1898 UNION 13 FIREFIGHTER HAT READING PA

C. Early 1900s. Union Fire Company #13 from Reading PA. W.M.H. Horstmann & Sons “Union No. 13” Fireman’s Helmet. Molded light composition fireman’s helmet by W.M.H. Horstmann & Sons, Philadelphia, retaining the maker’s paper label inside the crown. Horstmann & Sons made limited fire fighting helmets making this a rare example. Horstmann & Sons was also famous for their manufacturing of police uniforms and military uniforms dating back to the Civil War. Features a wide rear brim, ribbed crown, cream- and gold-painted finish, metal eagle-form frontpiece holder, and a stitched leather shield lettered “UNION” above “13,” with “S B” below. Rear brim is painted “1898” in red and gold. Interior retains its leather sweatband. Condition is good overall for age with extensive paint loss, flaking, crazing, scratching, rubbing, discoloration, and general surface wear. Leather shield exhibits drying, cracking, and wear. Interior paper label exhibits losses and deterioration.

Condition: (Very Good - Excellent).

Item Dimensions: 11" x 15" x 9 - 1/2".