Firefighting presentation cane inscribed " Chief W. W. Templin from Nevada Fire Dept. / Dec. 25 1886", lower edge also marked R.F. S. & Co. (R. F. Simmons Company, Attleboro, MA). Ornate repousse gold-plated handle and wooden shaft, 34-1/2"L overall. Late 19th century. Note: THE INSURANCE YEARBOOK, Vol. 15, published by Spectator Company in 1890 includes a listing related to the fire department in Nevada (Vernon County), Missouri reading in part " Nevada, Vernon Co., population 12,000. Fire Department – 1 hook and ladder truck, 2 hose carriages; hose 1500 ft.; value of fire department equipment $4500; total membership 62, volunteer; bell alarm. Chief engineer, W. W. Templin." Provenance: a Mississippi estate. Condition: Repaired break to upper section of wood, lower tip cut to accommodate a rubber tip.