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 by Peter Bugel of the Jackson Engine Company of New York, New York during the 19th century. The trumpet has two raised bands and two rings along the trumpet’s shaft. There is an engraving in the side that reads “Peter Bugel” and the rim of the bell is engraved “Jackson Co. 24.” The Jackson Engine Company was originally organized in 1798 and was reorganized twice before going out of service in 1865.
- 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
- brass (overall material)
- tin (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 19 1/2 in x 8 1/2 in; 49.53 cm x 21.59 cm
- Object Name
- trumpet, speaking
