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ca. 1916 DUST GOGGLES AS USED BY PERSHING’S TROOPS
IN MEXICO DURING THE PUNITIVE EXPEDITION: While
dust goggles were not an item of issue to the soldiers
in the US Army at the turn of the 20th
Century, it is well known that the troops and officers
purchased goggles that were currently available on the
civilian market. Particularly popular with the troops
stationed in the arid Southwest and with those who were
involved in the Punitive Expedition into Mexico in 1916,
the manufacturers made every effort to attract this
market. This is evidenced by this set of very nice dust
goggles manufactured by Willson & Co., complete with the
original tin case that still retains its original OD
Green paint and subdued labeling, obviously made
expressly for the military market. According to
The Buyer’s Guide 1905-1906, Thomas’ Register of
American Manufacturers, the Willson & Co. was
producing optics and spectacles, and was located in
Reading, Pennsylvania.
The goggles are in very good condition with clear,
intact lenses free of any heavy scratches. On the
outside edge of both lenses is attached a folding screen
made of very fine wire mesh to prevent debris from being
blown into the side of the eye. These side screens are
both intact with no tears to the screen and both freely
move without being loose or worn. The frames are
undamaged and full form, made of a light silver metal,
and are still bright with only minor points of wear
visible. The inside edge of the eyepieces and the edges
of the side screens are covered with light leather which
is still intact with only the slightest discoloring due
to wear. The folding side arms are both intact and
functional. The cotton headstrap is present, full
length and in very good condition with no stringing or
fraying due to wear. The bridge between the two lenses
is marked on the inside surface “WILLSON”, as is the lid
of the tin case. The case is full form showing no
damage and only minor handling dents in the lid. The
surface of the case still retains 98% of the original OD
Green/Brown paint and all of the company labeling is
present and fully legible.
This set has survived in remarkable condition and will
be an excellent addition to your collection to display
with your other Punitive Expedition accoutrements. $150
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