Fire Badge "Excelsior Hose No. 4"

Description: This circular fire badge was used by a member of the Excelsior Hose Company No. 4 of Kingston, New York. A spread–winged eagle is perched at the top of the badge. In the center of the silver badge is a brass image of a four wheeled hose carriage apparatus. The rim around the hose carriage reads “EXCELSIOR HOSE/KINGSTON, N.Y.” At the bottom of the badge is a plaque inscribed with the number “4” with two trumpets crossed behind it.; Metal firefighter’s badges were a part of the firefighter’s uniform since volunteer companies began to proliferate in the early 19th century. As volunteer companies gave way to municipal fire departments during the mid–19th century, these badges became mandated by uniform codes. Badges served as official identification at fire scenes, as access to derelict buildings by unscrupulous citizens could result in looting. Fire badges came in a variety of shapes, most notably circular, shield–shaped, or the Maltese cross. While shield–shaped badges were often worn on the chest, circular and cross-shaped badges can be seen on jacket lapels or soft caps. Badges usually detailed the company’s name, number and department, and were often decorated with various symbols of the profession such as hose carriages, hand–pumped engines, hoses, trumpets, helmets, hooks, and ladders. For paid municipal companies, many badges also featured the badge number of the wearer.
Location: Currently not on view

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