Summary

Light brown leather motoring helmet, made by Simpson's Gloves Factory, Richmond, Victoria, 1950-1959. Found in large glove storeroom downstairs at Simpson's Glove Factory.

Simpson's Gloves Pty Ltd was established in Victoria St, Richmond, in 1924. It manuufactured leather gloves, coats, handbags, helmets and associated leather goods in response to market demands, largely for an up-market clientele. The company first operated in Smith Street, and subsequently Alexandra Parade, Collingwood, relocating to Victoria Street, Richmond in 1928, where it remained until it was sold in 1988. The large proportion of its employees were women.

Museum Victoria's Simpson's Glove Collection covers all aspects involved in the process of manufacturing, from design and cutting to the machine work and the sales and marketing of the finished products. The collection documents many industrial and social issues.

Physical Description

Light brown leather helmet lined with half kangaroo fur and brown cotton sheen. Peak on front of cap. Fur-lined neckpiece and ear flaps; four-piece crown; double leather peak; small ear flaps secured on outside with press studs concealing air holes for ears; dark brown sateen lining; chin strap with square metal buckle.

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