Fire Bucket, "Laurel Lodge"

unknown · ca 1820

This early nineteenth century bucket reads “Laurel Lodge.” This may refer to a Masonic Lodge—a local chapter within the larger fraternal organization—such as the one in Laurel Springs, New Jersey. It is also possible that Laurel Lodge was a tavern or an inn. Either way, the lodge would have kept its own buckets in case of fire. The opposite side of the bucket is painted with an insignia featuring a helmet and two crossed swords. This icon is surrounded by green laurel leaves, in keeping with the name of the lodge; laurel is usually symbolic of triumph or fame.