Leatherhead (helmet)

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A Leatherhead Helmet.

The leatherhead, is a term used for an old style leather helmet used by some firefighters in the US and Canada. Leatherhead is also slang for a firefighter who uses the leather helmet. The Leather Helmet is also an international symbol of firefighters from the early years of firefighting. Although not a required component of the helmet, some firefighters weear a brass eagle adornment on the top of the helmet that secures a leather shield to the front of the helmet.

[edit] Eagle

The eagle has no particular significance and serves no practical purpose. Its origins can be traced to around 1825 when an unknown sculptor created a commemorative figure for the grave of a volunteer fireman. Firefighters were not wearing eagles prior to this. But soon after the firemen saw it, they thought it was a splendid idea and it was widely adopted. It has remained on firemen's helmets ever since, in spite of the fact that it has proved frequently to be a dangerous and expensive ornament.

It sticks up in the air, which causes it to catch its beak on window sashes, telephone wires and other obstacles. It frequently becomes dented, bent, and knocked off. The eagle ornament is frequently criticized and it is said that it would be cheaper and safer to do away with the eagle. Many fire departments have already replaced the eagle and leather helmet with more modern plastic and composite helmets that have no eagle device. However, many firefighters still retain the old style leather helmet and eagle as a matter of tradition.