Firefighter - Fire chute demonstration 1892 - Side by Side
by Mike Savad
Title
Firefighter - Fire chute demonstration 1892 - Side by Side
Artist
Mike Savad
Medium
Photograph - Hand Colored Photo
Description
Hand colored photo from 1892
Original title: Man sliding down chute from 3rd story of Agricultural Hall and horse drawn fire wagon
Photographer: Unknown
Location: East & Leavitt St., Hingham, MA
The site of today's public library at the intersection of East and Leavitt Streets in Hingham was once home to the historic Agricultural Hall, a stately three-story building completed in 1867 with a distinctive mansard roof and cupola. Originally built for Hingham's Agricultural and Horticultural Society, the hall was a hub of community activity, hosting the Hingham Fair and baseball games on the grounds behind it. At this time of year, the place must have been bustling with excitement. Join us this week as we delve into the story of this landmark, the Society it served, and the lasting legacy it left behind.
The Hingham volunteer fire department, established in 1791, stands as one of the earliest in the United States. Created to protect the town with organized fire services, it began with "hand tubs", manually pulled apparatuses that required bucket brigades for water supply. By 1802, the town formalized its fire protection by setting up dedicated firehouses funded and operated by private citizens. For a closer look at Hingham's firefighting history and its evolving equipment, visit the Bare Cove Fire Museum, where artifacts and exhibits offer a window into New England's firefighting heritage.
Coloring notes:
This is a building that is long gone, there was no mention of color, no postcards, it was just a local building. I wanted an understated look, so mostly went with green. The fire wagon, while their local museum did have many old engines, they didn't have this one. I assume it was mostly red, with fancy pinstripes. My guess is the old wagon rotted away and the horse probably became glue.
I do have questions about a chute like this, like if they were really overweight, would it support them and would they get stuck?
Uploaded
November 12th, 2024
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