This badge belonged to a delegate from the South Bethlehem Fire Department to the Four-County Firemen’s Association convention at Lehigh University in 1912. The Four-County Firemen’s Association consisted of fire companies from Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, and North Hampton Counties in eastern Pennsylvania. The Association’s annual convention began in 1897, and continued into the 21st century. Conventions were held to foster camaraderie through a variety of competitions, share firefighting tips, and memorialize fallen comrades.
The badge is made of three sections, linked by chains. The upper section has a banner that reads “SO. BETLEHEM 1912” with a decoration of a fire hat and crossed fire axes. The middle section reads “DELEGATE” in raised lettering. The lower section bears an image of Lehigh University’s University Center building, with the text “LEHIGH UNI.” above and “FOUR COUNTY/FIREMENS/ASSOCIATION” below, all set inside a keystone-shaped frame. A banner reads “CARBON/LEHIGH” and “MONROE/NORTH-/HAMPTON” across the lower section.
This white metal fire badge departs from the common shield, circle, or Maltese-cross badge design in favor of a curved rectangular form. The decoration on the badge also differs from many of the other badges in the collection. The badge may in fact have been used as a helmet frontpiece rather than a badge, although it is somewhat smaller than most.
The badge has a central cartouche with a bronze-colored banner that is inscribed “ASSISTANT” filled with black enamel above the bronze raised numeral “VI.” Two fire plugs left and right of the badge’s lower portion have hoses that frame the badge and whose nozzles cross at the top of the badge. A hook and ladder are crossed at the bottom of the badge, while a crossed fireman’s lantern and axe are at the top of the badge.
This silver-colored metal fire badge has a faceted rim and a stippled background. The top of the badge bears the raised initials “C.F.D.” A bronze-colored raised number “1” is in the center of the badge, with a raised image of a ladder truck below.
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 metal fire badge has a spread–winged eagle at its top. The rim of the badge is inscribed "Pioneer/S.L.F.D." An image of a steam fire engine is in the center of the badge.
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.
In the early days of firefighting, insurance companies and fire departments worked together at a fire scene. Fire patrols were organized by insurance companies to patrol a neighborhood and report any fires that occurred, inspect buildings for fire hazards, and work with the fire department to prevent loss of life and property. Patrol wagons were equipped with rubber blankets to protect property from water damage, fire extinguishers, and buckets to squelch small fires, and would pump water from cellars and mop it up from roofs after the fire had been extinguished.
This metal shield-shaped fire badge belonged to a patrolman of the Fire Insurance Patrol of the City of Philadelphia. The badge is decorated with a small torch at the top and a plaque with floral decorations at the bottom. Upper and lower banners read “PHILADA / FIRE INSURANCE / PATROL” in raised letters. The center of the badge bears the raised white metal badge number “62.” The Fire Insurance Patrol operated from 1869 until 1962.
In the early days of firefighting, insurance companies and fire departments worked together at a fire scene. Fire patrols were organized by insurance companies to cover a neighborhood and report any fires that occurred, inspect buildings for fire hazards, and work with the fire department to prevent loss of life and property. Patrol wagons were equipped with rubber blankets to protect property from water damage, fire extinguishers, and buckets to squelch small fires, and would pump water from cellars and mop it up from roofs after the fire was extinguished.
This metal shield-shaped fire badge belonged to the president of the Fire Insurance Patrol of the City of Philadelphia. The badge is decorated with a small torch at the top and an unmarked plaque with floral decorations at the bottom. Upper and lower banners read “PRESIDENT / FIRE INSURANCE / PATROL” in raised letters. The center of the badge bears an image of a group of firemen in a horse-drawn cart on a patrol. The Fire Insurance Patrol operated from 1869 until 1962. The President was always held by an insurance company executive.
This shield-shaped metal badge is inscribed “C.F.D. /1” with the number “125” in a plaque at the top of the badge. The badge is decorated with an image of a hook and ladder truck.
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 silver-plated shield-shaped badge bears the engraved block lettering "Hose Reel / 5 / T.H." It was likely used by a member of a hose company during the late 19th century.
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 circular metal badge belonged to a member of the fire department of Plainfield, New Jersey. The badge’s rim is decorated with an encircled hose. The ridged background of the badge holds a raised inscription that reads “PLAINFIELD/24/FIRE DEPT.”
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 is an uninscribed circular metal fire badge. The badge has a rim that is made to resemble a riveted hose. The badge is decorated with a fire helmet at the top, a fire hydrant in the center, and two crossed hose nozzles at the bottom.
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 oval fire badge is inscribed with the number “2” in the center, above a banner that reads “R.F.D.” Both inscriptions are filled in with black enamel. The rim of the badge is made to resemble riveted hose, and the badge is decorated with two crossed trumpets.
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 is inscribed “C.F.D. /1” with the number “125” in a plaque at the top of the badge. The badge is decorated with an image of a hook and ladder fire truck.
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 circular metal badge reads "WORCESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT" in block lettering around the rim with the number "55" in a banner at the bottom of the badge. The center of the badge reads "ASST. FOREMAN HOSE" around the number "2"—all in blue enamel.
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 fire badge belonged to the fire department of Harrison, New Jersey. The top of the badge is adorned with a fire helmet in front of a crossed trumpet and hose nozzle. The silver colored badge has a stippled background, with the text “HARRISON/DEPARTMENT” in upper and lower banners. Below the upper banner is the text “FIRE” with a raised number “126” in the center.
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 fire badge belonged to a foreman of Salem Fire Engine No. 2. The badge’s rim is decorated with a geometric pattern. The badge has an upper banner that reads “FOREMAN” above an image of a steam fire engine. Below the engine is an inscription of the number “2” with the text “SALEM” below. The text is accented with various decorative inscriptions.
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 fire badge was used by a member of the Franklin Hose Company No. 6 in an unidentified locale. The badge belonged to a second assistant engineer of the company, likely with the initials “MJL” that are inscribed on the bottom of the badge. The badge has a decorative etching around the rim, and bears the inscription “2nd/ASST.ENGINEER/FRANKLIN/F6D/HOSE/MJL.”
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 fire badge has a hatched edge and an engraved central image of a four wheeled hose carriage filled with black enamel. The badge is engraved with the text “N.B./HOSE/2/DEPT” colored with black enamel. Various decorative accents are etched into the badge around the text and hose reel.
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 fire badge was issued by the Watertown Fire Department, likely located in either Connecticut or Massachusetts. The rim of the badge is decorated with embossed stars. A large number “1” is engraved in the center of the badge, with a small number “6” underneath. The top of the badge is engraved “Watertown,” and the bottom reads “FIRE DEPt.”
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 fire badge belonged to a member of the Harrison, New Jersey fire department. The top of the badge is adorned with a fire helmet in front of a crossed trumpet and hose nozzle. The silver plated badge has a stippled background, with the text “HARRISON/DEPARTMENT” in upper and lower banners. Below the upper banner is the text “FIRE” with a brass number “41” in the center.
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 round metal fire badge has a stippled background and a leafy overlay border. A banner at the top of the badge reads "J.C.F.D." above a silver number "1" in the center of the badge. An image of a hand pumped fire engine is at the bottom of the badge, above the number "60" in an oval. The badge likely belonged to a member of the Jersey City (New Jersey) Fire Department.
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.