WWI Trench Whistle
- Scope and content:
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One WWI US issue brass trench whistle. The whistle has acquired a dark brown patina, and retains its original cork bead and chain. The top of the whistle bears the manufacturing mark of the Horstmann Company of Philadelphia, PA. The whistle is very heavy for its size, and is connected to the chain via a small decorative nub and keyring. The attached chain terminates in a sturdy bronze belt hook. Whistles were issued to men in the treches during WWI in order to serve as a means of communication. Officers would be briefed on a large coordinated attack, and then at the appropriate time would blow their whistles to alert everyone within earshot to charge over the trench. These whistles were one of the only reliable forms of organizing an attack in mass because of the ability to intercept radio and the need for telegraph lines to be laid to facilitate communication in that manner. Transferred from the Hall Family Papers (Mss 90H14). Located in Dec Obj S2 SS2, Box 3. Mss 90H14.A16b
Access and use
- Location of collection:
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Special Collections Research CenterEarl Gregg Swem LibraryCollege of William and Mary400 Landrum DrivePO 8795Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795
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