and would no longer be insured. Since trees were abundant in early Philadelphia, this decision created a rift in the Contributionship. The Mutual was founded to provide insurance to those members whose buildings had trees. The adoption of the “Green Tree” as the company’s fire mark was a nod to the dispute that led to the Mutual’s founding.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1829
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0434
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0434

Fire Engine Plate, "Newton"

At the core of any fire company is the apparatus used to fight fires and protect lives. This was particularly true of for the volunteer fire fighters in 19th century America.
Description (Brief)
At the core of any fire company is the apparatus used to fight fires and protect lives. This was particularly true of for the volunteer fire fighters in 19th century America. Often purchased with their own funds, their fire engines were the focus of their pride and affection, as well as their identities as fire fighters. Engine plates, often made of brass, would be prominently affixed to engines and inscribed with the company name, number, and founding date. Engine plates could pass from old engine to new, or be kept in the firehouse as a memorial to a departed apparatus.
This white metal engine plate belonged to the Newton Fire Company Number 3 of Newton, Massachusetts. The Newton Fire Department was founded in 1835, and the Newton Fire Company Number 3 was founded in 1857. The shield-shaped plate bears the central engraving “NEWTON/3” with black enamel filling. There are decorative incisions around the text, and holes at the top and sides for mounting.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1850
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0940
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0940

United Firemen's Insurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The United Firemen’s Insurance Company issued this fire mark around 1877. The oval cast iron mark features a central image of a steam-powered fire engine in relief, flanked by the initials “UF.” This fire mark is painted brown. The United Firemen's Insurance Company was incorporated in 1860 by a group of 28 engine and hose companies that were not part of the Fire Association of Philadelphia. Since the Fire Association did not pay dividends to companies that were not members, these twenty-eight companies formed the new United Firemen's Insurance Company of Philadelphia to profit from the insurance business. Steam fire engines were a new technology in 1860, and the UFI's use of a steamer on its fire mark shows a desire to be associated with the latest innovations in firefighting and prevention.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1877
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0448
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0448

Keystone Hook and Ladder Company Fire Hat

Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes.
Description
Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes. During the 19th century, these fire hats became more ornate, as portraits of historical figures, patriotic scenes, allegorical images, or company icons were painted alongside the company’s name, motto, or founding date. Made of pressed felt, these “stove-pipe” hats were primarily used in Philadelphia, but other nearby cities such as Baltimore and Washington adopted them as well. Fire hats were personal items with the owner’s initials often painted on the top of the hat. While these hats were worn at fires, they are more colloquially known as “parade hats.” Fire companies commonly marched in the many parades of the period and these ornate hats contributed to the visual culture of their day. These distinguishing features in a company’s regalia often proclaimed the members’ cultural and political identity as well as their position on contested topics such as work, religion and immigration.
This fire hat was likely used in Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted brown overall with the number “1” painted in gold with a crossed hook and ladder behind the number. The word “Keystone” is painted in gold on a gold-lined banner above the number “1.” The owner’s initials “H.S.G.” can be faintly seen on the back of the hat. “Keystone” was a popular name for fire companies throughout Pennsylvania, including the Keystone Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 of Reading, where this hat may have been used.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0067
catalog number
2005.0233.0067
accession number
2005.0233

Fire Engine Plate, "HIBERNIA, No. 1"

At the core of any fire company is the apparatus used to fight fires and protect lives. This was particularly true of for the volunteer fire fighters in 19th century America.
Description (Brief)
At the core of any fire company is the apparatus used to fight fires and protect lives. This was particularly true of for the volunteer fire fighters in 19th century America. Often purchased with their own funds, their fire engines were the focus of their pride and affection, as well as their identities as fire fighters. Engine plates, often made of brass, would be prominently affixed to engines and inscribed with the company name, number, and founding date. Engine plates could pass from old engine to new, or be kept in the firehouse as a memorial to a departed apparatus.
The brass engine plate was used by the Hibernia Fire Engine Company No.1 of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This rectangular plate has the text “HIBERNIA / No. 1” engraved in wide calligraphic letters with swirling decorative incisions flanking the “No. 1.” The sides of the plate have holes showing where the plate would have been attached to the engine. The Hibernia Fire Engine Company No. 1 was organized in 1752 and 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. It was one of Philadelphia’s largest and oldest companies, and used several different engines and apparatus during its history.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0961
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0961

Fire Engine Plate, "L. Button"

At the core of any fire company is the apparatus used to fight fires and protect lives. This was particularly true of for the volunteer fire fighters in 19th century America.
Description (Brief)
At the core of any fire company is the apparatus used to fight fires and protect lives. This was particularly true of for the volunteer fire fighters in 19th century America. Often purchased with their own funds, their fire engines were the focus of their pride and affection, as well as their identities as fire fighters. Engine plates, often made of brass, would be prominently affixed to engines and inscribed with the company name, number, and founding date. Engine plates could pass from old engine to new, or be kept in the firehouse as a memorial to a departed apparatus.
This metal plate was attached to an engine that was made by Lysander Button of Waterford, New York around 1864. The shield-shaped plate bears the text “L. BUTTON/BUILDER/Waterford, N.Y./PATENTED, 1864/No. 10”with a variety of curving decorative incisions around the text. At the bottom is the maker's mark for the shield itself—“C. E. RICE / WORCESTER." The reverse is stamped “W. L. ROBINSON / 334.” Lysander Button was a machinist working in New York from 1841 to 1882 who held numerous patents relating to the manufacture and operation of hand-pumped and steam fire engines. The 1864 patent listed on this plate was patent number 42,5S7 that related to the improvement in steam fire engines.
Location
Currently not on view
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0949
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0949

Insurance Company of Florida Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Insurance Company of Florida of Jacksonville, Florida issued this fire mark in 1841. The Insurance Company of Florida lasted only a few years. The wooden initials “IF” are affixed to a shield-shaped wooden backing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1841
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0380
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0380

Pittsburgh Navigation and Fire Insurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Pittsburgh Navigation and Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania issued this cast iron fire mark in 1832. The oval mark has raised text around the rim that reads “PITTSBURGH. NAV. &. FIRE/INSURANCE. CO.” and “INSURED” in the center. The Pittsburgh Navigation and Fire Insurance Company operated from 1832 until 1845 when losses suffered in the Great Fire of Pittsburgh forced it to merge with the Western Insurance Company.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1832
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0505
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0505

Hope Hose Company Fire Hat

Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes.
Description
Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes. During the 19th century, these fire hats became more ornate, as portraits of historical figures, patriotic scenes, allegorical images, or company icons were painted alongside the company’s name, motto, or founding date. Made of pressed felt, these “stove-pipe” hats were primarily used in Philadelphia, but other nearby cities such as Baltimore and Washington adopted them as well. Fire hats were personal items with the owner’s initials often painted on the top of the hat. While these hats were worn at fires, they are more colloquially known as “parade hats.” Fire companies commonly marched in the many parades of the period and these ornate hats contributed to the visual culture of their day. These distinguishing features in a company’s regalia often proclaimed the members’ cultural and political identity as well as their position on contested topics such as work, religion and immigration.
This fire hat was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted black overall, with a painting at its center featuring a female figure clothed in a white robe with an anchor at her side and stormy sea behind her. The painting is flanked by red banners with gold trim that read “HOPE / HOSE COMPY” in gold lettering. The back of the hat features the word “HOPE” in large golden letters, with two golden lines above and below. The female figure with anchor is a classical allegorical representation of Hope. Hope Hose Company No. 7 was founded in 1805 in Philadelphia. It was the second Philadelphia fire company to acquire a steam fire engine in 1858, and it changed its name to the Hope Steam Fire Engine Company No. 2.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
associated
Hope Hose Company
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0057
catalog number
2005.0233.0057
accession number
2005.0233

Lumbermen's Insurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Lumbermen’s Insurance Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania issued this cast iron fire mark in 1873. The fire mark consists of an overlapping monogram of the company’s initials, “LI Co” embossed upon an iron square. The mark is framed with four logs that overlap at the corners. The Lumbermen’s was the last newly organized insurance company in Philadelphia to issue a cast iron fire mark.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1873
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0436
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0436

Fire Association of Philadelphia Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Fire Association of Philadelphia issued this cast iron fire mark during the 1860s. The Fire Association’s fire mark consisted of a raised image of an early fire hydrant with hose attached, flanked by the letters F.A. in the center of an oval. The F.A. adopted a fireplug as their symbol to celebrate the contribution of Philadelphia's innovative public water system to their mission of fighting fire. The Fire Association of Philadelphia was an insurance company founded in 1817 by a group of eleven volunteer engine companies and five volunteer hose companies. A percentage of the Fire Association’s insurance company’s profits were distributed to the volunteer companies. The F.A. fire mark was extremely popular, and an estimated 40,000 fire marks were issued during the company’s history. The Fire Association operated until 1958, when it merged with the Reliance Insurance Company of Philadelphia.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1860-1869
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0399
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0399

Northern Liberty Hose Company Fire Hat

Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes.
Description
Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes. During the 19th century, these fire hats became more ornate, as portraits of historical figures, patriotic scenes, allegorical images, or company icons were painted alongside the company’s name, motto, or founding date. Made of pressed felt, these “stove-pipe” hats were primarily used in Philadelphia, but other nearby cities such as Baltimore and Washington adopted them as well. Fire hats were personal items with the owner’s initials often painted on the top of the hat. While these hats were worn at fires, they are more colloquially known as “parade hats.” Fire companies commonly marched in the many parades of the period and these ornate hats contributed to the visual culture of their day. These distinguishing features in a company’s regalia often proclaimed the members’ cultural and political identity as well as their position on contested topics such as work, religion and immigration.
The artistry on this Northern Liberty Hose Company hat combines a number of patriotic emblems. The female figure, an allegorical image of Liberty, is a personification of the United States. In her left hand, she holds a pole with a red liberty cap on top. The liberty cap was originally a Roman symbol given to freed slaves. It became an internationally known symbol of the American Revolution when colonists carried them atop poles in parades and rallies. This fire hat was used by a member of the Northern Liberty Hose Company No. 16 of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, organized in 1828. Also known as Northern Liberty Hose Company No. 4, it operated as a hose company in the Northern Liberty section of Philadelphia. It acquired a steam fire engine in 1859 and changed its name to the Northern Liberty Hose and Steam Fire Engine Company No. 4. It operated until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1835-1860
associated
Northern Liberty Hose Company No. 4
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0073
catalog number
2005.0233.0073
accession number
2005.0233

Dutchess County Insurance Company Fire Mark

Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number.
Description (Brief)
Beginning in the 1750s, some American insurance companies issued metal fire marks to policyholders to signify that their property was insured against fire damage. The fire marks bore the name and/or symbol of the insurer, and some included the customer’s policy number. The company or agent would then affix the mark to the policyholder’s home or business. For owners the mark served as proof of insurance and a deterrent against arson. For insurance companies the mark served as a form of advertising, and alerted volunteer firefighters that the property was insured.
The Dutchess County Insurance Company of Poughkeepsie, New York issued this cast iron fire mark in 1814. The circular mark has a nail hanger at the top, a raised profile image of a Native American wearing a headdress, with the raised initials “DFMLC” around the bottom. The Dutchess County Insurance Company operated from 1814 until around 1828. The initials “F M L” refer to the types of insurance written by the company, “Fire, Marine and Life.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1814
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0551
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0551

Union Fire Company Fire Hat

Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes.
Description
Beginning in the late 18th century, some volunteer fire fighters began to wear hats painted with their company’s name to identify themselves at chaotic fire scenes. During the 19th century, these fire hats became more ornate, as portraits of historical figures, patriotic scenes, allegorical images, or company icons were painted alongside the company’s name, motto, or founding date. Made of pressed felt, these “stove-pipe” hats were primarily used in Philadelphia, but other nearby cities such as Baltimore and Washington adopted them as well. Fire hats were personal items with the owner’s initials often painted on the top of the hat. While these hats were worn at fires, they are more colloquially known as “parade hats.” Fire companies commonly marched in the many parades of the period and these ornate hats contributed to the visual culture of their day. These distinguishing features in a company’s regalia often proclaimed the members’ cultural and political identity as well as their position on contested topics such as work, religion and immigration.
This fire hat dates to the first half of the 19th century. The front of the hat has the text “Union Fire Co.” in gold on an arching banner over a painted gold shield with the painted number “1” at the center. The back of the hat has the date “1747” flanking fasces, though lacking the fasces’ commonly depicted axe. The fasces, a bundle of wooden sticks, were a classical Roman symbol for the power of the state, as well as denoting strength through unity. This symbol would have been used by early American volunteer firefighters to link the young country to the republican ideals of the past, as well as a symbol of their unity.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
associated
Union Fire Company
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0104
catalog number
2005.0233.0104
accession number
2005.0233

"Benjamin Franklin" Engine Panel Painting

In the nineteenth century, volunteer fire companies often commissioned paintings to decorate their hand-pumped fire engines for parades, competitions, and community events.
Description
In the nineteenth century, volunteer fire companies often commissioned paintings to decorate their hand-pumped fire engines for parades, competitions, and community events. Sometimes framed with elaborate carvings, they adorned the tall air chamber located at the middle or rear of a pumper. The paintings would often feature patriotic, heroic, or allegorical images to associate the volunteer companies with these lofty ideals.
This fire engine panel came from the Franklin Engine Company No. 12 of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that was active as a hand engine company from 1792 until 1863 when it acquired a steam fire engine. It operated as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established. The painting “Franklin at Desk” is attributed to David Rent Etter and dates to around 1830. The painting depicts Benjamin Franklin’s dictating his memoirs to his grandson. Benjamin Franklin was well known for organizing the first volunteer fire company in Philadelphia, and his image and his name were popular among the city’s fire companies. By invoking Franklin, volunteer firemen linked themselves to the progenitor of their trade, as well as someone who played a key role in the American Revolution. This painting and its companion piece (object 2005.0233.0018) would have adorned either side of the company’s engine.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1830
referenced
Duplessis, Joseph Siffred
Franklin, Benjamin
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0305
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0305

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