2018.002.024 [Mask, Gas]

This is a Gummimaske type gas mask used by the German Army to defend against chemical weapons during the First World War. It consists of a tightly woven canvas face covering with two circular glass viewports rimmed with metal frames. Head straps attached to the back of the canvas face covering would have secured the mask to the wearer's head tight enough to form a seal. The bottom of the mask forms a funnel shape which terminates in a large circular respiration canister. This canister is made of a dark metal with a perforated plate on the bottom to allow for air to pass into and out of the mask. Inside this canister, a filter would have been fitted. The cannister and the upper portion of the mask are separated by a large patch of cloth. There is a shoddily applied line of pine sealant along the edges of the canvas cover, as seen in similar gas masks of the era; it was believed to be a cheap and effective method of creating a better air-tight seal. There is a crack in the left-hand lens of the mask, probably from wear or improper handling. Gummimaske type masks were produced by Germany during the First World War to protect soldiers from weaponized chemicals such as phosgene gas. Phosgene was the most commonly used chemical weapon during the war, as it would sink to the ground and linger for long periods of time, asphyxiating any living creatures. This type of mask was known for its rubberized interior lining, which helped provide a seal against chemical gasses. However, as the British naval blockade of Germany was prolonged, the German Army was forced to economize in the construction of many areas of warfare production. Due to a shortage of rubber imports, the Gummimaske was replaced by the Lederschutzmaske, which was constructed of a leather base instead of a rubberized one. This improved design also afforded greater protection against chemical attacks. This content can be used with the following resources: SS.4.25: Technological Change This content can be used to educate students on the advacement of chemical weapons technology during the First World War and the impacts that such advancement had on the lives of American servicemen. For any use other than instructional resources, please check with the organization that owns this item for any copyright restrictions.