Monroe Fire Company Fire Hat

Monroe Fire Company · 1823-1860

This fire hat was used in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the first half of the 19th century. The hat is painted red overall, with a large illustration of a rising golden sun on the front of the hat. There is a black banner on the front with large golden letters that read “MONROE.” The back of the hat has the date “1823” painted in gold on the back of the hat between two patterned lines. The Monroe Fire Engine Company was established in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on March 8th, 1823, and likely named after President James Monroe, who was in office at the time of its founding. The Monroe operated as a hand engine company until the company acquired a steam fire engine in 1863. It served as a steam fire engine company until 1871 when Philadelphia’s paid firefighting department was established.