South African Helmet

[Mervyn Mitton]

The SA Police were formed in 1913 - from a mix of small forces, many of which had sprung-up after the Boer War. There were two patterns of helmets - the first similar to a British helmet in shape and with a similar helmet plate. This is the 2nd. pattern - dating fom the 1930's to just after the 2nd. WW. Because of the SA habit of giving items like this to the gardener, not many have survived - however, the plates are available.

Mervyn

[sabrigade]

Hi Mervyn,

I have a different variant used during the 1922 Johannesburg strike, dating can also be done using the specific badge on the helmet. I will post it as soon as I receive the photographs from home. Keep the posts coming!

Regards,

Will

[Mervyn Mitton]

Dear Will

I don't know how you find the time - between the largest private collection I know of ... and - work ! I would very much like to see your helmet - I know of the strike, but not of a variant in style. Keep well.

Mervyn

[sabrigade]

This is one of the similar helmets I have in my collection. The major difference is the Helmet Plate which is a white metal version. This very rare helmet plate was only worn by Native Constables from 1913 to 1926. It is Number 1897 in Colin Owen's definitive book on Military Badges for Southern Africa.

[sabrigade]

A close-up of the Helmet Plate.