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Place of Use Continent - North America, Country - Canada
Category Tools and equipment for science and technology
Sub-category Regulative and protective tools and equipment
Department Dress and Insignia
Museum CWM
Brand Name / Model Gas Respirator, Small Box Type
Inscription (mask/masque): SETTEN & DURWARD BIRMINGHAM; (carrier/sac): WARNING & GILLOW LTD 19... (broad arrow) /| 167; CAPT T. W. MACDOWELL 38TH BATTALION C.E.F.
Materials Rubber, Glass, Cotton
Service Component Canadian Expeditionary Force
Unit 38th Canadian Infantry Battalion
Measurements Height 13.2 cm, Length 58.6 cm, Width 23.2 cm

Caption Small Box Respirator
Additional Information The small box respirator, developed in late 1916, was the most effective gas mask issued to Allied troops during the war. Uncomfortable to wear and a severe impediment to breathing, it nevertheless protected against most forms of gas, except in extremely high concentrations. The wearer breathed in the poisoned air through the metal canister filled with charcoal and chemical agents to absorb the gas. Purified air then went through the rubber hose and into the wearer's mouth. Lieutenant-Colonel Thain Wendell wore this respirator. He was awarded the Victoria Cross at the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917.