Fire Badge "T.E.D. 601"
Fire Badge "T.E.D. 601"
Usage conditions apply
- Description
- 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.
- This shield-shaped metal badge bears the raised number “601” and an elaborate monogram of the letters “TFD.” The badge has a pin backing. The badge belonged to a member of the Troy (NY) Fire Department. The Stanton Company was established in January 1872 and received its first steam engine the next year. The “TFD” monogram is also seen on object 2005.0233.1347.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Object Name
- badge, fireman's
- fire badge
- date made
- early 20th century
- maker
- unknown
- place made
- United States
- Physical Description
- metal (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 2 1/4 in x 1 7/8 in; 5.715 cm x 4.7625 cm
- ID Number
- 2005.0233.1262
- accession number
- 2005.0233
- catalog number
- 2005.0233.1262
- Credit Line
- Gift of CIGNA Museum and Art Collection
- See more items in
- Cultural and Community Life: Fire Fighting and Law Enforcement
- Work
- Fire Badges
- Firefighting Collection
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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