Fire insurance mark

[2] Some period specimens remain on historical buildings in the older areas of Britain's and America's cities and larger towns.

The early fire marks of Benjamin Franklin's time can still be seen on some Philadelphia buildings as well as in other older American cities.

[3] Fire insurance companies began operating in the Australian colonies in the early part of the 19th century.

A rare and original plaque from the 1840s is on display at the historic Darling House, The Rocks, the current property having been constructed in this colonial precinct 1842.

At least one company, the Norwich Union, issued "fire marks" printed on calico for use in rural areas.

They were to be fixed on hay ricks, corn stacks and shearing sheds on the theory that they would indicate to arsonists that the owner was insured and would not be out of pocket should the property be destroyed by fire.