Brass Fireman s Helmet with Original Plaque of Origin in France, circa 1900

Leather fireman's parade belt with the word "LIBERTY in white on a red ground, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, circa 1900 This fireman's parade belt is of the type produced during the latter part of the 19th century, between roughly 1870 and 1900. Made of leather, the body of the belt is black. In the center is a recessed window, with a fancifully scalloped edge, behind which a red leather panel, upon which the word "Liberty" appears in raised, white letters. There is a white binding, it's edge trimmed with pinking shears to create a decorative border. The metal buckle fits into an opposing leather strap, small in scale and riveted beneath the outer one. The words that appear on fireman's parade belts were customized, sometimes displaying the title of the wearer (i.e., "chief" or "clerk"), sometimes the name of the city or town, and sometimes the name of the station, as-is the case in this instance. Attributed to Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania (Columbia County), I acquired it about 25 miles southwest, in adjacent Union County. Bloomsburg's first fire house, Friendship Fire Company, was established in 1868, shortly following the Civil War. Like most volunteer departments of that time, it was staffed by returning Union soldiers who volunteered, enjoying the comradery. Three more would follow, including Rescue Hose & Ladder (1870), Winona (1881), and Liberty Fire Company (1900). In the early 1990's the process was begun to modernize and consolidate all four stations into one. Liberty's fire house still stands on the 100 block of Leonard Street. Probably made in the year the Liberty Fire Company was established, for related parades and festivities, the great thing about this belt is the combination of the wonderful, early, painted surface and the terrific verbiage. While words such as "Clerk," "Bloomsburg," or "Rescue" would have limited appeal, the word "Liberty" opens the playing field to a nation-wide audience. Fire memorabilia...

ABOUT Red wool fireman’s bib shirt marked “B.F.D.” across the chest (Benicia CA Fire Department) and heavy-duty metal buttons stamped with "FD". CREAT...

Antique travel microscope in unrestored found condition. The brass should be polished and the glasses cleaned. All parts appear to be complete, no guarantee, see photos.

Stunning antique French church candlestick, beautifully decorated with charming lilies, grapes and ears of corn. It can hold 5 candles. Circa 1900 These beautiful candelabra are als...

This exquisite Art Deco vanity case, crafted in France around 1920, is a remarkable example of early 20th-century luxury design. Made of silver with enamel, Chinese lacquer, and diam...

Wonderful set of 6 vintage maps. Random American states including Maine, Utah, New Hampshire, Nevada, Vermont and New Mexico. Monochrome with red color outline. Published by Rand,...

Antique print titled 'Hechtfang im Winter'. Original antique print of ice fishing. Published circa 1900. Artists and Engravers: Anonymous. Condition:...

Fabulous map of California Original color Engraved and printed by the George F. Cram Company, Indianapolis. Published, circa 1900 Unframed Free shipping.

Fabulous map of Oklahoma Original color Engraved and printed by the George F. Cram Company, Indianapolis. Published, circa 1900 Unframed Repair to...

Fabulous map of Massachusetts In 2 sheets. They can be joined but I have not done it Original color Engraved and printed by the George F. Cram ...