Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Museums > London Fire Brigade Museum
LCC-MFB Escape cart at Southwark HQ
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
LCC-MFB Escape cart at Southwark HQ
Escape cart in the yard of Southwark HQ. Prior to this time, the 50 foot wheeled escape ladders were pushed to fires. Around 1890 the Chief Officer, Captain Wells, introduced the horse drawn escape cart and reorganised the London brigade so that at any time of day or night a horsed escape, with a properly trained crew, would be immediately ready to answer a call for help
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7641367
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library
Crew Crews Drawn Escape Foot Horsed Ladder Ladders Ready Southwark Wheeled Yard Firefighter Firefighters Firefighting Fireman Firemen
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Farm
> Horses
> Related Images
> Animals
> Mammals
> Horse
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> Southwark
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Fire Brigade
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Museums
> London Fire Brigade Museum
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> London Fire Brigade
> Popular Themes
> Firefighters
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the LCC-MFB Escape Cart parked in the yard of Southwark Headquarters, a testament to the innovative firefighting methods introduced by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) around 1890. Prior to this time, firefighters relied on 50-foot wheeled escape ladders, which had to be physically pushed to the scene of a fire. However, under the leadership of Chief Officer Captain Wells, the brigade underwent a significant reorganization. The introduction of the horse-drawn escape cart marked a major improvement in the fire service's ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies. With a properly trained crew always ready and immediately available, the horsed escape cart was a game-changer in the Edwardian era. The cart, which is believed to date from around 1905, features a ladder that could be raised to a height of 60 feet, providing a vital means of escape for those trapped in burning buildings. The London Fire Brigade's commitment to advancing firefighting technology and techniques is evident in this image. The horses, who were an essential part of the fire service at the time, are calmly tethered, ready for action. The firemen, dressed in their distinctive uniforms, stand nearby, poised to spring into action at a moment's notice. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the bravery and dedication of the firefighters who risked their lives to protect the people of London during the early 20th century. The London Fire Brigade Museum houses an extensive collection of historical firefighting equipment, including this horse-drawn escape cart. A visit to the museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about the rich history of firefighting in London and the innovative methods that have been developed over the years to keep the city safe from fire.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.