How did enthusiasts come to be called buffs, as in sports buffs, opera buffs, and computer buffs?

sjhodges825

From the buff-colored coats once worn by New York City volunteer firemen - who became known as fire buffs. http://www.marshalladulteducation.org/announcements/1_5_07.htm Feb 07 07, 8:59 AM

zbeckabee

"...allegedly derives from New York volunteer firemen of the early part of last century. They wore buff-coats as a uniform, or heavy buffalo robes as winter wear, and so were known as buffs. Their enthusiasm in rushing to fires became a byword and so a permanent part of the language." http://www.worldwidewords.org/topicalwords/tw-buf1.htm Feb 07 07, 10:46 AM

Baloo55th

Also confirmed by The Times English Dictionary, which I wasn't expecting. Sounds too much like folk etymology, but there you are.... Feb 07 07, 3:45 PM