Metropolitan Fire Brigade Collection

Captain Eyre Massey Shaw
3585769 Captain Eyre Massey Shaw; (add.info.: Illustration depicting Captain Eyre Massey Shaw (1830-1908) the Superintendent of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade and the London Fire Engine Establishment

A floating fire engine used on the River Thames
5310145 A floating fire engine used on the River Thames; (add.info.: Engraving depicting a floating fire engine used on the River Thames. Dated 19th century.); Universal History Archive/UIG

The Presentation to Sir Eyre Massey Shaw, on the Occasion of his Retirement, by the... 1891. Creator: Unknown
The Presentation to Sir Eyre Massey Shaw, on the Occasion of his Retirement, by the Officers and Men of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, 1891. From "The Graphic

The Metropolitan Fire Brigade; Twenty five seconds after the Ringing of the Bell, 1888. Creator: Unknown
The Metropolitan Fire Brigade; Twenty five seconds after the Ringing of the Bell, 1888. From, The Graphic. An Illustrated Weekly Newspaper Volume 38. July to December, 1888

The Annual Display of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, 18 October (litho)
1601162 The Annual Display of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, 18 October (litho) by Stewart, Allan (1865-1951); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Annual Display of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade)

Captain Eyre Massey Shaw, CB, Retiring Chief Officer of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (engraving)
1591676 Captain Eyre Massey Shaw, CB, Retiring Chief Officer of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Captain Eyre Massey Shaw)

Headquarters of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (b / w photo)
3092052 Headquarters of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (b/w photo) by English Photographer, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Headquarters of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade)

The Presentation to Sir Eyre Massey Shaw, on the Occasion of his Retirement
1036490 The Presentation to Sir Eyre Massey Shaw, on the Occasion of his Retirement, by the Officers and Men of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (engraving) by English School

Commander Lionel Wells, RN, Chief Officer of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (engraving)
1605951 Commander Lionel Wells, RN, Chief Officer of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Commander Lionel Wells, RN)

The Metropolitan Fire Brigade (engraving)
1041774 The Metropolitan Fire Brigade (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Metropolitan Fire Brigade)

The Metropolitan Fire Brigade at Work, connecting the Hose (engraving)
1100382 The Metropolitan Fire Brigade at Work, connecting the Hose (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Metropolitan Fire Brigade at Work)

The London Fire Brigade at Practice on the Thames Embankment (engraving)
1588591 The London Fire Brigade at Practice on the Thames Embankment (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

Metropolitan Fire Brigade, 1873
View showing the different stages of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade scaling ladder drill, 1873

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The Metropolitan Fire Brigade has been a symbol of bravery and heroism in London for over a century. Established in 1866, this esteemed organization has played a vital role in protecting the city from devastating fires. In an intriguing photograph titled "Twenty five seconds after the Ringing of the Bell, 1888, " we catch a glimpse of the swift response by these fearless firefighters. With determination etched on their faces, they rush towards danger, ready to battle against raging flames and save lives. Every year, the brigade showcases their skills and expertise during the Annual Display. On October 18th, crowds gather to witness their awe-inspiring drills and demonstrations. A lithograph capturing this event transports us back to that momentous day when spectators marveled at their precision and courage. Captain Eyre Massey Shaw stands as an iconic figure within the Metropolitan Fire Brigade's history. As its retiring Chief Officer, his engraving immortalizes his invaluable contributions to fire safety in London. The presentation made by officers and men upon his retirement further highlights Sir Eyre Massey Shaw's remarkable legacy. Headquarters serve as both a sanctuary for these brave individuals and a hub for strategic operations. In a black-and-white photo showcasing its grandeur, we see where plans are devised before each daring rescue mission or firefighting operation takes place. However noble their cause may be, tragedy sometimes strikes within their ranks. An engraving depicting the Funeral of One of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade reminds us that even heroes are not invincible – they too face risks while safeguarding others' lives. Commander Lionel Wells assumes leadership following Captain Shaw's retirement; another engraving captures him with unwavering resolve etched across his countenance. Under Commander Wells' guidance, this illustrious institution continues its tireless efforts to protect Londoners from harm. Engravings portraying firefighters connecting hoses or battling infernos showcase just how arduous their work can be.