Two Fireman's Porcelain Occupational Shaving Mugs

Late 19th/Early 20th Century

comprising an example identified J. A. Baker in gilt lettering and depicting a steam fire pumper against a blue wrap, and an example identified Wm. B. Peake in gilt lettering and depicting a fire wagon marked Wm. Penn / No. 18.
undersides unmarked.
Height of larger 3 7/8 inches.

The William Penn Hose Company No. 18 was organized on February 3, 1830, in Kensington, Philadelphia. The firm operated exclusively as a hose company until 1864 when it acquired a steam fire engine and began to serve as a steam fire engine company. The company's service in this capacity continued until 1871 when the city of Philadelphia established a paid fire department.

U.S. Federal Census returns from 1920 identify a William Peake (circa 1875-1956) working as a fireman in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was born in England and immigrated to the United States with his wife, Mary, in 1892. According to early census records, Peake worked first as a laborer before transitioning to a career as a fireman between 1910 and 1920.