Work Trumpet

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 is plain and unadorned with a vertical seam running along the shaft. The trumpet is painted black with signs of use through wear and tear.
Location: Currently not on view

See more items in: Home and Community Life: Fire Fighting and Law Enforcement; Work; Cultures & Communities; Firefighting Collection; Speaking Trumpets

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