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Item SpecificsTheme: Firefighting & Rescue
Product Type: Badges, Medals & Ribbons
Year Circa 1895–1910 (Based on manufacture patent dates)
Maker: The Whitehead & Hoag Co. (Newark, N.J.)Country of Manufacture: United StatesItem DescriptionAntique Fire Department "In Memoriam" Reversible Silk Ribbon Badge – Hutchinson, Minnesota Hose Co. No. 2
Up for sale is a highly collectible, authentic turn-of-the-century volunteer fire department ribbon badge manufactured by the legendary Whitehead & Hoag Co. of Newark, New Jersey. This historic piece belongs to Hose Co. No. 2 out of Hutchinson, Minnesota.This is a functional dual-sided/reversible mourning ribbon designed to be worn at community events on the bright side, and inverted to the black side during funeral processions or memorial services.Side 1 (Parade/Presentation): Features a patriotic cream silk top section with an embossed silver eagle, crossed American flags, and a star burst. The lower section features a bold tricolor silk field (red, cream, blue) with silver-gilt foil lettering reading "Hutchinson Fire Dep't, Hose Co. No. 2, Hutchinson, Minn." finished with a gold metallic fringe border.Side 2 (In Memoriam / Mourning): Features a solid black silk field with bold silver foil graphics reading "In Memoriam" above an intricate illustration of an early horse-drawn steam fire engine apparatus.Manufacturer Markings: The reverse side reveals the original paper backing label detailing the company name and multiple 1892, 1893, and 1894 patent dates for their ribbon and badge components.Dimensions:Approximately 9” in total length by 2.5” in width (including the metallic bullion trim fringe).Condition:Good antique condition for its age (over 115+ years old). The fabric retains sharp colors, clean lettering, and strong visual clarity. Light age-appropriate surface wear, minor edge fraying, and tarnish to the metallic accents are present. The top pinback mechanism is absent, but the silk body and back advertising label remain remarkably intact. Please review all high-resolution photos carefully to verify condition before purchasing.
Lot #(Y213)
