Fireman's Uniform Belt

PeriodCirca 1887 - 1890

Place MadeNew York or New Jersey, U.S.A.

MediumLeather, steel

Dimensions2.38 × 50.5 in. (6 × 128.3 cm)

ClassificationsAdvertising, Business & Ornamental Artifacts

Credit LineGift of Theodore A. Krieg, 1981

Object number1981.9.1

DescriptionA fireman's uniform belt, consisting of sturdy black leather with buff yellow leather facings and a steel buckle fastening. The belt's keep strap includes a shield-shaped cutout, edged with black stitching, and a large "1" with a crossed hook and ladder behind. A large scrolled cutout along the back of the belt frames bold letters "M A T A W A N," in yellow leather against the black leather. The edges of the belt are sewn with contrasting white stitching.
NotesThis belt was owned and worn by Frederick A. Krieg. Born in Grunstadt, Germany on 29 February 1852, Krieg emigrated to the United States as a child. He lived in New York City, where he met and married Elizabeth Schultz (1860 - 1931). The couple had ten children. The Krieg family moved to Matawan in 1887, first renting and then later buying a house on Jackson Street. The home was located just a walk away from the Matawan Firehouse where Krieg volunteered. He worked at a local window shade factory on Church Street. In March of 1892, the Kriegs moved back to New York, settling in Woodhaven, Queens County. Frederick Krieg died at the age of 87 on 8 October 1939.

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