Citizen Fire Company Parade Hat

Citizen Fire Company Parade Hat

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Description
In the early 1800s, classical images associated with Greece and Rome became popular in America. In art and architecture, Americans sought to link their young nation to these republics of antiquity. The Roman goddess Libertas, representing personal sovereignty, was changed into Lady Liberty and adopted as an American symbol. The Citizen Fire Company chose Liberty as their emblem at its founding in 1836. Depicted on this parade hat, the female figure holds an American shield in one hand representing strength and protection. The red liberty cap atop a pole in Liberty's other hand was an internationally known symbol of the American Revolution that was also adopted from the Roman Empire.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
hat, fire
Date made
c.1840-1860
associated
Citizen Fire Company #3
maker
unknown
Place Made
United States
Physical Description
painted (overall production method/technique)
pressed felt (overall material)
yellow (overall color)
red (brim; banner color)
gold (trim color)
black (; letter highlighting color)
green (banner color)
paint (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 8 1/2 in x 10 in x 15 in; 21.59 cm x 25.4 cm x 38.1 cm
ID Number
2005.0233.0027
catalog number
2005.0233.0027
accession number
2005.0233
Credit Line
Gift of CIGNA Museum and Art Collection
subject
Liberty
Fire Fighting
Fraternal Associations
See more items in
Home and Community Life: Fire Fighting and Law Enforcement
Cultures & Communities
Clothing & Accessories
Family & Social Life
Work
American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith
Art
Artifact Walls exhibit
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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