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.

Date: 1860s

Fairmount 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 was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted red overall, with a central image of a fountain with a statue of a woman and long-necked bird in an oval frame flanked by aqua-colored banners with the gold text “Fair Mount.” William Rush created this statue “Nymph and Bittern” to commemorate the completion of the Centre Square Water Works, providing Philadelphia with public water that was a boon to the city’s fire fighters. The back of the hat features an image of a yellow fire hydrant on a brown background inside a golden oval, flanked by the letters “FA” 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, of which Fairmount was a member. The Fairmount Fire Engine Company No. 32 was founded in 1823 and operated in the Spring Garden area of Philadelphia. Originally organized as a hand engine company, the company acquired a steam fire engine in 1860 and operated as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
Currently not on view (labels)
date made
1820-1860
maker
Shotwell & Garden
original artist
Rush, William
ID Number
2005.0233.0036
catalog number
2005.0233.0036
accession number
2005.0233

Good Will 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 was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. This black hat has been painted black overall, with the text “GOOD WILL/1802” painted in gold on the front of the hat. The back of the hat has the company’s initials “G.W.” painted in gold, and the owner’s initials “G.B.” on the top. The Good Will Fire Engine Company No. 20 was founded in the Northern Liberties area of Philadelphia in 1802, which at the time was a separate municipality. It acquired an Isaac P. Morris & Co. steam fire engine in 1859 and operated as the Good Will Steam Fire Engine Company No. 20 until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established. The steam engine was later used by the Engine Company No. 17 of the paid city fire department from 1871 until 1888.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0049
catalog number
2005.0233.0049
accession number
2005.0233

Monroe Fire Company Fire Hat

This fire hat was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted red overall, with a large illustration of a rising golden sun on the front of the hat.
Description
This fire hat was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted red overall, with a large illustration of a rising golden sun on the front of the hat. There is a black banner on the front with large golden letters that read “MONROE.” The back of the hat has the date “1823” painted in gold on the back of the hat between two patterned lines. The Monroe Fire Engine Company was established in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on March 8th, 1823, and likely named after President James Monroe, who was in office at the time of its founding. The Monroe operated as a hand engine company until the company acquired a steam fire engine in 1863. It served as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1823-1860
associated
Monroe Fire Company
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0068
catalog number
2005.0233.0068
accession number
2005.0233

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 the eastern United States during 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 golden lines above and below. The crown of the hat has the owner’s initials “R.W.J.” painted in gold. The female figure with anchor is a classical allegorical representation of Hope.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
associated
Hope Hose Company
original artist
Woodside, John Archibald
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0056
catalog number
2005.0233.0056
accession number
2005.0233

Friendship 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 was used in Baltimore, Maryland during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted red with the text “FRIENDSHIP/F. Co.” painted in gold on the front and the date “1839” painted in gold on the back. This hat deviates from the stove-pipe style prevalent among other fire hats of the period, as it has a peaked crown. The Friendship Fire Company of Baltimore, Maryland was organized in 1785, and chartered in 1839.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
associated
Friendship Fire Company
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0041
catalog number
2005.0233.0041
accession number
2005.0233

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, Pennsylvania issued this cast iron fire mark in 1869. 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
1869
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0412
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0412

Friendship 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 was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted black overall, with the text “Friendship/1796” painted in gold across the front. The owner’s initials “J.L.B.” are painted in white on the crown of the hat. The initials “F.A.” are painted in gold on the back of the hat. The Fire Association of Philadelphia was an insurance company founded by a group of eleven volunteer engine companies and five volunteer hose companies in 1817, of which Friendship was a member. The Friendship Fire Engine Company No. 15 was founded on August 18th, 1796, in the Northern Liberties area of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and operated as a hand fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0044
catalog number
2005.0233.0044
accession number
2005.0233

Morris Hose 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 dates to the middle of the 19th century. The hat is painted black overall, with the text “MORRIS/HOSE” painted in gold with red shadowing over a painting of a rising sun and clouds. The date “1831” is painted in gold on the back of the hat, and the name “J Lee” is painted in gold on the crown of the hat. The Robert Morris Fire Hose Company No. 19 was founded on March 14, 1831 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and operated until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established. A successful Philadelphia merchant and Revolutionary leader, Robert Morris signed the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and played a major role in financing the American Revolutionary War.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1830-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0114
catalog number
2005.0233.0114
accession number
2005.0233

Mechanic Engine 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 hat is painted light purple overall, with a central painting of a blacksmith at a forge with the text “MECHANIC / ENGINE Co.” in gold in arching banners above. The image is inspired by John Neagle’s painting “Pat Lyon at the Forge.” Lyon was a successful blacksmith who manufactured early fire engines for volunteer companies in Philadelphia. The back of the hat has a five-pointed golden star with the number “26” in the center. The owner’s initials “G.W.F.” are painted in gold on the crown of the hat. The Mechanic Fire Engine Company No. 26 was founded on August 4, 1839 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as a hand engine company until it acquired a steam fire engine in 1859. It operated as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established. Note: See companion piece 2005.0233.0170. The number on the helmet is 37 instead of 26.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
associated
Mechanic Engine Company
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0116
catalog number
2005.0233.0116
accession number
2005.0233

Hibernia 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 was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted dark green overall, and the front bears a painted image of a spread-winged eagle, grasping an olive branch in one talon and three arrows in the other, with a golden harp hanging from a chain in its beak. There is a red banner on top of the image with the text “HIBERNIA” in gold. The image is reminiscent of the bald eagle on the seal of the United States, but the harp as a symbol of Ireland replaces the U.S. shield. The imagery points to the Hibernia Fire Company blending its Irish heritage with American patriotic ideals. The back of the hat has the date “1752” painted in gold. An encircled number one painted in gold is located on the crown of the hat. The Hibernia Fire Engine Company No. 1 was founded in 1752 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0063
catalog number
2005.0233.0063
accession number
2005.0233

Decatur Fire Engine Company Fire Hat

This hat was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat has been painted red with a portrait of Commodore Stephen Decatur framed in gold. American flags and black banners with gold trim surround the portrait.
Description
This hat was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat has been painted red with a portrait of Commodore Stephen Decatur framed in gold. American flags and black banners with gold trim surround the portrait. The banners bear the gold text “DECATUR/F.E. CO.” The back of the hat features a gold painted image of an early fire hydrant with gushing hose attached, flanked by the letters “FA”. 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 top of the hat bears the owner’s initials “N.C.” painted in gold. The Decatur Fire Engine Company No. 21 was founded in 1803 in the Frankford neighborhood of Philadelphia as a hand engine company. It acquired a steam fire engine in 1859 and operated as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established. Originally known as Good Will Frankford Fire Company No. 2, the company renamed itself in 1842 after Stephen Decatur, the famous naval officer and hero of the War of 1812, whose father had resided in Frankford.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
depicted
Decatur, Stephen
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0031
catalog number
2005.0233.0031
accession number
2005.0233

Harmony 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 pressed felt fire hat was used in the eastern United States during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted black overall with the text “HARMONY/FIRE CO.” painted in gold with red shadowing on the front. The date “1849” is painted in gold with red shadowing on the back of the hat. The Harmony Fire Company of Trenton, New Jersey was formed on May 9th 1849.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1850-1860
associated
Harmony Fire Company
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0054
catalog number
2005.0233.0054
accession number
2005.0233

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
2005.0233.0398
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0398

Eagle 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 pressed felt fire hat was used in the eastern United States during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted black overall, with the text “Eagle Fire/Co.” in gold paint with red shadowing on the front. The back of the hat features a yellow image of a wooden fire hydrant flanked by the date “1821.” The crown of the hat has a shield with red and white stripes and the initials “A.C.” This hat likely belonged to a member of the Eagle Fire Company of Trenton, New Jersey that was founded in 1821.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1820-1860
associated
Eagle Fire Company
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0033
catalog number
2005.0233.0033
accession number
2005.0233

City Mutual 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 City Mutual Fire Insurance Company of St. Louis, Missouri issued this zinc fire mark around 1861. The oval mark features raised text that reads “CITY/MUTUAL.” The City Mutual Fire Insurance Company operated in St. Louis from 1861 until 1878.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1861
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0510
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0510

Insurance Company of North America 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 North America of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania issued this tinned sheet iron fire mark around 1865. The rectangular fire mark bears raised block lettering that reads “NORTH AMERICA/PHILADELPHIA/A.D. 1794.” The background of the mark was painted brown, and the lettering is painted gold. A group of influential citizens in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania founded the Insurance Company of North America in 1792. The INA was the first joint stock insurance company in the United States, and focused its business on marine and fire insurance. The Insurance Company of North America and related companies merged with the Connecticut General Life Insurance Company in 1982 to become the CIGNA Corporation. A later sale made INA a part of ACE Holdings, where it still operates today.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1865
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0572
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0572

Junior 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 was used in Reading, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted red overall, with the “JUNIOR/1813” painted in gold on the front of the hat, and a golden number “2” painted on the back of the hat. The crown of the hat has the word “CAMEL.” painted in gold surrounded by two geometric sunburst patterns. This hat was likely used by a member of the Junior Fire Company that was founded on December 2, 1813 in Reading, Pennsylvania.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1813-1860
associated
Junior Fire Company
ID Number
2005.0233.0065
catalog number
2005.0233.0065
accession number
2005.0233

Laclede Mutual Fire and Marine 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 Laclede Mutual Fire and Marine Insurance Company of St. Louis, Missouri issued this zinc fire mark in 1865. The oval mark has a raised image of two hands shaking in the center of the mark, with the raised text “LACLEDE/MUTUAL” around the rim. The Laclede Mutual Fire and Marine Insurance Company operated from 1859 until 1903.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1865
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0523
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0523

Viligant 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 Baltimore, Maryland during the early-to-mid 19th century. The hat is painted green overall, with a single eye inside a golden sunburst painted on the front of the hat. This is the Eye of Providence, or the All-Seeing Eye, which represents an omnipresent gaze, a suitable icon for a company that called itself Vigilant. The other side of the hat has the golden text “VIGILANT” painted on a black background in a golden frame. The crown of the hat has the owner’s initials “J.R.” painted in gold. The Vigilant Fire Company was founded in Baltimore on January 18th, 1804 and operated until the introduction of the paid fire department in 1859.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0092
catalog number
2005.0233.0092
accession number
2005.0233

Hand-in-Hand 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 was used in the eastern United States during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted black overall, with the text “Hand in Hand/Fire/Co” painted in gold on the front of the hat, and the image of two clasped hands shaking in gold on the back of the hat. The “hand in hand” name and clasped hand symbol were popular among volunteer fire fighting companies and fire insurance companies during this period. It symbolized the mutual assistance needed to combat fires and the fraternal ties of fire companies prevalent in early American communities.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0051
catalog number
2005.0233.0051
accession number
2005.0233

Harmony 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 was used in the eastern United States during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted black overall, with the text “HARMONY” arching over the image of a speaking trumpet, all painted in gold on the hat’s front. The painting on the back of the hat has deteriorated, but there are traces of a fire hydrant painted in gold with the text “WE [illegible] TO SERVE” arching above. The owner’s initials “C.P.S.” are painted in gold on the crown of the hat. A speaking trumpet, as seen on this hat, was a necessary tool to shout commands over the noise and disorder of a fire scene. The trumpets became well known as a symbol of authority, and continue to serve as rank insignia in fire departments. The fire hydrant, which is the symbol of the Fire Association of Philadelphia, suggests that the hat may have belonged to a member of the Harmony Engine Company No. 6. Founded in 1784, 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
1810-1860
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0053
catalog number
2005.0233.0053
accession number
2005.0233

Neptune 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 by a member of the Neptune Hose Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted brown overall, with painted golden text on the front that reads “NEUPTUNE/HOSE.” The back of the hat has the date “1805” painted in gold, and the owner’s initials “J.R.F.” in gold on the crown of the hat. The Neptune Hose Company was founded on August 6th, 1805 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1810-1860
associated
Neptune Hose Company
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0071
catalog number
2005.0233.0071
accession number
2005.0233

Kenton 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 Kenton Insurance Company of Covington, Kentucky issued this tinned sheet iron fire mark in 1867. The rectangular mark has a raised border with raised central text that reads “KENTON/KENTUCKY.” The company was originally incorporated as the City Fire and Marine of Louisville in 1860. In 1867 the charter was amended, and the name was changed to Kenton Insurance Company. Kenton operated until 1891, when it retired and reinsured in the National Fire Insurance Company of Hartford, Connecticut.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1867
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0539
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0539

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, Pennsylvania issued this cast iron fire mark for policy number 31968 in 1863. 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 grass around the fireplug bears some faded green paint, and the policy number is painted in gold at the bottom. 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
1863
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.0407
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0407

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