These Abercrombie and Fitch mosquito head nets were among the gear Charles Lindbergh and his wife, Anne Morrow Lindbergh, took on their 1931 flight to the Orient and 1933 survey flights across the North and South Atlantic. As they flew through western Africa, the Amazon Jungle, and other mosquito-infested areas, the Lindberghs wore these head nets whenever their beds were not covered with netting.

Since the Lindberghs were traveling through some of the most remote regions on earth, contracting malaria would have likely been fatal. They thus had to take several measures to protect themselves against mosquitoes and other insects. In addition to head nets, they carried a mosquito-proof tent, insecticide spray, citronella oil (an insect repellant), and quinine pills (used to treat malaria).

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Date

1931-1933

Type

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear

Manufacturer

Abercrombie & Fitch Co.

Physical Description

One green mosquito net with a lace on the bottom of the net to secure the bag around the individual's head. Fromerly, two of these were cataloged under one number, see also A20030079049 .

Dimensions

3-D (On pith helmet): 66 × 34.3 × 21.6cm (2 ft. 2 in. × 1 ft. 1 1/2 in. × 8 1/2 in.)
3-D (Overall length on helmet including drawstring): 73.7cm (2 ft. 5 in.)
3-D (without helmet): 67.3 × 34.3 × 21.6cm (2 ft. 2 1/2 in. × 1 ft. 1 1/2 in. × 8 1/2 in.)

Materials

Cotton, thread

Inventory Number

A20030079027

Credit Line

Transferred from the USAF Museum

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.