Experimental British Sun Helmet

[Stuart Bates]

I have just acquired this experimental sun helmet dated 1896. There are only two known survivors - the other being posted on the Wolseley Helmets topic started by Peter Suciu.

The owner of that one states:

"It is the only rank and file quality helmet ever found with the makers name of Hawkes & Company, of 14 Piccadilly, within it. The company is not known ever to have named another rank and file helmet.

The experimental helmet had less of a peak and a much flatter nape. It also had considerable height taken out of the crown.

Trialled in Sheffield and Manchester, this experimental helmet was unpopular on grounds of styling, the men disliked it."

Here is a side shot:

[Stuart Bates]

Here is the interior

[Stuart Bates]

And here is a top view

[Stuart Bates]

I am not at all surprised that it was disliked by the soldiery. Let's face it, it is a rather ugly helmet with Germanic styling which would not have gone down well with the British.

I have no idea why the rippling to the sides, and it would appear to give no more protection from the sun than the Colonial pattern helmet (Zulu & Boer war) which it was meant to replace. And the steep front brim would not have overcome the criticism of the Colonial's front peak causing problems when the men were firing their rifles in the prone position.

The removal of the side rosettes, chinchain and the ventilator cap is probably explained by the fact that these could be re-used.

This example was found in garage in the village of Banwell, Somerset, UK.

However, I am very pleased to have obtained it and just as pleased to share.

Stuart

Edited February 27, 2010 by Stuart Bates

[Chris Boonzaier]

I have no idea why the rippling to the sides,

I would imagine the slight dip was for the ears?

[Stuart Bates]

Chris,

could very well be so!

Stuart

[Chris Boonzaier]

Chris,

could very well be so!

Stuart

Having spent many years admiring the various shades of red/pink/brown that british ears turn in the African sun... I would bet on it.... :-)

[Stuart Bates]

Well, I guess the "ears" have it :-)

Stuart

[Stuart Bates]

What regiments were stationed around "Sheffield and Manchester" in 1896?

Stuart