SELECTIONS from the American Museum of Photography

SELECTIONS from the American Museum of Photography

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Edward T. Billings (Racine, Wisconsin 1852–circa 1930)

Women with Fire Wagon

Albumen print on cabinet card mount (overall size 4.25 x 6.5 inches) circa 1885

 

Highly unusual and a bit mystifying: just who were these ladies? What occasion does this photograph commemorate?

The wagon appears to have a foot-operated bell and prominently carries a broom and a length of rope. It seems to be decorated for a parade. The subjects all wear fire helmets and appear to be dressed in matching outfits. The woman in the center of the group has a different frontpiece on her helmet and carries a speaking trumpet, a symbol of rank. Is she the leader of a women’s fire brigade? Or is this group some sort of ladies’ auxiliary? Either way, an intriguing image.

 

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