Virginia Metalcrafters Vintage Cast Iron Fire Mark with Fireman “Sounding the Alarm”

RESCUE HERO / FIREMAN "SOUNDING THE ALARM" BLOWING BUGLE CARRYING TORCH CAST IRON VIRGINIA METALCRAFTERS FIRE MARK, PLAQUE, SIGN Antique / Vintage heavy cast iron hand casted and hand painted fire insurance / assurance markerMeasures 9" wide  and 11 1/2" TallWeight approximately 5 poundsVM 22-6 marked on back for Virginia MetalcraftersIn the 18th Century, some insurance companies issued plaques like this one offered, known as "fire marks," mounted on the front of homes for homeowners to show their property were insured against fire damage.  This reproduction vintage Virginia Metalcrafters Cast Iron Fire Mark / Plate / Plaque / Sign.  Heavy cast iron with a painted relief finish featuring a fireman blowing a horn "FIRE" and carrying a torch "Sounding the Alarm. The back has the Virginia Metalcrafters logo and the numbers 22-6.   A hole at the top and bottom for prominently displaying on your home.  Sorry, but screws not included.  Very nice condition.  Unsure of proper age, but thinking likely cast in the 70's?  This would be perfect addition for any firefighter or rescue memorabilia collection. For over 125 years, Virginia Metelcrafters, founded in 1895, evolved into an undisputed leader in the design and manufacturing of fine hand cast, hand finished brass and iron giftware items. Virginia Metalcrafters started as a stove manufacturer, early on making, of all things, the Hotpoint brand. Begun by William J. Loth as the Waynesboro Stove Company, Waynesboro, Virginia VA, it was born at a time when there were many regional iron foundries and stove makers. As electric appliances took over, most of these companies shut down, unable to adapt. However, Virginia Metalcrafters figured out a way to survive. In 1936, it became Virginia Metalcrafters, selling unique household items to that new, sensational American tourist attraction, Colonial Williamsburg. The foundry / factory complex closed in 2006 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. It is now a multi-use facility known as Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace and Historic District.

Condition

Used (normal wear)

Type

Fire Mark Plaque