This antique and very genuine Victorian "Merryweather" type ( patterned 1868) brass fireman's helmet has authentic Christchurch provenance. It was used by a fire brigade member of the Borthwicks' Freezing Works when they attended the tragic Ballantynes' department store fire of 18th November 1947, when 41, predominantly young women, perished.

See attached photos and letter.

The helmet is in great overall condition with minor wear and small dents commensurate with its age. Most of the internal leather lining has gone, the chin strap is complete and intact.

Original (Authentic) brass helmets can be distinguished from reproductions by the use of brass "cheesehead" screws used to mount the comb, (not the roundhead ones found on modern repros)

I've had it for a number of years now and it's time to pass it on, hopefully to a museum.

It would make a great gift for the person who has not quite got everything.

KEY WORDS: Fire Brigade. Museum. Historic. Old. Collector.