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

- circa 1872
- Collections - Artifact
Fire Hat, Worn by Lieutenant Frank J. Dewey, circa 1872
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.
- Fire Trumpet, Used by Captain G. Gairns, 1887 - Firefighters used trumpets to amplify their voices when shouting instructions during a fire. Over time, trumpets took on a symbolic meaning. Special presentation trumpets were awarded to honor firefighters' service or achievements. This trumpet was given to Captain G. Gairns after he was injured, and nearly killed, in an accident while battling a fire in 1887.

- November 11, 1887
- Collections - Artifact
Fire Trumpet, Used by Captain G. Gairns, 1887
Firefighters used trumpets to amplify their voices when shouting instructions during a fire. Over time, trumpets took on a symbolic meaning. Special presentation trumpets were awarded to honor firefighters' service or achievements. This trumpet was given to Captain G. Gairns after he was injured, and nearly killed, in an accident while battling a fire in 1887.