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This suit is an example of the early types of diving suits, designed and built by the Diving Equipment and Supply Company, which were the original pressure suits enabling people to work in hostile environments. Full pressure suits enabling pilots and, later, astronauts to survive in high altitudes and space were developed from suits such as this.

It is a single layer, rubberized cotton garment with lead weights to assist descent. Air was pumped from the surface through hoses.

Donated to the National Air and Space Museum by the Washington Navy Yard in 1976.

 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 1916 Country of Origin United States of America Type PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Pressure Suits Manufacturer Diving Equipment & Supply, Co.
 Dimensions Overall: 6ft x 2ft 9in. x 1ft 3in. (182.9 x 83.8 x 38.1cm)
Storage: 4 ft. 6 1/2 in. × 3 ft. 6 1/2 in. × 8 ft. 3 in. (4 ft. 6 1/2 in. × 3 ft. 6 1/2 in. × 8 ft. 3 in.)
 Materials Suit: Cotton canvas, rubber, leather, brass
Harnesses: Leather, brass, lead, wood
Helmet: Brass, aluminium, glass, rubber
Boots: Leather, lead, brass
 Inventory Number A19820098000 Credit Line Donated by the Navy Yard, Washington, DC Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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