Milford Fire Department Parade Float [Photograph, 1890s?]
Descriptive Object
Identifier:
OBJ.O.1989.187
Description
A sepia photograph taken approximately in the 1890s. It is titled "Milford Fire Department," but appears to be of a wooden, horse-drawn fire wagon decorated to serve as a Fourth of July parade float. The wagon, on which is painted partially-obscured initials which likely read M.F.D. (for Milford Fire Department) and "Hose I," has been draped in starry fabric bunting along its sides and down the length of a fire ladder that extends off the back. Nine children, apparently boys, dressed in near-identical white shirts and boat hats are riding the wagon, posed facing the camera. Two adults, apparently men, in dark uniforms are posed at the front of the wagon, where reins and part of a harness lead off out of shot. That this is a Fourth of July parade is inferred by the children's summer clothing, leaves on the visible trees, the stars on the bunting, and multiple miniature American flags also decorating the wagon/float. Space on the back of the photograph to write and send a postcard has been left blank.