Fire Hat, circa 1890

THF188540 / Fire Hat, circa 1890
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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 1890

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2000.0.51.20

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Paint (Coating)
Leather

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 8.75 in
Width: 11 in
Depth: 14 in

Inscriptions

PATENTED JUL 1885 MAY 1876 JUL 1887 CAIRNS & BRO MAKERS NEW YORK [on label inside helmet]
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