Fireman's Hat, 1890-1920

Summary

No piece of equipment symbolizes a firefighter's dangerous work like the fire helmet. Its hard shell protects from falling debris, and its oversized brim directs water away from the neck. Early helmets were made from leather, while later versions featured metal shells. Modern helmets use lightweight composite materials, but they retain the familiar shape.

No piece of equipment symbolizes a firefighter's dangerous work like the fire helmet. Its hard shell protects from falling debris, and its oversized brim directs water away from the neck. Early helmets were made from leather, while later versions featured metal shells. Modern helmets use lightweight composite materials, but they retain the familiar shape.

Artifact

Fire hat

Date Made

1890-1920

Creators

Cairns & Bro. 

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

36.4.12

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Leather
Metal
Paint (Coating)

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 8.75 in

Width: 11 in

Length: 13 in

Inscriptions

on shield: Fireman 2 JJS

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