WWI U.S. Army M1917 SBR Gas Mask Respirator Bag with Contents Identified to Pvt. Watson W. Williams

Description

This original WWI U.S. Army M1917 small box respirator (SBR) gas mask bag is identified to Private Watson W. Williams, 2873471. View the Veteran's Information section for more details regarding Williams' life and military service. The bag is constructed of OD#3 (khaki) webbing and is stenciled with Williams' ID. Inside the bag is a Canco manufactured filter. Its yellow paint indicates protective qualities against both gas and smoke. Also included is an instructions booklet which shows Williams was issued this piece on September 30, 1918. Lastly, the bag contains a coiled piece of steel wire, upon which the filter rests.

Provenance

Personal Collection of Chelius Carter

Condition Report

For being well over 100 years old, this gas mask bag is in good condition, with a fully intact carrying strap. Unfortunately, the respirator itself is missing.

Veteran's Information

On August 13, 1918, Private Watson W. Williams of Nashville, Tennessee departed Montreal, Canada aboard SS Bhamo as an infantryman in Arkansas' Camp Pike July Automatic Replacement Draft Company #19. While in France, he served in the 161st Infantry Regiment, Company C. At war's end, on February 4, 1919, Williams departed Brest, France for Hoboken, New Jersey aboard USS Huntington. Made available to the new owner below are Williams' wartime travel records.

• Travel Records