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Delaware Company Cape

unknown

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.

Date

1840-1850

Type

cape, fire uniform

Medium

oil cloth (overall material)

Department

NMAH

Institution

National Museum of American History

Object number

nmah_1326332

Credit

Gift of CIGNA Museum and Art Collection