Long Branch Fire Department Badge

Maker Whitehead and Hoag Company

Period1930

Place OwnedLong Branch, New Jersey

MediumCelluloid, silk

DimensionsPin Diameter: 1.25 in. (3.2 cm)
Ribbons: 2.75 × 0.75 in. (7 × 1.9 cm)

InscribedStamped on back of button, "The Whitehead & Hoag Co. / Buttons Badges Novelties and Signs / Newark, N.J."

ClassificationsBadges, Buttons, Medals, & Ribbons

Credit LineGift of Esther S. Keller, 1989

Object number1989.15.31

DescriptionA small circular pin with a light blueish back, featuring an emblem of a fireman's profile and gear in front of a blaze, and the words "LONG BRANCH / FIRE DEPT." printed in dark blue along the top and bottom of the border. Two silk ribbons hang from the pin, each with gold lettering. The green ribbon reads "STATE FIREMEN'S / PARADE," and the tan one "LONG BRANCH, N.J. / AUG. 23, 1930."
NotesRain postponed, but didn't cancel, the New Jersey State Fireman's Parade at the end of August in 1930. a downpour threatened to ruin the anticipated event, but the clouds moved off and more than 4,300 firemen stepped off at two o'clock in the afternoon. More than six miles of firemen, fire trucks, and equipment - including some horse-drawn 19th century fire wagons - made their way to Ocean Avenue. Members of the Long Branch Fire Department sported these colorful beribboned badges on their uniforms. After the parade, viewers enjoyed contests, including a hose laying contest ultimately won by the little Wanamassa Fire Department. The day ended with fireworks over the beach.

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