Offered here is a well-cared for, highly sought after, and rare example of an original World War I era U.S. Army Air Service hard leather flight helmet identified to a World War I aviator. The helmet is constructed out of stiff leather. Attached to the helmet is a leather apron which covered the pilot’s neck. The interior is lined in a soft cotton canvas and fabric mesh covers the ear holes. The top of the helmet has the reinforcing leather cross. Although unmarked, it has all the hallmarks of a Spalding manufactured flight helmet. Spalding was the foremost supplier of American flight gear, including flight helmets, leather jackets, and flight suits well into the 1930s. The name “Cecil C. Wooley” is hand marked on the top and lining of the helmet. The Lane County Historical Museum has within its collection a photo of a Curtis Jenny biplane piloted by Cecil C. Wooley and the photo was taken at the Eugene, Oregon, airport circa 1920. According to the historical society, Wooley was “an aviator in the first World War” and after the war Wooley flew adventure seekers in a Jenny owned by a local realtor and an owner of a local manufacturing company. Passengers were charged $15 for a 15 minute plane ride. The first paying customer even had the thrill of a few loops. The enterprise proved successful as within the first 6 weeks of operations the Jenny was paid for. It was reported that during the county fair they earned $300 to $400 a day. Operations were short lived as in 1920 the aircraft burned. This Jenny was the first plane locally owned in Eugene. Includes period tinted goggles and flight helmet skull cap. Provenance: The Putnam Green/Sycamore Collection

Fine with several tears on the apron’s lining, otherwise minor wear overall. These helmets are extremely difficult to find in any condition. This is a standout piece of early American military aviation well deserving of the finest collection.