Gorgeous silver-plated ceremonial fireman’s trumpet presented to a Leadville fire chief, measuring 23.5″ tall with a 9″ diameter bell, engraved on one side of the bell, “Awarded to the Humphrey Hose by the Fun on the Bristol Co., Leadville, Colo., Feb. 15th 1882,” and on the other side, “Presented to Asst Chief L. A. Scholes by the H. H. Co. N. 2, May 24th 1882.” The horn features ornate designs on the sides and is engraved with depictions of a fire wagon, hoses, ladders, and firefighters’ helmets. It retains its original golden rope with tassels. In very good to fine condition.
“Fun on the Bristol” was a troupe in town to perform at the Tabor Opera House, and this trumpet was initially awarded to the Humphrey Hose firemen company for selling a large number of tickets for their engagements; the trumpet presentation is mentioned in the Leadville Daily Herald issue of February 16, 1882. Also includes a period tintype in its original 3.25 x 3.75 case depicting a fireman in a three-quarter-length pose, holding a similar looking fireman’s trumpet against his hip.