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The History of Fire Helmet Fronts

Since its creation in 1836 in America, the fire helmet has undergone many changes to incorporate safety components. Changes made for unit identification through the use of fire helmet fronts have also developed. A fire helmet front is a large badge-like item identifying the unit to which a firefighter belongs.

  1. The First Fire Helmet

    • According to MSA, a company that produces firefighting gear, the first American helmet was created in 1836 in New York City by H.T. Gratacap, a volunteer fireman and transit luggage maker. Gratacap realized the need for head protection for firefighters. Using his knowledge of durable leather materials for luggage, he developed the first firefighter helmet.

    The First Evolution

    • Shortly after the development of the first helmet, two brothers with the last name of Cairns saw a need for identification on the helmets. The Cairns brothers were in the metal badge, insignia and button business in New York City. They developed a front identification piece and holder for the fire helmets.

    The Merger

    • The Cairns brothers collaborated with Gratacap to manufacture durable leather helmets with front piece identification badges. This collaboration continued until the 1850s, when Gratacap retired. After Gratacap's retirement, the Cairns brothers continued to develop not only the fire helmet and front piece, but also other firefighting equipment. The Cairns brothers formed their own company, Cairns & Brother Inc.

    Fire Helmet Safety Changes

    • The 1920s were a time of development for fire helmets and fronts as aluminum was introduced as the main component of the helmet. By the late 1940s and early 1950s, a crash helmet type structure was added to the helmet for increased head safety.

    Changing the Front Piece

    • Over the years, helmets and front pieces continued to change. By May of 1997, Cairns & Brother Inc. had created more than 27 million possible combinations for a front piece of a fire helmet. Colors, shapes, textures, and identification style options were endless. The old Cairns carved brass eagle front holder piece was also reintroduced to hold the new front piece designs.

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