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 blue overall with the name “Hand in Hand” painted in gold text with red shading and the date “1772” in gold with light blue shading below. The number “2” is painted in gold with light blue shading on the shoulders. The cape belonged to a member of the Hand in Hand Fire Company of York, Pennsylvania. The Hand in Hand Company was founded in 1772, and was one of the oldest companies in the country.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- maker
- unknown
- date made
- 19th century
- Credit Line
- Gift of CIGNA Museum and Art Collection
- Physical Description
- oil cloth (overall material)
- paint (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 29 in x 43 1/2 in; 73.66 cm x 110.49 cm
- Object Name
- cape, fire uniform
