Those images of Fire appliances are of interest to me because one of 'mine' was a volunteer Fireman at Aston.
In 1879, after attending a fire in Lichfield Road, he was aboard the appliance, returning to the Station, when he fell from the vehicle fracturing his skull and died leaving a Widow and 5 children. This was in the days when Birmingham and Aston were separate authorities.
I can't now remember whether it was because he was a Volunteer, or because they were 'returning from the fire' (probably the latter) but his widow was not entitled to any 'benefits' [from his Death] that would normally be provided.
Civic dignataries appealed for donations for the benefit of the family and the Birmingham Daily Post acted as a conduit for the monies raised.
On Monday 22 Dec, at Aston Lower Grounds, a fundraising event was held where "Costume Skating, Pedestal Skating by Professor Dixon and great novelties in the art of Rink Skating [were] Introduced." Admission was 6d. With the monies raised his Widow opened a Provisions shop at 206 Wheeler Street.
I believe the Masonic Order may have also had some involvement with the family following the accident as one of his sons turns up in Newfoundland where he established the St. John's Ambulance in........St. John's, and is reported as assisting with the treatment of the survivors from the Grand Banks Disaster.
He is buried in the Masonic Section, Forest Road Anglican Cemetary, St. John's.