Model of a Firefighter's Coal Cart, circa 1900

01

Artifact Overview

American firefighters began using steam-powered water pumps to combat fires in the 1840s. These steam engines were more efficient and more effective than the hand-powered pumps they replaced. Firefighters needed a ready supply of coal to keep boilers operating. This model represents a coal cart that would have been used with a steam fire engine.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Model (Representation)

Date Made

circa 1900

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

63.119.3

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of James Balcom.

Material

Wood (Plant material)
Metal
Paint (Coating)

Color

Red
Brown
Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 10 in
Width: 9 in
Length: 22 in