Fire Hat, Worn by Lieutenant Frank J. Dewey, circa 1872
Add to SetSummary
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
circa 1872
Creators
Unknown
Keywords
Collection Title
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
36.4.38
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Leather
Metal
Brass (Alloy)
Paint (Coating)
Color
Yellow
Black (Color)
Dimensions
Height: 7.75 in
Width: 10.5 in
Depth: 15 in
Inscriptions
13 Painted on helmet: Frank J Dewey Lieutenant Engine Co No 14 Cleveland FD Appointed April 14, 1872
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