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MFB fire float and tug with river firemen
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MFB fire float and tug with river firemen
A Metropolitan Fire Brigade fire float and tug with river firemen. These composite craft were introduced in 1877 by Captain Eyre Massey Shaw, Chief Fire Officer of the MFB. They were replaced by fireboats from around 1900
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Media ID 7638253
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library
1877 Chief Composite Craft Eyre Fireboat Fireboats Float Massey Metropolitan Shaw Vehicles Firefighter Firefighters Firefighting Fireman Firemen
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In this evocative photograph, a Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) fire float and tug gracefully navigate the serene waters of the River Thames. Introduced in 1877 by the visionary Captain Eyre Massey Shaw, Chief Fire Officer of the MFB, these composite craft represented a significant innovation in firefighting technology. The fire float, a flat-bottomed vessel, is expertly maneuvered by the team of river firemen, who stand at the ready with hoses and other essential equipment. The tug, a powerful engine attached to the float, propels the combined craft through the water. The firemen, dressed in their iconic Victorian-era uniforms, display a sense of focus and determination as they prepare to tackle any fire emergency that may arise. These composite craft, a unique blend of boat and vehicle, were an essential part of the MFB's arsenal during the late 1800s. They allowed the fire brigade to reach fires situated on the river more efficiently than ever before. The Thames, a major transportation hub in London, was home to numerous industries and commercial ventures, making the presence of the MFB's fire floats and tugs all the more crucial. Captain Shaw's introduction of these composite craft marked a turning point in the history of firefighting. They paved the way for the development of more advanced fireboats, which eventually replaced them around the turn of the century. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the dedication and innovation of the MFB's firefighters during the Victorian era.
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