The photos you see here of several pieces of fire gear, including helmets, badges, lanterns, boots and clothing, offer just a glimpse of the type of gear in our collection. Please enjoy the photos below, but to really experience more than 300 years of firefighting, come visit the Museum soon!

	The first badges were issued in 1855 in NY City and worn by firemen in order to prevent those not firemen from entering the scene. The badge, made of “Princes Metal,” bore a number which was kept on record at the fire department to identify the owner. All firemen were required by law to wear their badge while on duty.
	Jacobus Turck, a caretaker of New York’s first fire engines, was credited with having invented the leather fire cap sometime before 1740. This was described as round with a high crown, narrow brim, and made of leather. It was made to resist the force of fallings bricks, with a brim to prevent hot cinders and water from running down the neck of the wearer.
	Hylas S&B (salvage & bucket) painted on front with leather eagle holder, “Organized 1839” painted on rear brim. This style helmet was used for light duty and salvage work in the mid 1800’s.
	Dietz tubular “bulls eye” lantern, patented Jan.1, 1889, sits with an early stovepipe style hat, made of pressed felt. Hat lettered “HYLAS”, with bucket lettered “S & B 25”, (salvage & bucket Company 25.)
	Example of early style rubber boots (without steel toes) and aluminum helmets on display.

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