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LCC-LFB Islington fire station stables -- Kruger
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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
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Media ID 7643921
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library
Action Harness Islington Kruger Quick Ready Release Stables Stations Straw Firefighting Upper
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the essence of firefighting in London at the turn of the 20th century, with a focus on Islington Fire Station's stables and their beloved white horse, Kruger. Established in 1899, the London Fire Brigade's Islington station was one of many that relied on horse-drawn engines for firefighting. Although motorised engines were gradually being introduced into the service from the early 1900s, horses remained a crucial part of the firefighting team until 1921. In this image, Kruger, the station's duty horse, is shown ready for action. His sleek white coat gleams in the light, and his ears prick forward as he wears the quick-release harness developed for fire brigade use. Designed to save valuable time, this harness ensured that the horses could be hitched to the engines without delay. Coachmen, responsible for driving the horse-drawn engines and caring for the horses at the scene of a fire, were designated as firemen. The stables, either within or adjacent to the engine room, provided essential shelter for the horses. The straw-filled stalls offered comfort and protection, ensuring the horses were well-prepared for their critical role in the firefighting process. Islington Fire Station's stables, located on Upper Street, were an integral part of the station's layout. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of firefighting in London, showcasing the vital role that horses played in the service and the close relationship between the animals and their human handlers.
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