Object Details
- Description
- Some early American firefighters wore capes for protection, ornamentation, and identification. The stiff oil cloth protected their shoulders and upper body against fiery embers and water, and the decorative painting served to identify company members at chaotic fire scenes or on parade. The capes were often painted by local sign painters, some skilled artists like John A. Woodside, who also painted the company’s hats and banners and decorated their fire engines. Many of the capes in the firefighting collection display patriotic names and symbolism, reflecting themes important to 19th century volunteers, as well as the pride they felt in the early founding date of their fire company.
- This oil cloth cape is painted blue with the text "EAGLE No. 3" in gold with red shading, with gold stars on at each end of the cape. “Eagle” was a common name for American fire companies, which used patriotic names and symbolism to proudly link themselves with the newly established United States of America.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- maker
- unknown
- date made
- 1850-1900
- Credit Line
- Gift of CIGNA Museum and Art Collection
- Physical Description
- oil cloth (overall material)
- paint (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 29 in x 44 in; 73.66 cm x 111.76 cm
- Object Name
- cape, fire uniform
