Model: horse-drawn fire pumper

1875

Place madePhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, North America

Wood, metal, textile, glass

Overall: 27 1/2 x 16 3/4 x 59 1/2 in. ( 69.8 x 42.5 x 151.1 cm )

Gift of Mr. Enoch G. Megrue

1941.407

This fire engine model was presented to Enoch G. Megrue upon his retirement as second Fire Chief of the Cincinnati Fire Department, 1857-1878.

DescriptionPresentation model of a fire pumper; brass and metal tank attached to a piston pumping mechanism in the center; pumping mechanism topped by a metal female figure and a glass and brass lantern with the number "3" etched on three sides; metal basket attached to the base of the tank and filled with wooden lumps of coal (101 pieces) and bundles of sticks (11 bundles); all on a red and yellow painted, four wheeled carriage with a harness and driver's seat in the front; two textile hoses on each side of the tank; metal plaque applied to the front of the pumping mechanism engraved, "CINCINNATI, OHIO NOVEMBER, 1875/ PRESENTED/ TO/ ENOCH G. MEGRUE, ESQ./ As a testimonial of respect for/ his efficiency as CHIEF of/ CINCINNATI FIRE DEPARTMENT." in script, roman and gothic letters; maker's name engraved on a second plaque.

Markingsengraved: on a plaque on the pumping mechanism: "Cincinnati, Ohio, Mov. 5, 1875/Presented to Enoch G. Megrue, Esq./as a Testimonial of regard for/his efficiency as Chief of/Cincinnati Fire department." engraved: on a plaque on the carriage seat: "Harry D. Cress/ Builder/ Philada." in script etched: on the lantern on three sides: "3"

ClassificationsFIRE FIGHTING TOOLS & EQUIPMENT