Air Mail Pilot’s Coat and Helmet
Lt. James Edgerton flew the mail from Philadelphia to Washington during the first scheduled air mail flight on May 15, 1918. He wore this helmet and coat during that flight. Edgerton left the Army in 1919 and became the Chief of Flying for the U.S. Air Mail Service.
Gift of James C. Edgerton
Display Status
This object is on display in America by Air at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Date
ca. 1918
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear
Physical Description
Civilian Air Mail Pilot's flying helmet; black leather exterior shell with olive drab wool lining; chin strap with button snap; leather flaps with snaps to cover ear holes; old repair to front edge of chin strap and ear holes
Dimensions
Clothing (On Mannequin): 41 × 19 × 25cm (16 1/8 × 7 1/2 × 9 13/16 in.)
Materials
Leather
Wool
Uncharacterized Fabric
Ferrous Alloy
Non-Magnetic White Metal
Plastic
Inventory Number
A19320001001
Credit Line
Donated by Lt. James C. Edgerton
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.
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