Object Details
- Description (Brief)
- As more American volunteer fire fighting companies began to form during the late 18th century, a need emerged for better organized efforts in combating conflagrations. Engineers and officers would use “speaking trumpets” to amplify their voices over the noise and commotion of a fire scene to direct the company in effectively fighting the blaze. Two trumpet variants are reflected in the collection: plain and functional “working” trumpets that were actively used at fires, and highly decorated “presentation” trumpets. Presentation trumpets were awarded to firefighters in honor of their service, or between fire companies during visits, competitions, and musters.
- This brass and tin work trumpet was used around 1832. The upper portion of the trumpet is tin and covered in leather to create a grip, while the lower portion is made of brass. One ring is attached to the bottom of the trumpet to allow a cord to be attached .The initials “D.F.D.” are engraved on the lower half of the trumpet, possibly standing for the Delaware Fire Department.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- maker
- unknown
- date made
- unknown
- Credit Line
- Gift of CIGNA Museum and Art Collection
- Physical Description
- sheet brass (overall material)
- leather (part: shaft material)
- Measurements
- overall: 18 1/2 in x 6 3/4 in; 46.99 cm x 17.145 cm
- Object Name
- trumpet, speaking
