Fire Helmet, "G. L. B."

unknown · 1835

Before they became established as decorative assets of parades and celebrations, early, "stovepipe-style" fire hats were used in actual firefighting. They served to protect firefighters' heads from falling debris and, by the later years of the eighteenth century, at least, to identify firefighters by company and name. This simple tin, "stovepipe-style" fire hat from the 1830s may have been displayed in parades but was primarily used as a work hat in actual fires. Since this particular hat does not include company information, it was likely worn to protect rather than identify the firefighter. This plain hat comes with a sweatband and is painted red with a black brim, bearing the initials "G.L.B."