Fire Hat, Worn by Lieutenant Frank J. Dewey, circa 1872

01

Artifact Overview

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 Details

Artifact

Fire hat

Date Made

circa 1872

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 (Color)
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
Fire Hat, Worn by Lieutenant Frank J. Dewey, circa 1872