Competition, fraternal bonds and honorable service were the hallmarks of 19th century fire companies, and ornate trophies served as recognition of these values. Trophies were often presented to veteran officers in appreciation of their service. One fire company might give a commemorative trophy to another as a goodwill offering or in gratitude for their hospitality. Trophies and other awards could also be won in competitions between fire companies to demonstrate their professional skills, or even in sporting contests like baseball.
This coin silver pitcher was made by Peter L. Krider of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1851. The pitcher was presented the same year as a trophy to Robert Tempest, the President of the Hibernia Fire Engine Company. The inscription on the front reads, “Presented to ROBERT TEMPEST, President of the HIBERNIA FIRE ENGINE COMPANY, No. 1, by his fellow-members, as a token of their high regard for him as a Fireman and Presiding Officer, February 20th, 1851.” The back of the trophy is inscribed, “Reward of merit.” Robert Tempest was a successful Philadelphia jeweler with the firm of Marshall and Tempest. He joined Hibernia in 1814, having originally served as a volunteer with the Sun Engine Company.
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