fire department Logos and Brands

City and county fire departments, from New York’s FDNY to volunteer brigades in rural areas, form the basis of the Fire Department section. Each unit has its own emblem, dating back to the 19th century when fire brigades were formed as local brotherhoods. Maltese crosses, axes, ladders, helmets, and flames make up a stable visual vocabulary passed down from generation to generation of firefighters. The station number, city name, and year of establishment are inscribed on the emblem, making it a mini-chronicle of the unit. An analysis of fire department logos allows us to trace how the symbols of courage and readiness to rescue people are preserved in the heraldic traditions of services working on the front lines of emergencies.