Thread: A tiny history question.

I have a WWI issued Hunter & Sons I was actually able to trace to a specific soldier. That is, once I was able to figure out which of the three George Turners who were in one particular battle were the George Turner who was in the correct unit.

More often than not, the records for this sort of thing are incomplete or entirely missing (you can thank the Blitz), but every now and again one is traceable.

Also, at one point I'd dug up the requisition information from the US Government purchasing razors from Clauss corporation for WWI era troops, but I'm having trouble finding that thread now.

Straight razors do not appear to have been common goods for US soldiers in WWI, but they were used, apparently by the Marines.

I have seen references in the past to razors that had their owner's regimental number (or equivalent) marked on to the scales and I know of at least one Canadian example where the razor was reunited with a descendant of the soldier in question via that number. Now, whether that razor was issued officially or whether he took his own overseas or acquired it in the UK before shipping to France and marked the scales to help prevent its disappearance is another question.

Originally Posted by MrZ

First, I am a history teacher...

This had me chuckling: from one historian to another, is there really such a thing as a "tiny question"?

Have seen various Sheffield razors marked " Army Razor" on the blade and "Made for the Army" on John Heiffor razors. Also W&B razors marked M&D (Malitia and Defense) Canada on the blade from the WWI period. I do not know if they were issue or private purchase items.

Bob

JMO, I have seen quite a few straights with the broad arrow cut / stamped into the blade itself. They are usually a medical razor but not all were. I have also seen a few with the mentioned Broad Arrow and W^B on the scales with a numbering also.
As to de, se, the us bought from any and everyone for WWI and WII. Gem Gillette, Autostrop and a few others.
JMO~Richard

This is what I love about SRP. A store house of information is at your fingertips. Thanks to all of you fine gentleman. I knew Voidmonster would have some info, and he did not disappoint. As usual, I am in awe.