Until the 19th century there were no town fire services in the UK. Insurance companies had their own fire engines and firemen. The world's first municipal fire service was set up in Edinburgh after the Great Fire of in 1824 destroyed much of the city's Old Town.Before that people paid insurance companies and displayed their 'certificates' in the form of plaques on the front of their building. Many had dates to demonstrate that the year's premium had been paid. No up-to-date plaque, no fire fighting!
Once town brigades were established the insurance companies tended to leave the badges in place as adverts. Such plaques can still be seen on the front of old buildings. Some even have the name of companies that have survived to the present day.
The plaque in the photo is at Blists Hill Victorian town - part of the Ironbridge Gorge group.
What a lovely history lesson, I can't imagine living in those times. Nice of you to share!
ReplyDeleteThese plaques are really interesting aren't they? There are a good number in London and I suspect there may be some in Sheffield too. Must ask my husband as he takes lots of photos and may have come across some.
ReplyDeleteI love the fire plaques, there are some really elaborate and interesting ones. We had quite a few in the collections of one of the museums I worked for and people were always fascinated with them:)
ReplyDeleteI like this idea! :)
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