Images Dated 6th December 2011

LCC-LFB Islington fire station stables

Islington's first fire station opened in 1860 in Florence Street. The station pictured here was located in Upper Street, and opened in 1899. Horses would remain in use in the London Fire Brigade until 1921, although motorised fire engine were being introduced into the service in increasing numbers from the early 1900s. Coachmen were designated firemen responsible for driving the horse drawn engines, and the horses were stabled at the fire station in stalls within or adjacent to the engine room

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library

LCC-LFB Islington fire station stables -- Kruger

Islington fire station stables, Upper Street, showing a white horse named Kruger. The station opened in 1899. Horses would remain in use in the London Fire Brigade until 1921, although motorised fire engines were being introduced into the service in increasing numbers from the early 1900s. Kruger is shown ready for action, wearing the quick release harness developed for fire brigade use so as not to delay the turnout of the engines. Coachmen were designated firemen responsible for driving the horse drawn engines and caring for the horses at the scene of a fire. Station stalls were either within or adjacent to the engine room for the duty horses. The stables formed part of the general station layout

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library