Presentation Trumpet, "Weccacoe Hose Co."

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.

Description (Brief)

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.