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: Firefighting Collection

Presentation Trumpet "Fireman's Exempt Association"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This silver plated speaking trumpet was presented to the Firemen’s Exempt Association by the Liberty Steam Fire Engine Company, both of Paterson, New Jersey in 1890. The three sections of the trumpet are connected by bulging bands with decorated engravings. The upper section of the trumpet has a floral engraving. The center section of the trumpet has an oval cartouche containing an inscription that is surrounded by floral engravings. The inscription reads “Presented by Liberty S.F.E. Co. No. 7 to the Firemen’s Exempt Assoc. 1890, Patterson, N.J.” The bell of the trumpet has an engraving of a fire engine that is surrounded by floral engravings. An orange braided cord with tassels is attached to the trumpet by rings going through miniature fire helmets. The Firemen’s Exempt Association was a group formed to foster camaraderie between volunteer firemen after they had ceased participating in active duty, and fraternal visits between active fire companies and veterans groups were common practice in 19th century fire service.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1890
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0824
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0824

Presentation Trumpet, "Avoca Hose Co."

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass speaking trumpet was presented to the Avoca Hose Company by John M. Grier in 1887. The brass trumpet has three rounded bands along the shaft. A red braided cord with tassels is tied around the top and bottom of the shaft and strung through two rings attached to the trumpet. A circular plaque attached to the trumpet bears the inscription “Presented to/ Avoca Hose Co. No. 1/ by/ John M. Grier/ May 30th, 1887.” This fire company was likely the one located in Avoca, Pennsylvania rather than Avoca, New York.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1887
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0876
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0876

Presentation Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This silver plated speaking trumpet was made during the 19th century. The trumpet was made as a presentation piece, but the cartouche that normally bears the inscription has no engraving. The bell of the trumpet is fluted, and the trumpet is engraved with a floral motif. A braided blue cord with tassels is strung through the two rings protruding from the trumpet’s shaft.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0892
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0892

Speaking Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass trumpet dates to the 19th century. The trumpet has three rounded bands around the shaft and two rings protruding from the upper and lower bands. The trumpet is highly polished but undecorated.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0910
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0910

Presentation Trumpet, "Andrew J. Walsh"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This pewter speaking trumpet was presented to Andrew J. Walsh during the late 19th century by fellow members of the Hibernia Hook and Ladder Company. The speaking trumpet has two rounded bands around the shaft, with small rings protruding from the bands. A cord could be strung through the rings, to create a carrying strap. The trumpet is engraved with a flower motif. The bell has four different cartouches. The first engraving frames a fire hat, hose, nozzle, fire hook, and two ladders. The second is a crossed hook and ladder flanked by “18” with the text “Hibernia” above and “A.J.W.” below. The third has a rattle, hook, and two crossed trumpets. The fourth has the text “V.F.A.” The center of the trumpet bears the inscription "Andrew J. Walsh" in a ribbon. Andrew Walsh was an esteemed member of the Hibernia Hook and Ladder Company No. 18, located at 195 Elizabeth Street in New York City.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0883
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0883

Presentation Trumpet, "Weccacoe Hose Co."

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This trumpet was likely presented to the Weccacoe Hose Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by the Ramblers Club No. 1. The silver trumpet is divided into three sections, with an inscription on the center section that reads “Presented to / Weccacoe Hose Co. / by the / Ramblers Club No. 1 / May 2nd 1852.” A leather strap is attached to the trumpet by two rings. The fire company was organized on January 8, 1842 and operated until 1854 when it was shut down by city council for fighting. Rambling clubs began in the 19th century as a way for people to escape the industrializing city and walk around nature.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1852
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0830
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0830

Presentation Trumpet, "John A. Johnson"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This silver plated trumpet was awarded to John. A. Johnson of Lafayette Hose Company around 1880. The trumpet has two raised bands with hooks attached to rings that are strung with a red braided cord with tassels. The plain silver trumpet bears the inscription “John A. Johnson, Lafayette Hose Co. No. 22."
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0843
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0843

Work Trumpet, "D.F.D"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass and tin work trumpet was used in the eastern United States around 1832. The upper portion of the trumpet is tin and covered in leather to create a grip, while the lower portion is made of brass. One ring is attached to the bottom of the trumpet to allow a cord to be attached .The initials “D.F.D.” are engraved on the lower half of the trumpet, possibly standing for the Delaware Fire Department.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1832
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0861
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0861

"Tidings from Lexington" 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 engine panel painting came from the Lexington Fire Engine Company No. 7 of New York, New York. The volunteer company was active from December 26, 1849 until September 18, 1865. The painting was signed by artist M. Betsch, and was completed around 1849. This painting depicts a rider (either Paul Revere or William Dawes) bringing news of the skirmish between the American militia and British troops at Lexington. The flag of the United States and the Gadsden (Don’t Tread on Me) flag frame the painting’s title at the bottom. The Lexington Fire Company used this painting to link their company to the patriotic deeds of their predecessors in the Revolutionary War. This painting and its companion piece (object 2005.0233.0302) would have adorned the sides of the company’s engines.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1849
maker
Betsch, M.
ID Number
2005.0233.0301
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0301

Presentation Trumpet, "New Jersey Company, No. 4"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass and silver plated speaking trumpet dates to 1852. The lower and upper section of the trumpet is plated in silver. There is a braided red cord with tassels that is strung through two rings along the trumpets’ shaft. There is a silver shield-shaped plaque attached to the trumpet that bears the inscription “Presented Sept. 20, 1852/ To the New Jersey Co. No. 4/ By a friend A.N.B.S./ For the use of the carriage.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1852
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0882
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0882

Work Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass speaking trumpet was likely used during the second half of the 19th century. There are three raised bands around the shaft with minor beading around each band. There are two plain cord rings attached to the shaft. The trumpet shows signs of wear and has a few dents around the shaft.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0853
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0853

"Washington at the Battle of Trenton" 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 engine panel painting is attributed to the Washington Fire Company No.14 of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that was founded in 1796. Originally organized as a hand engine company, it acquired a steam fire engine in 1858 and operated as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established. John A. Woodside completed this oil painting in 1853, copying it from “George Washington Before the Battle of Trenton,” painted by John Trumbull in 1792. The painting depicts Washington surveying the battleground, with Continental troops in the background. The volunteer fire company named itself after Washington and commissioned the painting to link itself with Washington’s prestige America’s foremost Founding Father.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1853
referenced
Trumbull, John
Washington, George
maker
Woodside, John Archibald
ID Number
2005.0233.0309
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0309

Work Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This nickel-copper work trumpet was used in the United States during the 19th century. The plain metal horn has a metal handle with a chain attached. The trumpet’s bell is dented and the trumpet looks as if it has been heavily used.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0904
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0904

Work Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass work trumpet dates to the 19th century. The unadorned trumpet has two rings protruding from its side, allowing a cord to be attached to the trumpet to create a strap.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0894
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0894

Work Trumpet, "California"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass work trumpet was in use around the early 19th century. The horn is dented and is made of a single piece of brass. A long braided cord is tied around the trumpet near the mouthpiece and attached to a hook by the trumpet’s bell. The word “California” seems to be engraved on the trumpet.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0834
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0834

Presentation Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This presentation trumpet was made in the United States during the 19th century. The upper part of the trumpet’s shaft features an engraved fleur de lis pattern. The center part of the trumpet’s shaft has two oval cartouches; one is blank while the other features an engraved image of two crossed fire hooks and ladders. There is a sunburst and floral pattern engraved between the two ovals. The trumpet’s bell has an engraved image of a steam fire engine set inside a floral frame. A repeating floral pattern links to the next floral frame which has an engraved image of a spider-type hose reel inside. A blue cord with tassels is attached to the trumpet through two rings.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0908
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0908

Work Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This highly polished brass work trumpet was used around 1835. The trumpet has a rounded band in the center, as well as a band around the mouthpiece and bell.
date made
1835
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0857
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0857

Presentation Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This silver plated presentation trumpet was made during the 19th century. The bell of the trumpet is fluted with floral images engraved around it. Just above the bell is an engraving of a steam engine inside a diamond frame. The center section has a diagonal banded design with ladders and floral engravings. Two rings protrude from the shaft of the trumpet that would have allowed a cord to be attached to the trumpet.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0868
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0868

Work Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass speaking trumpet was used around the middle of the 19th century. The trumpet has a band around the center of the shaft and two rings that could be used for attaching a cord to the trumpet. The bell and shaft of the trumpet has a variety of dents.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
unknown
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0858
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0858

Presentation Trumpet, "Weccacoe Fire Company"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This trumpet was presented to the Weccacoe Fire Company of Camden, New Jersey by the citizens of Camden, New Jersey in 1837. The trumpet is in two sections, the shaft has a crenulated edge at the base with a raised leaf band. The trumpet has a stippled background overall, with raised floral engravings throughout. A shield bears the inscription “Presented to Weccacoe Fire Company by Citizens of Camden, N.J. October 5th 1837.” Below the inscription is an image of a fire house (possibly Weccacoe’s) engraved in an oval cartouche. The trumpet has two hooks that would have been used to attach a cord. The Weccacoe Fire Company operated in Camden, New Jersey from 1800 to 1854.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1837
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0828
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0828

Presentation Trumpet, "General Phinney"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This silver plated presentation trumpet was used by the General Phinney Engine Company of Scranton, Pennsylvania in 1877. The trumpet is decorated with engravings and repousse patterns of leaves, flowers, palmettes, scrolls and the like. An inscription is surrounded by a floral oval cartouche that reads “General Phinney/ ENGINE CO./ No. 4/ Organized/ Feb. 29, 1877/ Scranton, Pa.” The other side of the trumpet bears an engraved image of a spider type hose reel. Two eagle heads are attached to the trumpet and hold rings in their beaks that connected by a thin ribbon. General Elisha Phinney was a prominent figure in Scranton in the second half of the 19th century. Phinney ran a wholesale flour and feed business, opened and operated a series of mines, organized and directed the Second National Bank of Scranton, was president of the Merchant’s and Mechanics Bank, president of the Stowers’ Packing and Provision Company, and Treasurer of the Lackawann and Susquehanna Coal and Iron Company. He received his title of General as a member of the antebellum militia, but organized and equipped volunteer regiments when the Civil War began. The General Phinney Engine Company Number 4 was located at 4 Dickson Avenue in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1877
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0847
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0847

Work Trumpet, "Delaware Fire Co."

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass trumpet was used by the Delaware Fire Company likely based in Trenton, New Jersey. The trumpet is painted brown, and the text “Delaware Fire Co./ Organized 1821/ Columbia” has been painted in a cream color on the side.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0838
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0838

Presentation Trumpet, "Vigilant Engine Company"

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This brass speaking trumpet was presented to the Vigilant Engine Company of Paterson, New Jersey in 1879. The trumpet is adorned with a variety of repoussé patterns and engravings. The trumpet is decorated with a floral motif, with shell designs around the rounded bands of the trumpet. The bands are decorated with raised ovals that encircle the shaft. The bell has a raised image of a crossed hook and ladder behind a work helmet. A shield-shaped insert on the center of the shaft bears the inscription “Presented/ to/ Vigilant Engine Company No. 6/ of Patterson NJ/ at the/ Annual Fair/ of/ Wilis St. Baptist Church/ April 1879.” Above the shield are two axes, two swords, and a belt. A braided red cord is tied to the top and bottom of the trumpet to create a strap. The Vigilant Engine Company was founded on January 1st, 1867.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1879
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0911
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0911

Work Trumpet

As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations.
Description (Brief)
As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
This tin work trumpet was made around 1800. The metal trumpet is painted yellow, but the paint has chipped and flaked in many places. Two small rings on the top and bottom of the shaft would have been used to attach a cord to the trumpet.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1800
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0878
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0878

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