Black History
1885 Handcolored Print “The Darktown Fire Brigade...”
1885-Dated, Handcolored Print, “The Darktown Fire Brigade - The Last Shake. ‘We’s won de Mug but we’s smashed de ole machine.’”, by Currier & Ives, Choice Near Mint.
This colorful, Handcolored Print measures 14.5” x 11.75” (by sight), framed to an overall size of 20.5” x 17.5”. Print depicts a group of Black firemen flailing around a wrecked pumper wagon while onlookers run for cover. As in other Darktown Series prints by Currier & Ives, this print stereotypes African Americans. Not examined out of frame.
Prints such as the Darktown Series helped circulate images promoting racial and ethnic stereotyping of the 19th century. Currier & Ives printed what the public wanted and capitalized on racism and xenophobia of the era. There are other series of Currier & Ives prints ridiculing the Irish, the Italians, and Roman Catholics.