The Human Torch, also known as Jim Hammond (originally, Hamond), is a fictional superhero appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. He first appeared in Marvel Comics #1 (Oct.1939), published by Marvel's predecessor, Timely Comics. The "Human" Torch was actually an android created by scientist Phineas Horton. He possessed the ability to surround himself with fire and control flames. In his earliest appearances, he was portrayed as a science fiction monstrosity, but quickly became a hero and adopted a secret identity as a police officer for the New York City Police Department. The Human Torch was one of Timely Comics' three signature characters, along with Captain America and Namor the Sub-Mariner. Like many superheroes, the Human Torch fell into obscurity by the 1950s. In 1961, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby renovated his name and powers into a new character, Johnny Storm, a member of the Fantastic Four (who was actually human-mutate). Unlike Captain America and the Sub-Mariner, the original Human Torch has had only a small presence in the post-1950s Marvel comic books and is closely associated with the Golden Age.